Jessica Mann Uplift: A Novel Giving Nature a Voice

In this inspiring episode of Chatting with Betsy, host Betsy Wurzel welcomes Jessica Mann, an award-winning writer and Master Naturalist based in Teton Valley, Idaho. Together, they explore Jessica Mann’s latest novel, “Uplift,” a captivating story that gives birds and animals a powerful voice in the natural world. Jessica Mann Uplift celebrates unity, empathy, and respect for all living things.

Through this enchanting tale told from the perspectives of a Nutcracker bird family, a hummingbird, a Belted Kingfisher, a Green Darner dragonfly, a Violet-green Swallow, and a Grizzly bear, readers experience how different species must learn to work together. Jessica and Betsy discuss the themes of communication, compassion, and community support, showing how these lessons apply to both wildlife and humans.

Jessica shares insights into her writing process, her research, and the meaning of anthropomorphism—assigning human traits to animals to deepen connection and understanding. She also touches on how environmental challenges such as deforestation, pollution, and climate change impact not only wildlife but human life as well. These themes make Jessica Mann Uplift a timely and thought-provoking work.

Currently, Jessica is writing two new novels—“Current,” about whales, and “Terra,” about the land. Together, these form The Habitat Trilogy, continuing her mission to bring awareness to nature’s fragile balance. Importantly, Jessica donates proceeds from her books to nonprofits protecting birds and their habitats.

Betsy highly recommends “Uplift” as a unique, beautifully written book that allows readers to see the world through the eyes of animals. It’s an ideal choice for book clubs and nature enthusiasts alike, sparking conversations about connection, kindness, and conservation.

🎙 Listen to Betsy Wurzel and Jessica Mann as they talk about Uplift, a touching novel that gives birds and animals a powerful voice in the natural world. Click here to listen…

👉 Visit Jessica Mann’s website to learn more, sign up for her newsletter.