Tuttle Elementary School in Sarasota celebrates two teachers with new children's books
Two fifth-grade teachers at Tuttle Elementary School in Sarasota recently self-published their own children’s novels.
Justine Holcomb, a science and social studies teacher, wrote her debut book “Cutie Pie the Pumpkin and Her Pollinating Pals.” The story centers around a grandmother and granddaughter who use scientific thinking and problem-solving skills to grow their own pumpkin in time for Halloween.
Eric LoStorto, a mathematics teacher, wrote his second novel, “Unlikely Superheroes,” a story that encourages young readers to become “mathematical superheroes” by keeping “the right attitude and effort.”
“Writing a children’s book has been a goal of mine for most of my adult life,” Holcomb said. “It wasn’t until Eric, my longtime teaching partner and friend, shared that he was publishing his second book that I felt that I could actually write a book. My story was inspired by a magical three-year journey my granddaughter and I went on trying to grow our own pumpkins for Halloween. I realized this story could teach science while capturing a never-give-up attitude that can be applied in and out of the classroom.”
The authors, working separately this past summer, each worked with Sarasota-based publishing company The Peppertree Press to produce their books.
“I like to encourage my students to find balance between their brains and their attitudes,” LoStorto said. “We focus on mathematics in the classroom, but we also practice work effort and maintaining a positive attitude. I tell them every day, and we say it, that ‘today is not just another day.’ It means we are working hard for ourselves each and every day. I’m thrilled to be able to share this book.”
Both books are available for sale on Amazon. Holcomb is also selling her book through her website, JustineHolcombAuthor.com.
“At Tuttle Elementary, our goal is to instill a love for reading and learning in all we do,” Tuttle Elementary School Principal Patti Folino said. “Having two teacher authors serves as an impactful inspiration for our students. I am thrilled to share both Mrs. Holcomb and Mr. LoStorto’s recently published books with our students and their families. I am so proud of their relentless efforts to bring their dreams to fruition.”
Submitted by Alyssa Holcomb
This article originally appeared on Sarasota Herald-Tribune: Two Sarasota elementary school teachers publish children's novels
