Meet the Author
Stephanie Parwulski firmly believes that when words are used positively, they have the power to touch others deeply. Because of her lifelong love of children’s literature, Stephanie is excited for her authorial debut. Beatrice and the Sunflower Gift is her first children’s book, and she looks forward to writing more! Stephanie gathers inspiration from reading, singing, and gardening. She enjoys spending time with her family and friends and going on adventures. Stephanie lives in Buffalo, NY, working as a preschool aide and writing mental health articles for “The Mighty.”
Endorsements
“Beatrice and the Sunflower Gift is a truly insightful and inspiring children’s book set in a garden
meadow. It is a lovely tale of a shy, selfless turtle who learns to come out of her shell by giving to others.
Her caring spirit uplifts all the animals in the forest.”
~ Dr. Elizabeth Cappella, Distinguished Service Professor, SUNY
“In Beatrice and the Sunflower Gift, a young, small turtle leaves a sunflower for a young bunny, a mama
robin, and a sleeping bear in hopes that these gifts would brighten their day. Little did Beatrice know
that her act of kindness would multiply a thousand-fold.”
~ Dr. Geraldine Bard, Professor of English, Emeritus, SUNY
“In the pages of Beatrice and the Sunflower Gift, you’ll find a delightful story of Beatrice finding her way
into discovering the beauty of friendships. All children will enjoy the lesson of making new friends,
especially for a child seeking to build comfort and confidence in this challenging process.”
~ Dave Bauer, author, What’s Under That Rock, Papa?
“Emboldened by the warm embrace of a butterfly and robin, Beatrice, a timid turtle, tiptoes out of her
comfort zone to experience beauty and goodness beyond her protective shell. Beatrice and the Sunflower
Gift gently inspires young readers to be courageous; to choose curiosity over fear, and friendship over
solitude. A celebration of kindness, Beatrice and the Sunflower Gift encourages readers to think of others
and act accordingly. Kindness is contagious.”
~ M.T. DiVencenzo
“Parwulski’s story of a shy little turtle shows the importance of even the smallest acts of kindness.
Beatrice’s desire to share the beauty of nature prompts her to reach out bravely to others, leading to
unexpected new friendships. Even the most timid young reader will be inspired and encouraged by her
experiences.”
~ Nancy Marck Cantwell, Ph.D.
Meet the Illustrator
Tania Ramírez Cuevas is an illustrator born in Mérida Yucatán, México. She studied for a degree in graphic design in her hometown, and after a year of working as a graphic designer she decided to be a professional illustrator since her passion has always been drawing. Working mostly as a freelance illustrator, Tania specializes in children’s illustration, cartoon, character design and webcomics. She has her own webcomic called “Un Gato en la Ciudad” (“A Cat in the City”), where she shares her personal experiences and views of life in the cities of México. Tania has also worked giving conferences and drawing classes for teenagers and adults.
