Eleven-Year-Old Author Maia Huelsen Is Inspiring the Next Generation of Animal Advocates

We are thrilled to announce that we are partnering with a remarkable young talent: eleven-year-old author Maia Huelsen. Her debut short story, One Pig One Stop, is set to captivate the hearts of readers around the globe. With captivating illustrations and storytelling that gently unfolds the reality of modern agriculture, this book aims to educate, inspire, and spark curiosity among its audience.

Written by a young person for young people, One Pig One Stop is a heartfelt story about a pig’s journey to the slaughterhouse. Huelsen encourages readers to think about where their food comes from, the lives of animals on farms, and the impact of farming practices on our planet.

20% of the net book sale profits will be donated to World Animal Protection. You can purchase your copy of One Pig One Stop by clicking here!

We had the opportunity to chat with Maia about her new book. Throughout our conversation Maia shared a glimpse into the journey of writing One Pig, One Stop.

Q: What prompted you to write this story?

A: Seeing helpless animals getting driven to the slaughterhouse every day, watching the sad and innocent creatures getting driven to their final fate.

Q: How did you learn about factory farming?

A: I did a lot of research on the internet!

Q: What takeaways do you want readers to have after reading your story?

A: That it’s hard to stop eating meat but it’s not impossible. Would you rather save a life or eat a leg?

Q: What hopes do you have for your generation with regards to animal protection?

A: That we are more aware, that we all are trying our hardest to support the animals’ lives.

Q: What do you think is the best way for kids your age to advocate for farmed animals? 

A: Avoid eating meat, donate to charities, and just know that you can’t love animals if you are the one killing them.

Maia and her younger sister finding tadpoles.

Encouraging and supporting conversations about factory farming with the young people in your life creates an opportunity to instill values of compassion, empathy, and responsibility towards the planet. To help jumpstart these conversations, here are some tips on how to approach the topic of factory farming in an age-appropriate and constructive manner.

1. Start with the basics: All animals deserve to lead happy, healthy, fulfilling lives freely in their natural environment.
2. Use age-appropriate language: Tailor the conversation based on age and maturity level. For example, you can focus on the basic needs of animals (like food, water, and a safe place to live) and how it’s important to treat all living things with kindness.
3. Spotlight empathy: Help build empathy and understanding by having conversations about how animals may feel and how they may feel in different situations.
4. Brainstorm positive actions: Work together to brainstorm positive steps that can be taken to improve the lives of animals.
5. Encourage questions and open dialogue: Make it clear that it’s okay to ask questions and express feelings. Create a safe place for young people to explore their thoughts and feelings. 

While One Pig One Stop follows one pig’s journey, it’s important to remember that this is the reality for billions of pigs around the world. You can help make a difference for all farmed animals, like pigs, chickens, turkeys, and cows who endure this cruelty by choosing to reduce or eliminate animal products.