This image is the cover for the book The Heron’s Message

The Heron’s Message

A little girl’s transformation through a walk in the woods opens a glimpse into nature’s gifts of excitement, peacefulness, and joy. Ava often feels that everyone else knows what they are supposed to be doing except her! She feels alone and doesn’t fit in with her classmates. One day she looks for a heron by the stream. Will Ava find the heron and understand the heron’s message?


The Heron’s Message helps children relish observing and being outdoors. It offers a doorway into contentment and connection to nature's creatures. Ava’s journey to find the heron releases something deep within herself. Will the heron help her discover her passion and purpose? Will Ava’s journey to the stream to see the heron change her life forever?

Barbara Neiman

Barbara Neiman often takes her daughter and her dog for hikes in the forests and mountains nearby, and they enjoy the beauty of the woods. An occupational therapist, Barbara believes that enjoying the sights and sounds of nature is a good way to manage stress and quiet the mind. She is also concerned about children’s loss of outdoor playtime, and her story inspires them to get outside and observe, connect, and be excited by nature! Barbara is the author of three workbooks about mindfulness, yoga, and adoption. She lives in the Hudson Valley in New Paltz, NY.