Poets and authors are turning scientific studies into creative writing projects in a new book from the University of Minnesota Press. “Creature Needs: Writers Respond to the Science of Animal Conservation” includes work by four Minnesota authors, including Claire Wahmanholm. Wahmanholm joined Minnesota Now along with Christopher Kondrich, a co-editor of the book.

MPR News host Nina Moini talked to Wahmanholm and Kondrich about bringing science into creative writing, nature’s hand in poetry and the process behind the book.

Wahmanholm will host a panel about the book at Milkweed Books in Minneapolis on Thursday, Feb. 27 at 6 p.m.