Seemore the Seagull and his younger brother Sydney enjoy life at Revere Beach, joining in contests during a seagull field day. The competitions are cut short when a hurricane arrives, and the seagulls scramble for safety. Little Sydney gets caught in the windstorm and badly damages his wing. Rescued by his brother, who provides him with food and comfort, Sydney wonders what his purpose will now be since he can’t fly anymore. Seemore comes up with an important job for him that gives him purpose within the seagull community.
The vibrant illustrations add to the richness of the tale and enhance the story’s message. Even when times feel hopeless and confronted with obstacles, there are always ways to find joy and purpose.
Book age range: 2-10, Grade K-4
Hardcover
Price: $21.95
Softcover
Price: $15.95
REVIEWS
“An unlikely hero saves the day after he is injured in a storm. If you are looking for a story about friendship and seeing the super power in everybody, Ralph Tufo’s Brotherly Love will offer its readers inspiration that is steeped in local flavor.”
– Colleen Getty, coordinator at The Room to Write
“I can’t wipe this grin off my face; Brotherly Love is the most charming child’s book I’ve ever seen, with actual works of art on each page.“
– Diane Monaghan, Educator, Duxbury, MA
“As an early childhood professional, I was impressed with the loyalty of the family and empathy that was exhibited. The compassion, acceptance, and problem solving to help Sydney continue to be useful was empowering. In addition, Sydney’s expressions are magnificent.”
– Ann Taylor, Educator, New York
“Brotherly Love” is an adorable story about two seagull brothers, Seemore and Larry. Written in poetic rhyme, it is an adventurous tale about sibling love and kindness. It teaches self-worth even when things are looking down, and includes friendship, compassion, and the importance of diversity and inclusion. The colorful, gallery quality, spirited illustrations relate impeccably with the text, adding to the visual understanding of the rhythmic prose. As a retired early childhood educator, I would highly recommend this story for a fun read-aloud in the classroom, library, or at home.”
– Dale Kalberer, Primary School Teacher, Winthrop MA
About the Author
Ralph Tufo is a retired college professor and has been a professional musician for over 35 years. His band, The Squeezebox Stompers, tours throughout New England. In addition to writing the first book in the Seemore the Seagull Tales Series, Seemore the Seagull, he has written several short plays, over 50 songs, and 3 full-length musicals.
To view The Squeezebox Stompers’ video of the sea chantey, Seemore the Seagull, along with other related information, log on to www.squeezeboxstompers.com and click on the “Sea Chantey” tab at the top of the website.
If you’d like a book reading or a performance of the sea chantey, “Seemore the Seagull”, contact Ralph at: ralphtufo@gmail.com. For more photos, videos, and postings about Seemore the Seagull, log on to: https://www.facebook.com/seemoretheseagull
About the Illustrator
Jory Mason always aspired to illustrate a children’s book like her grandfather, John R. Neill, the Royal Illustrator of 34 volumes of Oz. Jory is an accomplished art director/graphic designer who is now focusing on her first love, painting. She is enthusiastic about teaching art and sharing new creative ideas. She is an award-winning painter exhibiting in Boston, New York, North Carolina, and New Mexico. Her work has been showcased in “Strokes of Genius 8: Exploring Texture!” by North Light Books. The Contemporary Art Curator Magazine’s, 2021 “Collector’s Vision International Art Award” was given to Jory as “an artist who has achieved a body of work of major cultural significance.”
She attended L’Instituto D’Arte in Italy where her first solo exhibition completely sold out. She later studied at the New England School of Art/Design and Mass College of Art. She has attained “Master Pastel Painter” status with the International Association of Pastel Societies and has led workshops both nationally and abroad.
For more on Jory and her work:
About the Photographer
Steve Levin spent his childhood in Chelsea, MA and neighboring Revere Beach was always a favorite destination. Today it remains his favorite place to visit or take long walks with his dog, Bella, who loves and appreciates the long crescent shape of this first public beach as much as Steve does.
Steve’s interest in art began in grade school when, at age 9, his collage was chosen for an exhibit at the Public Library. That interest continued through his student and adult life.
Recently his work has been exhibited in several galleries in Boston and the North Shore. Steve’s Professional affiliations include the Griffin Museum of Photography, Lynn Arts Association, ReachArts Swampscott, Greater Lynn Photography Association, Newburyport Arts Association, and Marblehead Arts Association. All photos are copyrighted. You may contact Steve at: stephenjlevin@gmail.com
For more on Steve and his work:
leaningrockpress.com 