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I am a proud grandmother and a first-time children’s book author. After 32 years of service at the United Nations in New York, I was inspired by the birth of my first granddaughter, Malaya Lael, to finally pursue my dream of becoming a published author.
I hold a BA in Communication Arts from the University of the Philippines at Los Baños and is a member of the Society of Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators.
Originally from the Philippines, I now live in New Jersey, where I enjoy reading and singing to Malaya in both English and Filipino and serving at a local church with my family.
Reviewed by Jennifer Senick for Readers' Favorite
Have you ever tried a new food and wanted to eat it over and over again? That’s exactly what happens to a young mermaid in Malaya the Mermaid and Her Peanut Butter and Jelly Sandwiches by Benilda Salvador. Malaya is a cheerful mermaid whose smile brightens even the darkest waters, but her life changes when she notices a peanut butter and jelly sandwich floating on the surface. She tries it and loves it right away. The others laugh at her. This makes her feel sad and out of place, but that doesn’t stop her from making her own version using sea peanuts, jellyfish jelly, and sponge bread. She meets Lael, who takes a bite and loves it. With support from her newfound friend, Malaya realizes that being unique isn’t something to hide; it’s something to celebrate. The story’s creative twists, from using sea-inspired ingredients to an ocean sandwich shop, make this tale both enjoyable and engaging.
I enjoyed reading Malaya the Mermaid and Her Peanut Butter and Jelly Sandwiches by Benilda Salvador. The book is both simple and clever at the same time, with a heartwarming message about being special that inspires kids to try something different. As an educator, I can envision it sparking classroom discussions, such as asking students about their favorite foods or creating a tally chart with two columns - "Yes" or "No" - in answer to the question: "Do you like peanut butter and jelly sandwiches?" The narrative keeps a nice rhythm, shifting effortlessly between playful scenes and thoughtful lessons. Anuki Lopez’s illustrations are vibrant and expressive, bringing the ocean to life with warmth and humor. The fun storytelling, charming illustrations, and uplifting message make it a read-aloud worth sharing at home or in school. It’s a sweet reminder that sometimes the things that make us “weird” are the very things that make us wonderful.
