Coming in late 2026

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A heartfelt children’s story about big feelings, quiet struggles, and the kindness that helps us feel less alone.

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About the Book

Benny’s Tummy Monster tells the story of a young boy navigating school while carrying the invisible weight of hunger. Through the gentle lens of a little monster living in his belly, readers are invited into Benny’s world — where fuzzy heads, quiet worries, and small acts of kindness take on big meaning.

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Written with warmth and care, this story opens the door to conversations about empathy, resilience, and compassion. Benny’s Tummy Monster reminds children — and the adults who love them — that everyone deserves dignity, understanding, and the reassurance that they are not alone.

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Who This Book Is For

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• Children ages 5–9

• Parents and caregivers

• Educators and school counselors

• Libraries and community groups

• Anyone looking to start meaningful conversations with kids

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Why I Wrote This Story

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I wrote Benny’s Tummy Monster after years of working alongside children and families facing food insecurity through Backpack Society.

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Every day, I see how hunger quietly affects learning, confidence, and childhood joy. I also witness incredible strength in the children who carry these struggles silently.

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This story is for those kids.

It’s for the parents doing their best.
For the teachers who notice when something isn’t quite right.
And for anyone who believes that kindness can change a child’s day — and sometimes their life.

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Meet Benny

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Benny is a curious, kind-hearted 2nd grader who wants nothing more than to fit in at school and do his best — even when his tummy won’t stay quiet.

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His Tummy Monster shows up when things feel hard, representing the worries children sometimes carry inside. Together, they navigate friendship, learning, and the power of small moments that make a big difference.

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Interested in Author Visits or Early Readings?

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I love connecting with schools, libraries, and community groups to share stories and talk about childhood experiences, resilience, and compassion.

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If you’d like to invite me for a reading, classroom visit, or community event, please visit the Author Visits & Speaking page.

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