Inspired by the groundbreaking conservation work of Jane Goodall, late author and activist Claudia Clark leaves behind a meaningful legacy with her children’s book, Hannah’s Call to Care: How One Girl Discovered the Power of Protecting Wildlife. Released following her passing in December 2025, the book continues her mission of encouraging young people to engage with and protect the natural world.
Written for readers ages 10 to 14, the story centers on Hannah, a 12-year-old girl whose life changes when her father brings home an orphaned kangaroo joey. Set in rural New South Wales, Australia, the narrative follows Hannah as she becomes immersed in wildlife rescue, learning firsthand the responsibilities and emotional realities of caring for injured and abandoned animals.
Through her experiences, Hannah is introduced to the practical side of conservation—checking wombat pouches, rescuing a flying fox tangled in barbed wire, and understanding the complexities behind human interactions with wildlife. The story does not shy away from the difficult moments either, including the emotional challenge of letting go when an animal cannot be saved.
Clark’s storytelling draws heavily from real-life accounts shared by Australian wildlife rescuers, giving the book an authenticity that resonates beyond fiction. The inclusion of a practical guide on how to report and assist injured animals across Australia further reinforces its educational value, turning the story into a resource as well as a narrative.
At its core, Hannah’s Call to Care emphasizes that conservation is not limited by age or expertise. Clark believed that compassion is a powerful tool, especially in young people, and that small, intentional actions can create lasting impact. The book reflects that philosophy, encouraging readers to see themselves as capable of contributing to environmental protection in meaningful ways.
Clark’s own life mirrored the values she promoted in her work. With a background in public policy, social work, and history, she dedicated herself to both social justice and animal welfare. Her passion for Australian wildlife, combined with her global perspective, shaped a message that continues to resonate beyond her lifetime.
A portion of the book’s proceeds will be donated to wildlife conservation efforts in Australia, extending Clark’s commitment to protecting vulnerable species and ecosystems.
As environmental challenges continue to grow, Hannah’s Call to Care arrives as both a timely reminder and a call to action—one that invites the next generation to step forward with empathy, awareness, and a willingness to make a difference.