Interviewer: Jennifer LeBrun

Don’t you miss the old fashioned comic strips? What if you came across one that wasn’t only funny, but informative and educational? That’s exactly what author and cartoonist Drew Aquilina accomplished with Green Pieces: Green from the Pond Up. Through the main characters, Iggman, Radic, Roc, and Cabby, the reader is made to feel like they are right at home at the pond. Drew has been interested in nature since he was a young boy and always wondered what the animals were thinking while looking at us humans. Green Pieces is written from the animals’ perspective which lends a comical twist to this comic strip. Not only do you follow the four main characters throughout the book, but are also introduced to other animals such as geese, sheep, and deer. These lend a bit of a break in the main story lines that kids and parents alike will appreciate.

Aquilina’s illustrations are unsurpassable. He truly brings to life the animals at the pond. These days, being green is the new “it” thing. Though Green Pieces deals with environmental issues like human waste and pollution, it does so in a way that doesn’t make the reader feel bombarded with “going green” demands. He uses the main characters to bring these issues to light through their eyes.

I can’t say enough good things about Green Pieces: Green from the Pond Up or about Drew Aquilina. This book should be in every home and every classroom across America. It will soon be released in full color which will only further bring these animals to life.

For a daily dose of Green Piece check out www.greenpiecescartoons.com.