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This is a children’s book with a difference! We are thrilled to share the first book in this series. Our hope is that its message will touch the hearts of our adult LGBTQ friends who never had the chance to read about a child that looked or felt like they did. For our younger readers, we want to offer a broader perspective, a new dialogue and a better understanding of what the real world, and ALL of its people, actually looks like. Throughout this series, we will strive to support our young readers as they grow into caring, compassionate and loving individuals, who put kindness and inclusion above all. This is our contribution to the change we want to be and see in the world.
On a beautiful Spring day in May of 2019, I was with my family at DeLeon Springs in Volusia County, Florida, celebrating my mother’s ninetieth birthday. The Sugar Mill restaurant has been a favorite spot of mine since I was a child. It sits on the edge of the gorgeous springs where, just a few miles away, I saw my very first manatee when I was three years old. I was in awe of this curious creature and nearly fifty years later, those same magical waters inspired the setting for a book I had been wanting to write for quite some time.
My nephew, Max, a graphic artist living in NYC, was also eating ‘make your own’ pancakes with us that morning, around the griddles situated in the center of the restaurant’s tables. As we poured the batter and made shapes and faces that we then garnished with blueberries, strawberries and all sorts of delicious toppings, I told Max that I really wanted to write a series of books for pre-teens that broke through the stereotypical gender identity roles typically found in children’s literature.
I shared with him that I wanted to create stories in which every child could find themselves. I had a rough idea of how the first story would unfold, but on that day, while eating pancakes and looking out at the magical springs, Hugh and the Manatee was born. I didn’t have to say another word. Max fully supported my dream and its mission and agreed to help me bring Hugh to life.
Our heartfelt thanks to Book Hub Publishing for their immediate and unwavering support for this project.
With Love For ALL,
Mary Helen, Max, Hugh and the Manatee
