Susan Eastman
Many folks may know Lew Polizzi from his fanciful creations in the Pottery Studio. As a man of many interests, Lew has now turned his talent to writing a children’s book, “Benny Beaver, A Child’s Ecology Primer.” Prompted by the birth of his son many years ago, Lew originally wrote his ideas for this book but then stored them away as the busy-ness of life drew his attention elsewhere. Recently rediscovering his book ideas, Lew contacted a publisher who saw the benefit of introducing Benny to the children’s literary library. Lew enlisted the artistic abilities of his friend and PebbleCreek resident, Ann Economou, to bring Benny to life through her illustrations.
The idea of Benny the Beaver was inspired by Lew’s years as a Wildlife Biologist where his specialty was fur–bearing animals. He realized that many children would not have the benefit of exploring wilderness areas where beavers lived. He wanted to create a story that would be fun and informative about beaver behavior in its natural habitat.
As we meet Benny, he’s old enough to leave the shelter of his parent’s lodge in search of a new home. With advice from his father to find a clean stream surrounded by many trees that can be used to make his own dam, Benny was off. In search of new habitat, Benny’s sojourn takes him where he can build his own lodge and a new beaver colony can be established.
Benny Beaver’s story is a delight that engages a child’s imagination while introducing ideas about the ecosystems beavers create. Ann’s drawings enliven the story so children can easily visualize that environment.
If you would like a copy of “Benny Beaver, A Child’s Ecology Primer” for a loved one, it will be available in the Creative Arts Center or online at authorhouse.com. All proceeds will be donated to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital for cancer research.