"Honu and Hina: A Story of Coexistence," by Patrick Ching and Friends (Naturally Hawaiian Publishing, $15.95), is an educational book focusing on the preservation of native species. Despite the vibrant illustrations that appeal to early readers, the subject matter is more suitable for those old enough to read by themselves.

The tale demonstrates how humans live among the monk seals and Hawaiian green sea turtles with an emphasis on the dangers that both island creatures face.

Ching lived among the seals and turtles in protected atolls in the Northwestern Hawaiian Islands when he served as a volunteer and later a ranger for the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.

The artwork in the book was a collaborative effort with art students and animal lovers, Ching said. "A lot of people put their love into the book," he said.

Some professional artists joined in the effort, including Evelin Kekesi, Dawn Lundquist, Mazzarella and Patrizia Arroyo.

"It was such a good experience, I intend to create more books this way," Ching said.