Local authors are popping up all over and Long Island is no stranger to these promising authors. Many of their books can be found on the shelves right here in the Lindenhurst Memorial Library, especially in the Children’s Department. These books inspire so much more than your imagination… they spark a need for adventure. And lucky for us, Long Island can accommodate that need. Here, I will pair local children’s authors and their books with local outings that you can enjoy every day of the week.

In this book, local author Dorothy P. McPartland introduces the reader to the simple joy of wishing on stars and all the questions one might have when making those wishes. Each page is adorned with beautiful, hand-painted illustrations done by the author. This book will certainly get you in the mood for some star gazing and wishing. Montauk Point State Park is a perfect place to lay out a blanket, enjoy the sound of the waves, and gaze up at the stars for some night-time wishing. If you’re looking for a more in-depth look at the stars then head over to the Vanderbilt Planetarium in Centerport. There, you can watch a scripted show about the stars and the Galaxy they reside in or enjoy the rooftop observatory where you can get a closer look at the stars through their telescopes. *Due to Covid-19 restrictions, please check their website for showtimes or call before going.

This is a great book on teaching the importance of friendship, sharing, and awareness to others emotions. With life experiences in treating and caring for patients, author Robert J. Mascarelli was inspired to write this story of a tree who represents all who feel scared, isolated, or without hope. The story is a great reminder that no matter how tough life can be, there are so many loved ones that are there for us. So reach out to someone you care about and reserve some time for them by enjoying the simple beauty of nature. Long Island has so many great spots where you can go to take walk or bike through without the hustle and bustle of life. Massapequa Preserve is just one of those spots which offers 432 acres of quiet forests where you can walk or bike the trails. With flowing streams, active wild life, and a lake with beautiful vegetation and waterfowl, you are sure to find your peace with your inner self.

This book is the ultimate local book. It is set on Fire Island and features the Lighthouse, the Ocean Beach Historical Society, and all the history and life that makes Fire Island. Trouble Times Three3 brings the reader on a wild treasure hunt with three friends at the Fire Island Lighthouse. It also leads the reader into a mysterious case of who stole the gold medal from the Ocean Beach Historical Society. Can you solve the mystery before it’s too late? Fire Island is only a ferry ride away and with restrictions to cars it makes it the perfect place to get those steps in. It’s also a great way to spend the day immersed in the Islands rich history thanks to the Ocean Beach Historical Society, enjoying the coastal foods at local eateries, shopping at unique shops, and enjoying the many beaches. Don’t forget to stop at the Lighthouse while you’re there and walk the steps to the top for an amazing view of the island and who knows…maybe there really is a hidden treasure.

Here, is another book by local author Robert J. Mascarelli that emphasizes the importance of friendship and family. The journey begins when a young penguin finds a lonely iceberg desperate to find his family whom he was separated from. Thanks to an unlikely friendship between the penguin and the iceberg, along with several other arctic animal friends, the two set off into the Arctic waters to find Iceberg’s family. Although there are no icebergs around here and the Arctic is a bit far to travel to, you can visit the Long Island Aquarium for a fully immersed encounter with their penguins. There you can get a behind-the-scenes experience and learn as much as you can about how those adorable penguins live. You even get to see the penguins up close…perfect for a quick photo opportunity. * Covid-19 restrictions do apply so check online or call the Aquarium before going.