Meet the Author & Illustrator
Cindy Fortunato is a mother of 3 young adults, lifelong writer and worked in academic publishing sales and marketing. She loves young kids and taught preschool. After her youngest child was diagnosed with cystic fibrosis, Cindy turned to writing as a form of healing and hope. Her daughter’s resilience inspired the heart of Sammy’s story and fuels Cindy’s mission to bring joy and support to other families affected by CF.
Amy McIntyre is the creative force behind the vibrant illustrations of Sammy’s Adventures in Ocean City, NJ. A graduate of Kutztown University of Pennsylvania, Amy has illustrated for renowned clients including Scholastic Books and Walt Disney World. Her playful style brought Sammy to life on the page—whether capturing Wonderland Pier, Ocean City boardwalk flavors, or launching scratch-and-sniff sticker adventures—her art is whimsical, heartwarming, and rooted in childhood wonder. linkedin.com/in/amy-mcintyre-316 | mcintyredesign.net
Book Art & Illustration Gallery
About the Book
Sammy’s Adventures in Ocean City, NJ
Sammy’s Adventures in Ocean City, NJ is a beautifully illustrated picture book inspired by cherished family vacations and dedicated to children and adults living with cystic fibrosis.
This heartfelt story features Sammy, a bow-tie-wearing monkey, who falls in love with Ocean City during his very first visit. From a surrey ride up the boardwalk to seeing iconic eateries like Curly’s Fries, Kohr Bros., Shriver’s, Manco & Manco (then Mack & Manco), and the Fudge Kitchen, the story captures the magic of a day at the Jersey Shore. A two-page spread lovingly depicts Gillian’s Wonderland Pier, and scratch-and-sniff stickers bring the scents of the shore to life.
Watch author Cindy Fortunato read her book aloud-featuring beloved Ocean City landmarks and a surprise monkey hero!
Award
Media Coverage
Featured In: Reading Eagle
Reading Eagle Article Text
Local Author Combines Shore Magic with Personal Mission in New Children’s Book
Reading, PA –
Sammy’s Adventures in Ocean City, NJ is a colorful children’s picture book created by Reading residents Cindy Fortunato and Amy McIntyre. The book was inspired family beach vacations and Cindy’s daughter's journey with cystic fibrosis.
“The book began as a dream between two childhood best friends,” Fortunato shared. “But it became real after my daughter’s diagnosis. Writing became therapy, and Sammy’s story became a way to bring joy to other families.”
Featuring beloved Ocean City landmarks like Wonderland Pier, Shriver’s, Manco & Manco, and Kohr Bros., the book is filled with vivid illustrations and sensory stickers that evoke the smells of salt air and sweets on the boardwalk.
(full article link https://www.sammysadventures.com/s/Reading-Eagle-jzdf.pdf)
Featured In: Wilson Pride April 2009
Featured In: The Sand Paper
Featured in the SandPaper with SunRose Words & Music October 8, 2009
