Placer Youth Commission unveils children's book tackling peer pressure

Members of the Placer County Youth Commission unveiled "Benny and the Forbidden Garden," a new children's book for elementary-age students that uses a rabbit's journey to help kids recognize and resist peer pressure, including pressure to experiment with vaping and other substances, while asking for help from a trusted adult. The public was invited to a special storytime and book launch at the Rocklin Library on April 8. Created by the Youth Commission's Substance Use Prevention Subcommittee, the book tackles a serious issue in an age-appropriate way and is available for preorder. "In Placer County, one in five high school juniors report having used vape products at some point," according to a Placer County press release. "Nicotine addiction can harm physical health and increase the risks of anxiety and depression." "We wanted kids to see themselves in Benny. If younger kids build those skills early, it can change the path they take later," said Youth Commissioner Gihan Liyange. "We hope to bring this book into elementary schools across the region." Timed with National Public Health Week from April 6-12, the book launch aligned with Public Health efforts to highlight prevention resources and promote healthy habits. The Youth Commission is facilitated by adult advisors with Public Health. The Placer County Youth Commission is a group of motivated young people from across the community who identify and advocate for issues important to Placer County youth. "Public Health Week highlights the importance of creating the conditions where all children can grow up healthy," said Michael Romero. "The Youth Commission's book is one way our community is strengthening those conditions by giving families tools to talk about pressure and wellbeing." If you are interested in preordering "Benny and the Forbidden Garden," visit https://www.placer.ca.gov/10787/Public-Health-Week-Placer-teens-take-act