A 13-year-old student from the Gold Coast is set to release his first book, combining fantasy storytelling with climate awareness and marine conservation themes aimed at young readers across Australia and beyond.
Arshaan Ameer, a student at The Southport School, will launch The Guardians of the Shift: The Coral Quest, a middle-grade eco-adventure designed for readers aged 8 to 14. The book follows the journey of Leon Ascanius through an ocean-based fantasy world connected to the Great Barrier Reef, with a focus on environmental awareness and climate change.
Arshaan said the project is intended to present climate issues in a constructive way. “I want to spread hope, not fear, about climate change,” he said. “My book is designed to inspire young readers to take action and understand the importance of marine conservation and environmental awareness.”
The release adds to a growing profile for the young author, who has previously worked as a filmmaker and environmental advocate. His documentary Generation Green has drawn attention for its focus on climate change and earned him a certificate from the Australian Book of Records, recognising him among the youngest documentary writers and directors in the country.
Arshaan has also received a personal letter from Sir David Attenborough, acknowledging his work and the broader importance of raising awareness on climate issues among younger audiences.
The book is positioned to engage families, educators and schools, with the author expressing a longer-term goal for its reach. “I dream of a day when this book finds its place in every library and becomes a part of the Australian school curriculum,” he said. “I believe that through storytelling, we can ignite a passion for environmental stewardship in young minds, empowering them to become the guardians of our planet’s future.”
A pre-launch event, including a reading and question-and-answer session, is scheduled for Thursday, 26 February 2026 at Ormeau on the Gold Coast. The official launch will follow on Thursday, 5 March 2026 at the Speakers Hall at Queensland Parliament House Annex, with political representatives expected to attend.
The book will be available globally through major retailers including Amazon, with early interest building around its combination of fantasy narrative and environmental themes linked to the Great Barrier Reef and climate education.
Arshaan continues to share his work through digital platforms, where he focuses on storytelling, filmmaking and environmental advocacy. His latest project places him among a small group of young Australian voices using creative media to address climate change and sustainability.
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