Magical Dog Helps Transcend Today's Tough Problems

VIRGINIA BEACH, Va., Aug. 18, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- Get ready for a world of adventure with the beloved Boston Terrier whose magical powers come to life in the first of his superhero series, Meet Franklin Bean.

(Photo: http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20110818/PH53943 )

This new children's book tells the story of how ten-year-old John transforms his worries over his mom's lost job, their move to a new town, and making friends with the bullies at school with the influence and inspiration from his new adopted friend, Franklin Bean.

Talking only to children and concealing his secret identity, the young pup fulfills his mission to turn human tears into smiles by performing superhuman feats.

What else is magical, according to first-time author Emmy Swain, is the level of engagement the book is enjoying.

Feedback from Barnes&Noble.com http://bit.ly/qqeA12 confirms it's not just kids who love Franklin Bean.

"My grandkids have ADHD and find Meet Franklin Bean riveting. Where he disappears to and what he's up to next keeps them guessing."

"We just read this book together ... I'm not sure who loves it more—me, my daughter, or husband. Hysterical."

"This could be one of those books you read over and over."

Modeled after Swain's own dog, Franklin Bean's uncanny abilities come from good stock. Real-life dad Dale made news when he dug up an Indian Spearhead (circa 8,000 B.C.) in her backyard.

"Franklin Bean storybooks are created to be lean forward experiences, encouraging children to actively relate the characters' situations to their real-world," Swain says. "Intuitively, the words and illustrations reach into the readers' imaginations, where real learning takes place. Choice allows them to craft their own story.

"That's the beauty of Franklin Bean's magic ... new possibilities emerge."

Swain will be at the Baltimore Book Festival http://www.baltimorebookfestival.com/ September 23-25 with unique treats for kids including washable Franklin Bean tattoos.

A portion of book sales goes to Operation Smile. [http://www.operationsmile.org]

Whose life will the adorable Franklin Bean touch next? Find out at www.FranklinBean.com

Emmy Swain believes in the magical power of animals to heal and guide the human spirit. Meet Franklin Bean was born out of her conversations with her own beloved pets to help end the devastating effects of bullying. The single mother has been an inventor, restaurateur, and business owner for over two decades.

SOURCE Emmy Swain