Mario S. Banko

Hi, I am Mario- a former military guy, award winning Chef turned private Chef, photographer, sailor, outdoor addict, husband, dog lover, and very proud dad. My life has taken me from kitchens on land and sea to quiet forest, high mountain trails, and now into the.magical world of children books.

People often ask why someone who looks a bit “rough and tumble” ends up writing gentle stories for kids. The truth is simple: years ago, during a writing class, my professor told me that people who never finish their novels (yes… that was me) should start with short stories or children’s books. That advice stuck — and eventually grew into something bigger.

Becoming a father changed everything. I realized that if I want to leave this world better than I found it, the best place to start is with the next generation. What could be more meaningful than planting small seeds of love, compassion, and respect for nature and animals in the hearts of children? They’re the ones who will shape the future.

When I’m not writing, you’ll usually find me hiking with my family, photographing wildlife, cooking something delicious, or helping with small-scale nature and animal conservation projects. My books are inspired by all the things I treasure most: adventure, kindness, curiosity, and the magic found in the natural world.

If my stories make a child feel brave, kind, or connected to nature… then I’ve done my job well.