At Outskirts Press, we are always honored to work with authors whose stories bring something truly unique and meaningful to young readers. Tanja Nayak is one such author; a storyteller, explorer at heart, and passionate advocate for wildlife education. With three beautifully illustrated children’s books under her belt, she has created a literary safari that spans continents and generations.
A Childhood Fueled by Safaris and Storytelling
Born in Johannesburg, South Africa, Tanja’s love for nature began with annual winter safaris in Kruger National Park. That early exposure to the sights and sounds of African wildlife sparked a lifelong fascination, and a mission to share that wonder with others.
Though now living in Colorado, she continues to travel back to South Africa with her husband and daughter when possible, revisiting the landscapes that first stirred her imagination.
As a child, Tanja dreamed of becoming an explorer like Mary Kingsley, the famed Victorian adventurer who traveled extensively through Africa. Looking back, she realizes that in her youth she actually did live out that dream by traveling throughout Southern Africa to remarkable destinations like Victoria Falls, the Namib Desert, Great Zimbabwe, Etosha Pan, and the Skeleton Coast, often under the stars on epic road trips planned by her adventurous father.
The Books: A Journey Through the Wilderness
Tanja has three published books through Outskirts Press, which are:
Stripes’ Busy Night in the Bushveld
Meet Stripes, a brave and determined honey badger navigating the African bush under the cover of night. Inspired by Tanja’s love for nocturnal wildlife, this book was written during the pandemic to serve as a “virtual safari” when real travel wasn’t possible. It’s both an engaging adventure and a subtle call to conservation, featuring civets, genets, and the critically endangered pangolin.
Spot’s Busy Day in the Bushveld
In this vibrant daytime companion to Stripes’ Busy Night, readers follow Spot, an energetic young leopard cub, through a lively day in the African bushveld. As Spot explores the sunlit savanna, he encounters a wide variety of animals in their natural habitats, thus giving readers a fun, educational glimpse into the lives of diurnal species. This book pairs beautifully with Stripes for a full-circle look at 24 hours in the wild.
Ombre’s Spring Day in the Rockies
Tanja’s third book introduces children to a whole different kind of wilderness! Set in the heart of the Rocky Mountains, this charming story follows Ombre, a curious creature experiencing the wonders of springtime in the Colorado wilderness. As the snow melts and new life begins to bloom, Ombre’s gentle journey introduces young readers to the beauty of nature, seasonal change, and the diverse wildlife of North America. A perfect story for nature-loving families and classrooms alike.
Why She Writes
Tanja’s writing is driven by a desire to share joy, curiosity, and respect for nature with children around the world. Her books combine storytelling with scientific facts in a way that’s accessible and inspiring for young readers. She wants kids to experience the awe of nature, even if they’ve never camped under a starry sky.
A Pandemic Project Turned Publishing Triumph
The COVID-19 pandemic was a difficult time for many, but for Tanja, it offered the space and time to channel her creativity into something lasting. Grounded by travel restrictions, she set out to recreate the feeling of being on safari through her writing. The result? A trio of books that have delighted children and parents alike.
“I have published three children’s picture books through Outskirts Press and love all three,” Tanja says. “Everyone was helpful and professional. I would definitely recommend self-publishing through the company if you have always dreamed of becoming an author.”
We’re proud to be part of her publishing journey and can’t wait to see what stories she brings to life next.
Follow Tanja Nayak
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