I'm so excited to share a beautiful, important children's book with you today. Written by Dr. Rick LeCouteur, Nasty Names Are Hurtful: An Australian White Ibis in the City is a story of wildlife, environmental refugees, and kindness and understanding.

Despite her graceful nature, an Australian white ibis named Penny endures relentless mockery and name-calling from fellow birds who label her “bin chicken” and “picnic pirate” because of her scavenging behavior in urban settings. Concealing her emotions, Penny reflects on the circumstances that forced her family into the city, yearning for their lost wetland home.

This poignant narrative highlights the repercussions of human intervention on wildlife and underscores the importance of empathy and acceptance. Through Penny’s resilient journey, young readers learn valuable lessons about embracing differences and the far-reaching impact of thoughtless behavior. Nasty Names Are Hurtful is an interesting exploration of resilience and compassion, resonating with readers of all ages.

I love this book for so many reasons: the art, the kindness, the education, the wildlife, the anti-bullying, and, of course, the ways we can grow and change this world to become better for all of us. It teaches us to look behind what we see, and problem solve.

I've read it many times, and can't stop thinking about how important it is, and how much we can learn about wildlife and living more peacefully with all living beings.

Highly, highly recommended!

Based on a childhood spent immersed in the rustic charm of rural Australia, Rick’s love for animals blossomed into a lifelong career as a veterinary educator, conservation photographer, and advocate for animal well-being.

Currently, as director of education for a company dedicated to introducing people to the wonders of wildlife in remote locations, Rick shares his love and knowledge of animals with enthusiasts of all ages.

Through the telling of stories crafted to inspire love, understanding, and advocacy for wildlife, Rick’s journey has evolved beyond clinics and teaching, into the enchanting realm of children's literature. Through his stories about animals, Rick seeks to cultivate in young readers a sense of curiosity, empathy, and responsibility toward the natural world.

Moreover, Rick’s narratives serve as a clarion call for environmental stewardship in the face of climate challenges. Rick believes that by nurturing young minds with the mystery and fascination of animals, we can sow the seeds of compassion and a deep reverence for the delicate balance of life on our planet. Through his stories and illustrations, Rick hopes to kindle imagination in young hearts and to inspire a new generation of animal lovers and conservationists.

We were lucky enough to talk with Dr. Rick LeCouteur and ask him about the book, inspiration, and more. Here's what he had to say...

Please tell us about your new book, Nasty Names Are Hurtful…
My new book, Nasty Names Are Hurtful, focuses on the impact of words, especially when used in a hurtful way. The story follows a young protagonist who experiences the sting of name-calling and learns how words can deeply affect both the person speaking to them and the one receiving them. Throughout the book, I emphasize themes of empathy, kindness, and the power of language to heal or hurt.

This picture book is aimed at teaching children how to manage difficult emotions and stand up against bullying, while encouraging positive, compassionate communication. The colorful illustrations, paired with a simple yet powerful narrative, create an accessible and engaging story for young readers. Like my previous works, it reflects a blend of moral lessons and engaging storytelling that I hope will resonate with both children and adults.

What inspired you to write this book?
The inspiration for Nasty Names Are Hurtful came from witnessing how words, whether intentionally or unintentionally, can leave lasting emotional scars, especially on young minds. I wanted to address the issue of bullying, which often starts with name-calling, in a way that would resonate with children and help them understand the power of their words. 

As someone who grew up surrounded by educators and having experienced both the positive and negative sides of communication, I felt compelled to create a story that could open discussions about kindness, empathy, and the emotional consequences of bullying. I also wanted to provide children with the tools to stand up for themselves and others in situations where hurtful language is used, showing that they have the power to make a positive difference through their actions and words.

The book is my way of contributing to a more compassionate and understanding world, starting with the younger generation.

I LOVE how anti-bullying and informative this book is! How can parents and caregivers best teach using this book?
I’m thrilled you appreciate the anti-bullying message of Nasty Names Are Hurtful. It was important to me that this book could be both a tool for enjoyment and a resource for learning. 

Here are a few ways parents and caregivers can use the book to teach and engage with children on this important topic:

Create Open Conversations

After reading the book, parents can ask children questions like:
o "How did the character feel when they were called names?"
o "Have you ever been in a situation like this?"
o "What do you think we should do if we hear someone being called names?"
o These questions can prompt children to reflect on their own experiences and express their feelings, giving parents insights into what their children are going through and opening the door for empathy-based conversations.

Role-Playing Exercises

Parents, teachers and caregivers can role-play scenarios from the book or similar situations. By taking turns being the one who calls names and the one who responds, children can explore how hurtful words feel and practice standing up to bullies or seeking help. It’s a great way to develop emotional awareness and resilience.

Highlight Positive Communication

Use the book as an opportunity to teach about positive alternatives to name-calling. For example, parents can point out times in the book when the characters could have used encouraging or supportive language instead. Then, they can encourage children to try replacing negative words with positive ones in their own interactions.

Empathy-building Activities

After reading the book, caregivers can help children imagine how different characters might feel and why. They could draw pictures of the characters before and after hearing hurtful words or write down kind things the characters might have said instead. This will help children see how words can change a person’s emotional state.

Teach Conflict Resolution

The book provides a model for handling difficult situations with words instead of aggression. Parents can discuss how the character dealt with name-calling and brainstorm other ways they could have handled the situation, emphasizing peaceful conflict resolution and communication skills.

Incorporate Real-life Examples

When parents witness real-life examples of name-calling, bullying, or even hurtful words on TV or in social settings, they can refer to the lessons in the book, reinforcing that hurtful words have real consequences and that it’s important to speak kindly.

By using the book as a teaching tool, parents and caregivers can foster a more thoughtful, compassionate approach to communication that helps children navigate conflicts and stand up against bullying in a constructive way.

The illustrations are spot on. What is your art background/interest, and what do you hope readers take away from the illustrations?
I’m glad you found the illustrations to be spot on. My interest in art, particularly when it comes to illustrating animals and emotional experiences, comes from my background in wildlife photography and my work creating digital art based on my own original photos. I’ve always had a deep fascination with capturing the authenticity of the natural world, and this carries over into my children's books. I strive for my illustrations to be “realistic” rather than “whimsical”, allowing the characters' expressions and emotions to feel as genuine as possible.

In Nasty Names Are Hurtful, I wanted the illustrations to reflect the very real emotional journey of the main character, without over-embellishing or venturing into the whimsical. This authentic approach allows readers to connect with the story on a deeper level, making the impact of hurtful words and the healing power of kindness feel more relatable and grounded. The emotions and body language of the characters are intentionally subtle yet powerful, so children can see themselves or others in the story and understand the weight of their actions.

I hope readers, especially children, take away the idea that the feelings and experiences of the characters are true to life. By using a more authentic illustration style, I want to emphasize that the lessons in the book - about empathy, kindness, and the impact of words - are applicable in their everyday lives. This realism also gives the story more weight, helping children to take the message seriously while still engaging with the story on an emotional level.

How can kids learn more about the Australian white ibis?
Learning about the Australian white ibis can be a fun and educational experience for kids!

Here are some engaging ways to introduce children to this fascinating bird, often referred to as the "bin chicken" in Australia:

Books and Educational Materials

There are many wildlife books and children's picture books focused on Australian birds, including the ibis. Look for illustrated books that provide factual information, photos, or engaging stories about the ibis' habitat, behavior, and role in the environment.

Nature Walks and Bird Watching

If possible, take children on a bird-watching adventure in parks or wetland areas where ibises are often found. Encourage them to observe the ibis’ behaviors - its foraging habits, long curved beak, and unique walking style. Kids can take notes or draw pictures of the ibis in their natural environment.

Online Educational Videos

There are kid-friendly documentaries and educational YouTube videos that explore the ibis and its role in the ecosystem. Watching these can help kids learn about the bird's adaptations, including why it has been nicknamed the "bin chicken" due to its foraging in urban areas.

Interactive Apps and Websites

Many websites and apps offer interactive resources for kids to learn about birds. Apps like "The Aussie Bird Count" or websites like “BirdLife Australia” allow kids to explore more about the white ibis and its place in Australian ecosystems.

Fun Facts and Crafts

Teach kids fun facts about the ibis, such as:
o The ibis has adapted well to urban environments, which is why it's often seen near garbage bins or in parks.
o Despite its reputation as a "bin chicken," the ibis is a native bird and plays an important role in controlling pests in wetlands.
o After learning some facts, kids can create fun art projects, like making their own paper ibis using recycled materials or drawing ibis in its natural and urban environments.

Visit a Zoo or Wildlife Sanctuary

Many zoos or wildlife sanctuaries have ibis or provide information about them. A visit to such places can give children a close-up view of ibis, helping them learn more about the bird’s habitat, diet, and conservation needs.

By using a mix of fun activities, nature experiences, and educational tools, children can develop a deep appreciation for the Australian white ibis, and other species of ibis around the world, and learn more about its role in both the natural and urban environments.

How can readers find your work?
Readers can find my work through various platforms. Here are the best ways to stay connected:

I have a dedicated website where readers can explore my books, digital art, and updates on upcoming projects. It serves as a hub for everything related to my work, including blog posts, events, and behind-the-scenes insights into my creative process. https://www.ricklecouteur.com

I’m active on several social media platforms where I share updates, artwork, and engage with readers. Here’s where you can follow me:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/richard-le-couteur-61294218/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ricklecouteur/

My books, including Nasty Names Are Hurtful and others, are available for purchase through major online retailers such as Bookshop, Barnes & Noble, and Amazon.

Many independent and local bookstores carry my books, and they can often be ordered if not in stock. I encourage readers to check with their favorite local bookstore.

By connecting through any of these platforms, readers can explore my work, engage with my art, and stay updated on future releases!

What's up next for you?

My next book is about the unlikely friendship between a red-billed oxpecker and a rhinoceros.

The storyline is as follows:
In the heart of the African savanna, an unlikely friendship flourishes between a red-billed oxpecker (aka. “tick bird”) and a rhinoceros. At first glance, their connection seems purely transactional - the oxpecker rids the rhino of ticks and parasites, while the giant provides the bird with food. But over time, their bond reveals something deeper, a relationship rooted in trust and interdependence. The oxpecker, perched on the rhino’s thick skin, serves as a lookout, alerting the rhino to approaching danger with its sharp calls. This small act of vigilance strengthens the connection between them, as the rhinoceros, usually solitary and slow to trust, begins to rely on its feathered companion for more than just pest control.

Their friendship grows in ways that reflect a deeper, mutual respect. The rhinoceros, a creature of immense strength and size, could easily flick the bird away, but instead, it allows the oxpecker to roam freely across its body. This level of trust is a rare thing in the wild, where survival often demands skepticism and self-reliance. Yet, the oxpecker remains, its bright red beak a sign of the symbiotic bond they share. The rhinoceros tolerates the bird’s persistent picking and even seems to welcome it, understanding that this tiny creature provides a vital service that contributes to its well-being.

In a world often defined by competition and survival of the fittest, the relationship between the oxpecker and the rhinoceros is a reminder that friendships can thrive even among the most unlikely of pairs. Their connection, built on trust and the understanding that each has something valuable to offer the other, highlights the beauty of cooperation in the natural world. Through their bond, the two creatures not only help each other survive but also illustrate the power of friendship, where even the smallest of allies can make the biggest difference.

Is there anything else you'd like to share?
Yes. My motivation for writing children’s picture books.

I write children's picture books because I have a deep passion for storytelling that brings together my love for animals, the environment, and education. Growing up in a family of educators, I’ve always been inspired by the power of stories to teach, nurture, and open young minds to the wonders of the natural world. With my background in veterinary medicine and wildlife photography, I have a unique perspective that allows me to share meaningful, real-life connections between animals and their environments, making my stories both educational and engaging. I see picture books as the perfect way to introduce children to the beauty of nature and instill in them a sense of wonder, respect, and empathy for animals.

When I write, I ground my stories in realism, using authentic illustrations and relatable characters that I hope resonate with children. Drawing on my experiences with wildlife and environmental conservation, I strive to inspire curiosity and compassion through the animal protagonists in my books. I also love exploring themes like trust, friendship, and cooperation, believing that these values will stay with young readers long after they've finished the story.

Ultimately, I write children's picture books because I believe in the potential of young readers to change the world. Through my stories, I hope to give them the knowledge and inspiration they need to make a positive impact on the world around them.