Benny at the Beach

By:   Caitlin Accurso
Illustrated by:   Caitlin Accurso
Imprint:   Saltykids
Edition:   Large type / large print edition
Volume:   1
Dimensions:   Height: 216mm,  Width: 216mm,  Spine: 6mm
Weight:   322g
ISBN:   9798218171148
Series:   The Adventures of Benny & Sam
Pages:   36
Publication Date:   15 March 2023
Recommended Age:   From 2 to 8 years
Audience:   Children/juvenile ,  English as a second language
Format:   Hardback
Publisher's Status:   Active

The beauty of the beach has always been a profound inspiration for me. Growing up along the Jersey Shore, the ocean has significantly influenced both my personal and artistic growth. Inspired by my family, I embarked on writing and illustrating my first book, ""Benny at the Beach,"" after a humorous day at the beach with my two sons. Observing a pair of seagulls attempting to snatch our food, I captured their unique personalities in a photo. The birds' comical expressions led me to create the painting ""Fish Breath,"" which sparked the idea of featuring seagulls as characters in a children's book.After writing my story, I taught myself to illustrate on an iPad and explored self-publishing options for my book online. This journey led to the creation of my first book, ""Benny at the Beach,"" which was released in March 2023.As ""Benny at the Beach"" concluded with a cliffhanger, I felt compelled to write a sequel. Less than year later, ""Sam in the City"" was published in November 2023. These charming birds embark on adventures in both the Shore and the City, where they many new friends and discover new places. The term ""BENNY"" has traditionally been slang at the Jersey Shore for summer visitors from North Jersey or New York. I aim for my books to highlight the joy of encountering individuals from various backgrounds. I hope that children can learn to value diversity instead of making judgments solely based on appearances. Infused with a touch of Jersey humor, I aspire for these books to challenge the stereotypes.A highlight of my journey as a children's book author and illustrator is engaging with students in schools and connecting with my young readers. My interactive presentations aim to inspire students to read enthusiastically and encourage them to explore their own storytelling and drawing abilities.With ""Sam in the City"" also leaving readers hanging, I am confident that their story is not over.When I'm not sketching on my iPad or brainstorming new story ideas, I am spending my time running around to different sporting events and enjoying my amazing family! The beauty of the beach has always been a profound inspiration for me. Growing up along the Jersey Shore, the ocean has significantly influenced both my personal and artistic growth. Inspired by my family, I embarked on writing and illustrating my first book, ""Benny at the Beach,"" after a humorous day at the beach with my two sons. Observing a pair of seagulls attempting to snatch our food, I captured their unique personalities in a photo. The birds' comical expressions led me to create the painting ""Fish Breath,"" which sparked the idea of featuring seagulls as characters in a children's book.After writing my story, I taught myself to illustrate on an iPad and explored self-publishing options for my book online. This journey led to the creation of my first book, ""Benny at the Beach,"" which was released in March 2023.As ""Benny at the Beach"" concluded with a cliffhanger, I felt compelled to write a sequel. Less than year later, ""Sam in the City"" was published in November 2023. These charming birds embark on adventures in both the Shore and the City, where they many new friends and discover new places. The term ""BENNY"" has traditionally been slang at the Jersey Shore for summer visitors from North Jersey or New York. I aim for my books to highlight the joy of encountering individuals from various backgrounds. I hope that children can learn to value diversity instead of making judgments solely based on appearances. Infused with a touch of Jersey humor, I aspire for these books to challenge the stereotypes.A highlight of my journey as a children's book author and illustrator is engaging with students in schools and connecting with my young readers. My interactive presentations aim to inspire students to read enthusiastically and encourage them to explore their own storytelling and drawing abilities.With ""Sam in the City"" also leaving readers hanging, I am confident that their story is not over.When I'm not sketching on my iPad or brainstorming new story ideas, I am spending my time running around to different sporting events and enjoying my amazing family!