Michael J. Rosen, visiting artist and author, talked about his book “Speak!” and the relationships of children with their pets Tuesday to an audience of more than 50 students and faculty members.

Rosen discussed the significance of his work involving children and animals and why children’s work is of interest.

Rosen said one popular activity when he visits schools is for children to tell a story from an animal’s point of view.

Rosen presented a slide show and letters contained in the book Speak!

In 1991, the Speak! show began and has been presented in 50 different children’s museums and libraries.

Rosen is a nationally-recognized author and illustrator, publishing nearly 50 books including volumes of poetry, adult and children’s works, said Michael Watts, director of Tarble Arts Center.

Watts said Rosen is socially conscious and has helped support funds such as Share Our Strength, a hunger group, and proceeds of Speak!, a traveling show, will be donated to Companion of Animals funds. More than 400 artists have contributed to the funds.

“I loved how he brought the children’s stories into the presentation. He didn’t just use the authors. It made it more beneficial to us as education majors,” said Brittany Ojermark, a junior elementary education major.

“He was a really great speaker and he was very entertaining,” said Ami Oliva, a junoir elementary education major.

“Nothing breaks barries faster than talking about what compassion animals everyone has,” Rosen said. “I’m honored a book now 11 years old continues to have a vital life in varios communities around the country.”

Rosen answered questions from members of the audience following the presentation.

Copies of Speak! are on sale at the Tarble Arts Center.