Official Website of Ann McGovern, Popular Children’s Book Author

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Q: Do you ever give programs about your travels?

A: Yes! Hundreds of times, to children in schools. I also have programs for educational conferences, senior centers and nursing homes, Audubon groups and the Explorers Club. I went to China before there were many tourists, and I took many pictures of daily life. Galleries and libraries showed my pictures when I got home.

Q: Do you ever get seasick?

A: Not usually. But on the way to Antarctica, the ship sailed through a stretch of horrible storms.  Waves washed over all six decks of the ship. “Throw-up” bags lined the handrails in the halls.  There wasn’t a person on that ship who wasn’t sick. We were not allowed out of our cabins, and tea … Read more

Q: Are you planning your next trip?

A: I’ve never explored the Amazon River, with its steamy jungles and the animals, birds and reptiles that live there. I would also like to learn about the plants that people use for medicines.  I would like to see the native villages and meet the people.

Q: Would you want to take a penguin home?

A: The penguin would be terribly lonely for its family and its cold home in Antarctica by the sea. Penguins live in colonies with thousands of other penguins. Besides, they smell very fishy.

Q: What is your favorite continent?

A: They are all fascinating.  One of my best travel experiences was camping in Africa, seeing elephant herds, leopards before breakfast and colorful birds so close. We gave a ride up a crater to a Masai warrior who was carrying a sharp spear.  He spoke English and we talked about the music we liked.

Q: Are there any places you haven’t been?

A: Oh yes!  Though I’ve been to all seven continents and over 60 countries, there are many more I haven’t seen. I couldn’t visit all of them in one lifetime, even if I live to be 200 years old.

Q: What are your biggest worries?

A: I am concerned about the world and the state of the earth (75% of the earth is water). I write letters and call politicians.  Many of the books I write reflect my cares. There are organizations for saving the whales, elephants, mountain gorillas, etc. Write to me for lists. The seas and coral reefs … Read more