Dune's Big Ears (Hardcover) (ISBN-13: 9781962165105)

DUNE'S BIG EARS

Book 1 in the Dune the Desert Fennec Fox Series

In the Golden Sands Preserve, where desert sun paints dunes in shades of gold, lives Dune-a young fennec fox whose extraordinarily large ears set him apart from every other creature. While others see his oversized ears as unusual, Dune discovers that what makes him different makes him extraordinary.

When desert heat rises and animals seek shelter, Dune's remarkable ears keep him cool and reveal their true power: hearing what others cannot. Beneath shifting sands and beyond wind through sage brush, his ears detect the faintest sounds that tell stories of hidden desert life.

One scorching afternoon, Dune hears desperate footsteps beneath the sand. Following the sound, he discovers a small jerboa, separated from his family by a hawk and hopelessly lost. The jerboa's family lives near three twisted acacia trees, but in a landscape where every dune looks the same, how can he find home?

Using his exceptional hearing, Dune locates the jerboa's worried family and embarks on a journey teaching ancient desert wisdom. As they traverse sun-baked landscape, Dune shares generational secrets: how sand holds water's memory, how to read subtle survival signs, and most remarkably, how to listen for hidden springs sustaining life in harsh environments. Through patient guidance, Dune helps the jerboa discover his own ability to hear beneath the surface.

This beautifully illustrated tale weaves self-acceptance, environmental stewardship, and mentorship themes in a story captivating young readers while offering rich family discussion opportunities. Set against stunning desert ecosystem backdrop, "Dune's Big Ears" introduces children to fascinating desert animals and their remarkable survival adaptations.

The story celebrates that our differences-characteristics making us feel out of place-often contain our greatest strengths. Through Dune's guidance and the jerboa's willingness to learn, readers discover true listening involves hearts, attention, and willingness to perceive hidden connections binding all life.

Perfect for ages 3-8, this debut combines desert ecology facts with timeless friendship, courage, and mentorship lessons. Rich illustrations bring the Golden Sands Preserve to life, from wind-carved dune patterns to expressive animal faces.

"Dune's Big Ears" serves as engaging bedtime story and educational tool, introducing biodiversity, adaptation, and environmental interconnection concepts. The included parent discussion guide offers conversation starters exploring uniqueness, listening skills, and environmental awareness.

This invitation discovers extraordinary in ordinary, celebrates what makes each special, and teaches that in life's vast desert, we all offer something precious when we learn to truly listen.