What would happen if you put out a watermelon at an animal sanctuary? One day, Rocky Ridge Refuge operator Janice Wolf did just that – and the photos that got posted inspired Jasmine June Cabanaw's children’s book, Watermelon Party.
The picture book, illustrated by John Moriarty and published by Green Bamboo Publishing, follows the adorable story Cabanaw witnessed through photos at the animal sanctuary, once a single watermelon was placed on the ground.
Animals of varying species – who likely wouldn’t ever have known each other outside of the refuge setting – come together to share in the delicious treat. While it may be unfathomable to an adult to consider a dog and a turtle sharing a juicy watermelon, it’s beautifully illustrated in Watermelon Party, and Cabanaw even included photos of the namesake-event at the back of the book.
In addition to being a lovely tale of sharing and friendship, proceeds from the sale of the book are donated to animal-related charity, bringing the acts of kindness full circle.
Watermelon Party is available from the Green Bamboo Publishing website as a hardcover ($15) or paperback ($10). An electronic copy is expected to be made available soon.
