Brotherly Love - (Seemore the Seagull) by Ralph Tufo (Paperback)

About the Book

An adorable story of two seagull brothers. Written in poetic rhyme, it's an adventurous tale about sibling love and kindness, reminding us how compassion, empathy, and emotional support can help others cope with life's unexpected challenges.

Book Synopsis

Brotherly Love is a Story Monster Approved Book Winner and received an honorable Mention in the Royal Dragonfly Book Award.

Seemore the Seagull and his younger brother Sydney enjoy life at Revere Beach, joining in contests during a seagull field day. The competitions are cut short when a hurricane arrives, and the seagulls scramble for safety. Little Sydney gets caught in the windstorm and badly damages his wing. Rescued by his brother, who provides him with food and comfort, Sydney wonders what his purpose will now be since he can't fly anymore. Seemore comes up with an important job for him that gives him purpose within the seagull community. The vibrant illustrations add to the richness of the tale and enhance the story's message. Even when times feel hopeless and confronted with obstacles, there are always ways to find joy and purpose.

Review Quotes

"Unfortunate events can cause setbacks in life. This could lead to depression and failure to achieve one's goals. Brotherly Love by Ralph Tufo relates how Sydney faced life head on.

Sydney and Seemore are brothers. They are seagulls who find delight in displaying their prowess at the flying contests and games. Sydney would practice flying and have drill sessions with his brother. Consequently, they performed well at the contests. Sadly, Sydney got caught in a hurricane, which left his wings damaged. Life looked bleak for Sydney. How would he get by? Would he ever find purpose in life?

The storyline was well developed and interesting. The descriptive narrative made the story come alive. My favorite feature is the numerous expressive illustrations in the book. Jory Mason, the illustrator, is an award-winning painter and accomplished art director. The illustrations were bright and colorful, with an artistic touch. They served as great visual aids for the story and made the book attractive.

Also, noteworthy is the vital moral taught by the story. There is much to learn from Seemore who did not fail to play his part as a good brother to Sydney and from Sydney's friends. Most of all, kids can also learn from Sydney who remained diligent despite his limiting circumstances. This short story can teach kids powerful lessons about showing love to others. Kids would find the story engaging and captivating." - Joyjim Subnavigation, OnlineBookClub.org review

"Brotherly Love" is an adorable story about two seagull brothers, Seemore and Larry. Written in poetic rhyme, it is an adventurous tale about sibling love and kindness. It teaches self-worth even when things are looking down, and includes friendship, compassion, and the importance of diversity and inclusion. The colorful, gallery quality, spirited illustrations relate impeccably with the text, adding to the visual understanding of the rhythmic prose. As a retired early childhood educator, I would highly recommend this story for a fun read-aloud in the classroom, library, or at home." - Dale Kalberer, Primary School Teacher, Winthrop MA

"Emotions were soaring as high as Seemore and Sydney. The bond between the two brothers shows that we should not give up during a crisis, we help each other adapt and overcome. Tufo makes you feel like you can walk down to Revere Beach and you will see Seemore, Sydney and the gang." - Krystee Maniscalco, Children's Librarian, Revere Public library.

"Brotherly Love is the second "Seemore Tale" written by Ralph Tufo with illustrations by Jory Mason and photography by Steve Levin. On a boisterous seagull game day, brother gulls, Seemore and Sydney, face ups and downs: winning races, getting caught up in a terrible storm, and facing new physical challenges. But brotherly love and persistence helps little Sydney reimagine his role in the flock. By protecting the nest, he becomes a beloved Hero and finds his inner strength. Ralph's lyrical prose and Jory's beautiful illustrations team up to create a recognizable Revere Beach scene with a heartwarming story." - Mary Mitchell, retired early childhood director.

"Brotherly Love is a heart warming story that reminds us how compassion, empathy and emotional support can help others cope with life's unexpected challenges. Through beautiful words and illustrations that capture the ocean colors and flavor of a local seaside village, we see how unconditional love and true friendship helped Sydney the Seagull find renewal and purpose which in turn, made a difference for all his friends and family." - Deborah Kneeland Keegan, Executive Director, For Kids Only/Afterschool Program