Writing
fiction &
non-fiction
Instructions for living a life.
Pay attention.
Be astonished.
Tell about it.
―
Kristina Lyn Heitkamp
children’s author, plein air writer, and environmental journalist
Children's Author
As a children’s author of fiction and non-fiction, Kristina wholeheartedly embraces the transformative magic of storytelling, crafting narratives that engage young readers while nurturing a lifelong passion for books. She has written and edited 19 non-fiction titles on topics ranging from ancient history to science and technology for Rosen Publishing, Britannica Educational, Enslow Publishing, Red Line Editorial, and Greenhaven Publishing. She has written articles for the magazines Odyssey, Muse, and Faces. Kristina’s work hopes to spark creativity and curiosity, inviting children to adventure and imagine, to question and challenge, and to find their own voice in new worlds.
Plein Air Writer
Plein air is French for “open air” and was a popular art movement in the early nineteenth century. Artists would bring their paints, canvases, and brushes to the great outdoors to create artwork from life. In the way that plein air artists produce paintings, Kristina plein air writes stories. Plein air writing invites the world to unfurl its stories in the embrace of nature. Just as artists capture light and life on canvas, Kristina immerses herself in the vibrant landscapes around her. Each outdoor adventure reveals not just the beauty of the environment but also the connections we share with it, inspiring tales that celebrate the wild spirit of our natural world. Through her journey, readers are invited to wander alongside her and discover the wonders that lie waiting just beyond the ordinary.
Environmental Journalist
After earning a graduate degree in environmental journalism, Kristina has dedicated herself to fostering a deeper and more meaningful connection between the environment and society at large. Her notable efforts encompass a range of initiatives, including bison conservation efforts aimed at protecting these majestic creatures, as well as promoting sustainable living practices that encourage individuals and communities to reduce their ecological footprints. Kristina is passionate about artivism, a unique blend of art and activism that she utilizes to raise awareness about environmental issues and inspire positive change. Kristina has also contributed her research expertise to National Geographic Books.
Portfolio
[This book] has filled a niche that is unfortunately much needed at this time … The book has already been used by groups of teachers and students in schools where anti-Semitic incidents have taken place, and will surely be important to keep on hand, given the current prevalence of hate crimes.
Summer 2017, my partner and I traveled to nine public lands across Utah, inspiring dialogue about the relationship between public lands and the arts. The project highlighted the inherent value of public lands to the arts.
Contact Kristina!
Latest Blog Posts
Clean Air: Utah
Salt Lake City I had the opportunity to flex my artivism muscle. Honored to be a contributor to this important project, but my favorite story is by a 5th grader named Gracie. “I feel sad when the air hurts me, but we are hurting it.” Thanks, Torrey...
Plein Air Public Lands: Day 27
Grand Staircase Escalante After a morning of fighting the internet connection, we packed up our final Days Inn camp spot and said goodbye forever. Or at least for now. Expired Goldfish and Water Over the mountain and through Dixie Forest, we drove our way to Grand...
Plein Air Public Lands: Day 26
Torrey area I couldn’t wait to get inside the truck this morning. Like waiting in a theater to see your favorite band play a show, I was eager to see Rex’s nocturne painting from the night before. From I could see, I really liked the composition but it was difficult...
Plein Air Public Lands: Day 25
Capitol Reef I got up before the sunrise, put on my pink hat and fleece, and was happy for it. I enjoyed the cool of the high desert morning, like a splash of cold water to wake you for the day. Rex whipped up a dark roast French press and hash browns with chives,...
Plein Air Public Land: Day 24
Capitol Reef As Rex walked back from his usual sunrise painting session, I noticed he picked up a hitchhiker along the way. Hitchhikers A common sagebrush lizard hitched a ride on Rex’s plein air backpack and then climbed upon his back. “Lizzie” got off at the end...
Plein Air Public Lands: Day 23
Capitol Reef I opened my eyes this morning with much pride and excitement. In the early morning hours, Rex had created a beautiful 18 x 24 plein air painting. He had been anxious and a bit nervous to tackle such a large canvas, but I reminded him of his recent 4 x...
