AT LAST! A book celebrating the fun-filled Children’s Gasparilla Extravaganza! Join Benjy Blake and Uncle Jake as they experience the excitement of 100 parade floats making their way down Tampa’s Bayshore Boulevard!

A BOOK FOR ALL! Gasparilla Rat is a book that every child should have. From the colorful illustrations to the magical story, you can guarantee this will put a smile on your little one’s face!

Gasparilla Rat is the perfect introduction to The Children’s Gasparilla Extravaganza!
It’s a “Tampa” book for kids and parents—great gift surprises for Christmas, New Year’s, Gasparilla Events, Read Alouds, Baby showers, Classroom Teachers, Birthdays, and “Welcome to Tampa” kindness!

Your little ones will shout “AHOY!” with Benjy Blake and Uncle Jake as they see Buccaneers, balloons, beads, bands, and hot dog stands…and of course, “fancy fireworks high in the sky!”

Jane Brandi Johnson and Lisa Bohart, both Tampa locals, have written and illustrated numerous award-winning books for children. Their third Gold-Medal book, Gasparilla Rat, is the rage among Tampa’s parents and children!

The Mom’s Choice Awards® (MCA) evaluates products and services created for children, families and educators. The program is globally recognized for establishing the benchmark of excellence in family-friendly media, products and services. The organization is based in the United States and has reviewed thousands of items from more than 60 countries.

Lilly T—“Thumbs up for Gasparilla Rat! My kids are asking for it every night at bedtime!”

Marla O—“Wow, the Gasparilla Kid’s Parade just came alive! Love this fun book!”

Frank P—“Love the illustrations and the story is creative! I smiled when I saw the views of downtown Tampa!”

Susan W—“Gasparilla Rat will be under our Christmas tree this year. My grandson will be so surprised!”

Lisa M—“Okay, if your kids like pirates and parades, they will LOVE this book!”