A story written across generations, miles, and oceans is finding its way into the hearts of some of the youngest readers in Forks. Jeremiah Henry, a 1999 graduate of Forks High School, has brought his love of family, adventure, and “home” with the help of Forks Elementary librarian Cathy Johnson.

“Whenever I read a book to my students about somewhere in the country or world, I put a tag on the map and we look and see where it is,” said Johnson. “When we read this book, I added a tag in Puerto Rico with the author’s name—because he’s a Forks boy, and that makes it extra special.”

The book, now available on Amazon for $12.99, is the first in a planned four-part series based on real-life adventures Jeremiah shares with his young son Mason and nephew Lucas during family trips to Puerto Rico, where Jeremiah’s wife is originally from. The narrative is enriched with local island wildlife, vivid imagery, and moments that celebrate both exploration and connection.

Johnson said her students were captivated not just by the story but by the colorful world it opened up to them.

“They especially loved the Coquí frog,” she shared. “It’s so tiny—only about the size of a quarter—but it’s loud and full of personality. Just like our storytime!”

To bring the story even more to life, Johnson found coloring pages featuring the animals introduced in the book. After reading, students could choose their favorite creature to color.

“I’ve read books from all over the world,” Johnson explained. “But it’s fun for the kids to see that someone who once walked the same school halls as they do is now telling stories about faraway places.”

The excitement doesn’t stop there. Johnson shared that Henry plans to continue the series, and she has already purchased an additional copy for the school library.

“I told Jeremiah’s mom that when he comes home again, I would love to have him come and read to the kids,” she said. “I think it would be incredibly inspiring for them to see that you can grow up in a small town and still tell big stories.”