Island Child LBI: Life Lessons From The Shore

Island Child LBI is a collection of contributions from those who have loved and lived on Long Beach Island, on the New Jersey Shore. A book for Island children of all ages, its life lessons are inspired by individual experiences and iconic island features, creating a sandy, salty blend of philosophy and local charm. What started as a book of simple lessons from the sea quickly evolved as residents and visitors came forward to share. Soon there were hundreds of entries from Island children and this very special book was born.

CORINNE GRAY RUFF grew up on the sugar sand beaches of Long Beach Island and Manahawkin and attended the Florida Institute of Technology where she pursued her dream of becoming an airline pilot. She flew as a flight instructor, fish spotter pilot, corporate pilot and currently flies for a commercial airline domestically and internationally on the Boeing 757 and 767. Her family history on Long Beach Island dates back to the 1930s; her parents met on 16th Street in Surf City 46 years ago. She lives in Surf City with her husband Mark, also a pilot, and their two Island Children, Ava and Jackson.

LISA M. BENJAMIN'S earliest artwork was etched along the sandy shores of New Jersey, where she was born and raised. She is a professional artist and educator, having the pleasure of teaching visual arts to Island Children on Long Beach Island for over 20 years. Lisa lives in Forked River, N.J. with her husband Charles and their son Zachary.