It doesn’t take a long story to make a lasting impression. Sometimes, just a few pages can help children see others in a new light. Released by the Evin B. Hartsell Foundation, “Evin’s World at the Zoo” is a beautifully illustrated children’s book that introduces young readers to the values Evin lived out: compassion, awareness, and the importance of paying attention to others.
It’s more than just a story. It’s a way to help children, while they’re still young, begin to understand that ability comes in many forms—and that everyone has something to offer.
A Field Trip, A Change of Plans, A Moment of Purpose
In “Evin’s World at the Zoo”, Evin is excited. His class is headed to the zoo and, like any kid, he can’t wait to see his favorite animal.
But the day doesn’t go as planned.
Instead, Evin notices a little girl in trouble and discovers he is able to help in a way others can’t.
It’s a simple story with a powerful message: children with disabilities don’t just need help. They offer it. They bring something valuable to the world around them, something we all benefit from when we take the time to see it.
The book is gentle, age-appropriate, and written to resonate with all children. It opens a door for meaningful conversations at home, in classrooms, and in libraries across the country.
Why This Story Matters
So often, children’s books don’t include characters with disabilities. And when they do, the stories tend to focus on what those characters can’t do. This book is different.
It shows children that there’s more than one kind of strength. That sometimes, the person who quietly notices, who understands because of their own experience, is the one who makes the biggest difference.
“Evin’s World at the Zoo” is about inclusion. It’s about dignity. And it’s about helping children grow in empathy—not through pity, but through respect.
“The story of Evin’s World is powerful because it shows the beauty of the unseen being seen,
and how there is value in every person.” – Wes Oliver
Books like this one remind us that representation matters. That stories shape how we see each other. And that when children see kids like Evin in a book, they’re better prepared to treat kids like Evin in real life with kindness and respect, not confusion.
The Heart Behind the Book
Written by Alex Hartsell—Evin’s older brother and lifelong storyteller—the book grew from a place of love and a desire to continue the work Evin started.
Alex is a graduate of Western Kentucky University and a former U.S. Marine Corps captain. Today, he lives in Nashville with his wife, Lindsey, and their two young boys. When the opportunity came to share Evin’s story with a new generation, Alex jumped at it.
He wrote the book to honor Evin’s life and share his perspective with young readers—offering a way for families to start meaningful conversations about disability, compassion, and the ways kids can make a difference.
How Readers Are Responding
The response by readers has been heartfelt.
“Our elementary librarian read “Evin’s World” to several classes, then ordered copies for the kids to check out!” – Marla Slaughter
“I read it to my friend who’s 6. She was full of questions about Evin and why he was in a wheelchair.
It’s a conversation starter for sure.” – Pam Zaborny
Parents, teachers, and caregivers are using the book as a tool to teach empathy and respect. To help kids ask better questions. To remind them that kids with disabilities are just kids—full of energy, insight, and the ability to help others in ways that matter.
More to Come
“Evin’s World at the Zoo” is just the beginning. This is the first in a planned series of children’s books inspired by Evin’s life and perspective. Each story will highlight simple moments with meaningful lessons—designed to help children grow in compassion, understanding, and kindness.
Future titles will be available on Amazon, offering families and educators easy access to more inspiring stories to read and enjoy together.
Supporting the Mission
All proceeds from “Evin’s World at the Zoo” go directly to the Evin B. Hartsell Foundation. That means every book purchased helps fund scholarships, expand educational programs, and reach more students with messages that matter.
Buying the book supports more than a story. It supports a mission to build a world where people with disabilities are seen, valued, and understood.
You can find “Evin’s World at the Zoo” in the Books section of the Foundation’s website. It makes a thoughtful gift for families, a powerful addition to libraries, and a meaningful resource for classrooms.
A Story That Stays With You
This book might be short. But its impact lasts.
It teaches kids to slow down and notice. To see others with care. To understand that sometimes, the strongest person in the room is the one who leads with gentleness.
“I loved how Evin used his abilities to help others and put them first.” – Lydia Slaughter
If you believe in the power of stories to shape how children grow—this is one to share.
Want to be part of the change Evin believed in? Shop the book here.