By Honorary Reporter Eftychia Dovletoglou from Greece

Photos = Eleni Andreadis

Eleni Andreadis, author of children's books, educator and environmental activist, was born in London to Greek parents and earned a master's in environmental policy and media at Harvard University in Boston. After taking a creative writing class, she wrote her first novel that went unpublished. 

Moving to Greece in 2009, she founded the non-profit organization Planet Agents, which encourages children to save the planet through programs at elementary schools throughout the country. Her books have been translated and sold in countries such as the U.S., China, Egypt, Turkey and Korea.

I first heard of Andreadis when I saw her books translated into Korean and felt impressed that a Greek did this and shares a commitment to protecting the environment with Korea. So I decided to asked her more about her works in email interviews from Nov. 18-30.

Eleni Andreadi collaborates with children in activities to instill within them an ecological spirit.

What prompted you to write children's stories?
After working as an environmental consultant on a documentary in London, I learned about children in India who got plastic bags banned in their town. I thought that children could influence the world and sought to communicate with them. I started Planet Agents and through classroom experience accumulated through the organization’s programs, I started the Planet Agents book series. 

What message are you trying to convey through your stories?
I want to express the need for everyone to become protagonists in saving the planet. One of my novels, "Justin Gray and the Earthkeepers," describes a teen movement that holds protests at a global summit against the climate crisis. I was later thrilled to see global youth movements like Greta Thunberg's with children as young as 8 or 9 taking to the streets to demand change. 

Sunest Publishing translated Etleni Andreadis' books into Korean.

How do you feel about your books being translated into Korean?
It was a huge pleasure and honor for me to see the entire series of five Planet Agents books released in Korea through Sunest Publishing. Korea has high interest in children's books and actively searches for new titles. I can't wait for the responses to my books in Korea.

Will you write a story about Korea or feature a young Korean character?
First, I'd love to visit Korea, which I haven't done yet, and I hope to do so with the release of my books there. I've heard that Korea's nature is also beautiful and places like Jeju Island are unique. By walking through Korea's forests and picturesque paths, I could get inspired to write a story that way.

What do you know about Korea's role in recycling and environmental protection?
Korea is highly interested in eco-friendly technology and how it can contribute to green solutions and sustainability. For example, Korea is a leading producer of rechargeable batteries.

kalhong617@korea.kr

*This article is written by a Korea.net Honorary Reporter. Our group of Honorary Reporters are from all around the world, and they share with Korea.net their love and passion for all things Korean.