Mahwah Woman's Children's Book Champions Wildlife Protection

MAHWAH, NJ — A little story can go a long way. At least, that's what Margaret Lepera hopes.

Lepera, a 20-year publisher and advertising writer, published her first children's book recently, "The Soulful Adventures of Spencer, the Soft-Hearted Seal."

The book is about an 8-day-old seal pup who gets separated from his family after a gust of wind sends him down a big hill. The book is about Spencer's struggle to find his way home. He learns to make sense of the world around him as he meets both friends and foes, including a hunter. The book is designed for 6- to 9-year-olds.

"I'm very concerned about the welfare and safety of animals," Lepera said. "I thought that one of the best ways to teach children to have kindness towards sentient beings in through a story like this."

The book won a finalist distinction at The Spark: A Literary Event for Writers and Poets at in New York City June 25.

Lepera said a possible sequel, maybe a series, is in the works.

"I'm thrilled to have such a positive reception to the book," Lepera said."This is a heartwarming story of love, friendship and courage. I believe children can relate to the many trials Spencer faces when lost. He must trust his inner voice to lead him where he needs to go, determine who to trust, and who not to, based on his intuition. This culminates in his learning the most important life lesson of all: That love surrounds him, always."

Email: daniel.hubbard@patch.com