Coast Guardsman writes children’s book about Great Lakes adventures

A U.S. Coast Guardsman stationed in Buffalo wrote a children’s book about his adventures on the Straits of Mackinac as seen through the eyes of an adopted dog, Onyx.

Petty Officer 1st Class Tyler Benson began writing the book from his original home in St. Ignace, Mich. because his three daughters would often ask why he would be gone for days, according to this story from WGRZ news in Buffalo. His family now lives in Buffalo where the book has been published.

“The Adventures of Onyx and the Guardians of the Straits” is the first of a planned 20-book series.

The book cover for “The Adventures of Onyx and the Guardians of the Straits.” Photo: Kristy Benson.

Here’s a description from the book’s website:
One stormy night, a homeless dog looking for shelter wanders onto a Coast Guard station in St. Ignace, Michigan. She finds a dry and cozy hiding spot inside a boat’s compartment. When the boat launches and heads into the Straits of Mackinac for a search and rescue mission, the frightened dog is still hidden on board. But when the tireless coasties are working to save a man overboard, Onyx the dog surprises everyone with her bravery, and she finds more than a home—she finds a purpose.

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