Joanna Howes is the author of the book “Wild Sierra Nevada: A Family Nature Guide”. The book was released on May 14, 2024. It is illustrated by Reno-based artist Alex Bailey and is published by the Yosemite Conservancy. Wild Sierra Nevada weaves together beautiful illustrations, simple identification keys, and whimsical insights to create an engaging natural history guide for children ages 4-7. As an educator and parent, Joanna believes it is more important than ever that young children have direct sensory experiences with nature that are filled with wonder, beauty, and curiosity. She hopes that this book nurtures children’s connection to the natural world and provides a tool for caregivers who wish to foster meaningful experiences in nature for their children. 

Joanna has taught in Montessori schools for nearly a decade, and most recently was the primary director for a Montessori program. She has a bachelor’s degree in natural history and ecology, as well as a master’s degree in education. Joanna grew up in California’s Bay Area, and her fondest childhood memories include climbing granite boulders and wading in creeks on her family’s annual summer trip to the Sierra Nevada. She now lives in Tahoe Vista, California, with her partner and children. Joanna loves exploring in the woods with her daughters, and you can often find her reading, swimming in alpine lakes, and listening for birdsong. She is also busy working on her next book, about the magic of the stunning Colorado Plateau.