Book publishing service Blue Mount Publisher on Thursday announced the release of Alexis and The Bug Hotel, a children's picture book by Zenia Phoenix that introduces sustainability, ecological responsibility and curiosity through the story of a four-year-old girl's fascination with insects.

The narrative follows Alexis as she builds a backyard sanctuary for bugs, records her observations in a 'Bug Book' and rebuilds the habitat after weather damage, demonstrating resilience and problem-solving. Her experiences inspire peers at preschool, earning her the nickname 'The Bug Hero' and reinforcing themes of empathy, environmental care and shared responsibility.

Combining engaging visuals with early STEM concepts, the book encourages outdoor exploration and nature appreciation for young readers, parents and educators. It positions environmental stewardship as a value that can develop from early childhood through small, everyday actions.

Phoenix, an Australian author and educator, focuses her work on fostering emotional awareness, compassion and ecological consciousness in children, blending learning with imagination to connect young audiences with the natural world.