Gary Benz

Gary Benz grew up surrounded by the natural beauty of Long Island, New York, spending much of his childhood exploring the woods and shores of Yaphank Lake and Lake Panamoka. This early connection with nature and wildlife continues to inspire his life and work. As a parent to Jonah, nearly 8, and Hannah, 3, Gary found a passion for storytelling through the bedtime stories he read and the meaningful conversations he shared with his children. Writing children's books that instill morals and life lessons has become a heartfelt pursuit, blending creativity with purpose. With a lifelong love of science fiction and fantasy, Gary believes in the power of imaginative worlds to provide solace from life's stresses. His works, including the published The Promise: A Cody and Summer Tale, reflect a blend of wonder, adventure, and meaningful themes. Current projects include The Fall of the Wibbly Wobbly Tower, which teaches resilience and problem-solving, and a series of "Journey" books featuring an adventurous character exploring magical settings like the moon, the sea, and the woods. When not writing, Gary can often be found connecting with wildlife, feeding animals, and finding inspiration in the natural world. He hopes his stories inspire young readers to embrace curiosity, kindness, and resilience.