Through storytelling and colorful illustrations, Emily Louina Cook’s newly released book, “Is That an Åga?” introduces young readers to the wildlife of the Marianas while encouraging a deeper connection to the natural world and the importance of conservation.

According to Nia Tero, the organization that produced the 70-minute documentary, the film hopes to bring more visibility to the particular relationship Micronesian people have with their islands and ocean territory, and increase awareness of the deep wisdom and knowledge that is passed on through the legends, chants, and traditions of these oceanic peoples.

Having some idea of what it takes to run a business and as a novice writer myself, I have developed great respect for what has been accomplished with the PIT. Nothing but hard work, keen insight, exceptional talent and phenomenal connections have contributed to the success of the PIT at a time when there are significant declines and closures in the publishing industry.