About the Book
Malaya the Mermaid loves peanut butter and jelly sandwiches—but under the sea, that’s not exactly a normal snack. “Eww, what is that?” the other merfolk say. “You’re weird!” Malaya wants to share her favorite food with the others, but they just don’t understand, and she feels all alone...until one kind friend changes everything.Malaya the Mermaid and Her Peanut Butter and Jelly Sandwiches, perfect for ages 4-8, is a heartwarming story that celebrates the beauty of kindness, the strength of empathy, the joy of curiosity, and the courage to embrace your uniqueness—even when others don’t quite understand.
About the Author
Benilda Salvador is a proud grandmother and a first-time children’s book author. After 32 years of service at the United Nations in New York, she was inspired by the birth of her first granddaughter, Malaya Lael, to finally pursue her dream of becoming a published author.She holds a BA in Communication Arts from the University of the Philippines at Los Baños and is a member of the Society of Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators.Originally from the Philippines, Benilda now lives in New Jersey, where she enjoys reading and singing to Malaya in both English and Filipino and serving at a local church with her family.Interview with Author Benilda Salvador
Storytime with Malaya the Mermaid
Join author Benilda Salvador for a fun storytime with Malaya the Mermaid—an interactive event designed for children ages 4–8. Each event features a live book reading, ocean-themed fun, bubbles,
photo ops, free mermaid goodies, and book signings. It’s a heartwarming celebration of kindness, empathy, curiosity, and being proudly yourself!
Barnes & Noble
Saturday, August 30, 2025
🕑 11:00–12:00 p.m.
📍 Barnes and Noble in Woodland Park
1156 US-46, Woodland Park, NJ 07424
Mountainside Clubhouse
Saturday, September 20, 2025
🕑 2:00–3:30 p.m.
📍 Mountainside Clubhouse at Pondview Estates
100 Julia Drive, Wharton, NJ 07885
Inspiring Young Readers
One Event at a Time
A peek into our joyful Storytime adventures and community events
Color & Dive into Kindness!
Bring Malaya’s magical underwater world to life with our free printable coloring pack! Perfect for rainy days, storytime fun, or anytime your little ones need a splash of creativity.