Welcome

Murphy Bear Books is dedicated to inspiring in children an appreciation for sports and nature that will keep them healthy and fit for life. It was created out of the author’s passion for teaching tennis and her love for children. In her years of teaching she found a common thread that runs through most sports. It is the friends we meet and our connection to the outdoors. The obesity and ADHD epidemic in children also inspired the author to write these stories. She hopes to educate parents of the health benefits of learning sports at a young age. The Mission of Murphy Bear Books can be summed up in these three quotes. "A sound mind in a sound body” by Juvenal "The better part of one's life consists of his friendships" by Abe Lincoln and "Come forth into the light of things. Let nature be your teacher" by William Wordsworth.


About the Author

Maura Moynihan

Maura Moynihan is a writer, tennis pro, certified by the USPTA (United States Professional Tennis Association), and a certified RYT yoga teacher. She attended LIU New York, graduated with honors - BS degree in Elementary Education and was on the LIU Women's Varsity Tennis. Maura was a USTA (United States Tennis Association) volunteer coach for her daughter and son's USTA teams.

She loved to write at a young age and was praised in school for her poetry and writing assignments. She joined the SCBWI (The society of Children's Book Writers and Illustrators) to further her skills. For many years she studied with the Tarpon Springs Writer's Group in Florida.

Maura adores the country of Ireland, where most of her relatives live. She is one of six children. As well as being an avid athlete, meditation, music and living God's word is part of her life. 'I can do all things through Him who strengthens me,' gives her direction and perseverance. Maura lives in East Florida with a fantastic family and a precious pug.


About the Illustrator

Lee Berzman

Lee Berzman, the illustator, is from southern California. He developed an interest in drawing and painting at an early age from his grandmother who was an accomplished artist. He was a cartoonist on his college newspaper, and had a weekly comic strip called "Campus Funnies". He is a graduate of UC Santa Barbara.

Lee and his family live in Florida. He works in sales and marketing, and continues to illustrate children's books. In addition to art and music he enjoys golf, tennis and various sports.