By Oliver Lees
First-time author Maria Longo’s new ABC book is set to hit the shelves in Sunbury.
The Sunbury-based mother of four and former dance teacher said the idea for the book came when she struggled to find an early learning book that her children enjoyed reading.
“I’ve been interested in writing since I was in high school, back then I would always win the class awards for best story,” she said.
“In writing this book I used skills I’ve learnt as a dance teacher.
“It’s an ABC book that connects letters with sound, because in my experience that’s how children can learn and stay engaged.”
Entitled Meet the Alphabears, each letter of the alphabet is represented by a unique bear with their own personality and talent
For example, Abigail the artist is the bear for the letter ‘A’.
As well as writing the book, Ms Longo said she did the original sketch designs for each of the bears.
She said after completing two children’s writing courses and publishing her first book she’s eager to continue learning.
“Doing those courses was a perfect opportunity for me to improve,” she said.
“Now that the book is published, I’m excited to see how it is received.”
Ms Longo is currently in talks with local booksellers to stock the book.
For more information and to view the book online, visit: olympiapublishers.com/books/meet-the-alphabears
