One Single Species

Can one single species change an entire ecosystem?

Learn the answer in Susan E. Quinlan’s new book: One Single Species: Why the Connections in Nature Matter which tells the story of Dr. Robert T. Paine’s landmark ecological research on ochre sea stars.

“The beautiful illustrations in this remarkable explanation of one of the most important ecological studies of the 20th century really helps to bring the rocky intertidal ecosystem of the NW coast alive. … Science teachers will find this book particularly useful.” —Victoria Jordan, Middle School Science Teacher, Colorado State University Teacher-in-Residence, National Science Teacher’s Association Distinguished Teacher 2016

Through clear text and vivid, colorful artwork, One Single Species reveals the story of Paine’s important and creative research, along with his surprising findings.

You will…

• Discover a host of curious creatures that live in the rocky intertidal
• Learn that scientific research begins with careful observations and a question
• Follow along as a renowned scientist designs a clever field experiment
• Be surprised by the striking results of his study
• Develop a deeper understanding of the ways all of nature is tied together

"What a vibrant resource for young people to learn the vital role of a keystone species in an ecosystem! … I would use this book with learners of any age, even with adults new to environmental learning, as the beautiful artwork and succinct, accurate text clearly convey a rather abstract concept. " — Janet Carrier Ady, Ph.D., Environmental Educator

This intriguing book brings ecological science to life and inspires you to look more carefully for connections in the natural world. With interesting examples of interconnections among varied species around the world, One Single Species helps develop an appreciation of nature’s remarkable complexity.

“One Single Species is a gem, in its clearly written text and revealing art. … This book will be useful in STEM programs, and there is nothing quite like it in school libraries.” —Laurence Pringle, Author of 120 books for children

A naturalist, author, and artist, Susan E. Quinlan brings a lifetime of nature exploration and learning to all of her writing and illustrations. Quinlan’s previous books for young readers received recognition from the National Science Teachers Association, the International Reading Association, and the Junior Library Guild. Her books include: The Case of the Mummified Pigs and Other Mysteries in Nature, The Monkeys That Fell From the Trees and Other Mysteries in Tropical Nature (both published by Boyds Mills Press), Puffins, and Caribou (published by Carolrhoda Books). Trained as a wildlife biologist, Quinlan obtained degrees from Colorado State University (B.S.) and the University of Alaska (M.S.) She conducted wildlife research in several parts of Alaska, then went on to explore nature in the high arctic tundra, neotropical rainforests, arid deserts and oceanic islands while working as a naturalist guide for Lindblad Expeditions. A passionate conservationist, Quinlan enjoys sharing her love of nature with others through writing, artwork, school programs, and public speaking. She and her husband now live in northern Colorado in a solar-powered home they built themselves.