Oscar the Oyster and Rusty the Redfish

Although they have been around millions of years, more than 90 percent of the world's oyster reefs have collapsed.
Oyster reefs serve as estuaries for more than 3,000 species of marine life.
One oyster can clean up to 50 gallons of water in a single day.
Oysters mitigate red tide and algae blooms.
This children's book is meant to be an introduction to the importance of oysters.

The book was created for a youthful audience to compliment the documentary film UNFILTERED: The Truth About Oysters.

The story addresses how we sometimes form opinions about others based only on appearances and then discover they can be very important to our lives and the lives of others.

Dr. Guy Harvey is a world-renowned marine biologist and artist. His images of Redfish appear in the glossary of terms.

The content of the book was reviewed by scientists who have expertise with oysters, reef restoration and redfish.

Chucha Barber has enjoyed two simultaneous careers as a Museum Director and Television producer, creating more than 25 documentaries regarding Museum exhibitions and other topics of human interest.

She is a member of the Producers' Guild of America and the National Academy of Television Arts and Sciences. She has earned 8 Suncoast Emmys as was named a "Silver Circle" honoree, recognizing her for 25 years of excellence and industry leadership as a television producer. She has also earned two "Gracie Awards," as a Producer, from the Alliance for Women in Media.

Oscar the Oyster and Rusty The Redfish is her first book. It was inspired by the making of her first feature-length film, UNFILTERED: The Truth About Oysters. The film is currently streaming on PBS Passport. The book is meant to reach early learners with important messaging the importance of oysters. Chucha Barber believes engaging and informing children is an effective means to promote positive changes for the benefit of our planet.

Chucha has a passion for volunteerism having served as a Gubernatorial appointee through multiple administrations. She was Commissioner for Volunteerism and Community Service and was the Chair of the Florida Volunteer Florida Foundation.

Additional Community service roles have included Co-Founder Tallahassee Film Festival, Founder Florida Wine Festival, Chair Tallahassee Visitors and Convention's Bureau, Board Member Tourist Development Council, Board Member Tallahassee Chamber of Commerce, Co-Chair American Heart Association Regional Heart Ball, and guest lecturer Florida State University.