A BU graduate has combined his passions for surfing and storytelling to create a children’s book with an environmental message.
Pond Life is the first book published by Bournemouth-based writer and creative Dominic Brancaleone, who completed his Master’s in Screenwriting at BU in 2010.
The book tells the story of Samuel the Snail, who sets out on a journey of discovery as he meets a series of colourful characters who make him consider his impact on the environment.
Originally written as a feature length animation script, the book was inspired by Dominic’s four-year-old daughter, Leia, and her interest in these issues. He said: “As a family we love the beach and visit all the time. It’s sad to see litter, plastic, and pollution build-up. I wanted to combine my writing and my passion for a deeper appreciation for the beaches and oceans being clean.
“Bournemouth beaches have had their issues over the years with littering and pollution, so this is a way to inspire the next generation to think about how to protect them.”
The book has already made its way to local nurseries and schools, including the premature baby unit in Poole Hospital, with the hope to team up with local libraries in the area.
Prior to studying at BU, Dominic completed his undergraduate degree at University of the Creative Arts and called on one of his fellow alumni from the institution, Craig Montgomery, to illustrate the story. He said: “We wanted to use animal characters to help bring the story to life, with our protagonist being as innocent as the readers. Our aim is to raise awareness of this issue in a fun and inspiring way that younger children will understand.”
The book is independently published and available for purchase through Amazon.
