The Nature of Change: Lessons of Determination, Resilience, and Hope from the Outside World

From CNN national correspondent and children's book author René Marsh comes a poetic and heartfelt book about two siblings who learn how to navigate a difficult life change while still holding on to hope. The Nature of Change is perfect for any reader ages 4 to 8 who needs encouragement and wisdom in the face of a challenge, big or small.

When Kit and Amal wake up in their new house, they can't help but notice how different everything is. Mom and Dad say that change is a part of life, though that does not make it any easier. But as Kit and Amal explore the woods in their backyard, they notice how different parts of the natural world--from big trees to tiny spiders to climbing morning glories--navigate life's changes with determination, resilience, and hope.

Written after losing her first child to brain cancer and finding solace in the natural world surrounding her, CNN national correspondent and author René Marsh shows readers that even the darkest moments can eventually bloom beautiful things.

The Nature of Change is:

• ideal for readers ages 4-8
• written by CNN national correspondent and children's book author René Marsh
• perfect for tough situations such as loss, divorce, moving, and other major life changes

Author: René Marsh
Publisher: Zonderkidz
Published: 03/10/2026
Pages: 32
Binding Type: Hardcover
Weight: 0.95lbs
Size: 11.11h x 9.14w x 0.48d
ISBN: 9780310168355
Audience: Ages 4-8


Review Citation(s):
Publishers Weekly 02/23/2026

About the Author
Marsh, René: -

René Marsh is an Emmy-nominated CNN correspondent who has been writing and telling stories as a journalist for more than two decades. René was inspired to start writing children's books in order to raise awareness and funding for pediatric cancer research after her late son, Blake, was diagnosed with brain cancer at nine months old. Her first book, The Miracle Workers: Boy vs. Beast, was featured on the Today show, ABC, and CNN. All proceeds from the book were donated to pediatric brain cancer research. René resides in the D.C. metro area with her husband and daughter.

Gardiyawasam, Pumudi: - Pumudi Gardiyawasam was born and raised in Sri Lanka and is currently based in Toronto, Canada. She is a self-taught, digital children's book illustrator. As a child, she was passionate about both art and nature, which led her to a degree in zoology. But she never lost her passion for art. In 2019, she made the career change to become a full-time children's book illustrator. Pumudi looks to combine her natural art talent with what she learned in university to educate young children about nature and its importance, leading younger generations toward making a better world for all living beings. When she is not drawing, Pumudi loves experimental cooking, hiking, camping, reading books, and watching movies with her husband.