The Stuff of Childhood Dreams

When I was a kid, I did not walk to school in the snow uphill both ways. However, I did like dinosaurs and subscribe to Ranger Rick, the magazine from the National Wildlife Federation (NWF).

That's why a new development in the Ranger Rick offerings made me think what a wonderful opportunity children today have.

Earlier this month, the NWF announced that it would begin publishing a Ranger Rick dedicated to just dinosaurs. My childhood self jumped for joy at this news because I knew many kids would love the magazine as much as I would have if it had been around when I was growing up.

Ranger Rick Dinosaurs will join Ranger Rick, Ranger Rick Jr., Ranger Rick Cub, and three Zoobooks in the NWF's list of magazines for kids. I think it's a great addition to a lineup that is already very strong, and I hope a lot of children have a chance to read it.

For this magazine, I would definitely walk in the snow uphill both ways.

The Ranger's New House

Just like any other raccoon, the National Wildlife Federation's Ranger Rick is adaptable.

I grew up reading printed issues Ranger Rick magazine. They were a special part of my childhood and helped shape my connection to the environment. I remember loading my bookshelf with the old issues.

In the digital age, publishing has changed a lot, and the wily ranger is adjusting to those changes. The magazine has a digital version available for tablets through Barnes & Noble. And now, a new, interactive version is available for the iPad.

The interaction and reading takes place in Ranger Rick's tree house. Children can play games, earn badges, and learn about wildlife.

It's great to see one of my favorite raccoons settling in nicely to the 21st century. I know he'll be around to touch the lives of many more children.