Our beach towns hold a certain kind of magic. Between the steady lull of waves crashing and the feeling of sand beneath your feet, the shore becomes a place where creativity soars, inspiration strikes, and stories come alive.
One Brigantine local has fully embraced that inspiration, turning the calming presence of the sea into a children’s book series titled “Whispers from Heaven.” The series was made to remind children that God’s love and guidance are always present, even in the quiet moments.
Author Belinda Dawn Allen has called Brigantine home since 1985, when she moved from Pennsylvania to the shore full time. She credits her proximity to the beach and ocean with lifting her spirit and fueling her creativity each day.
That creativity has been a constant throughout Allen’s life.
“I’ve wanted to be a writer since high school, and by my early twenties I knew I wanted to write children’s stories,” Allen said. “Over the years, I would jot down little ideas and ‘doodles,’ but I didn’t fully commit until a few years ago. After the birth of my grandson, whom I am currently raising, I felt called to finally pour myself into writing. All of my stories are inspired by experiences we’ve shared together.”
A retired educator, Allen felt naturally drawn to write stories that nurture faith, kindness, and curiosity, values she hopes shine through in her newest series. “Whispers from Heaven,” like all of her books, is written primarily for children ages 3-9.
Allen shared that her favorite place to write is in nature, where her ideas can flow freely. Whether sitting on the beach or reflecting after a long walk outdoors, that is where she does much of her brainstorming.
“The ocean and the countryside are the two places where I spend most of my time,” Allen said. “Living by the sea in Brigantine and visiting family in the mountains near the Shenandoah Valley both feel deeply connected to God’s creation, peace, and reflection, making them natural settings for my stories. Many of my stories will continue to reflect coastal life and visits to our family farm, but I’m open to wherever the stories may lead as I grow as a writer.”
On average, it takes Allen just three to six weeks to write each book. She works closely with an illustrator who helps capture both the emotional depth and physical details of every story.
Her books are currently available online through Amazon and locally at Coast et’Atelier, a Brigantine boutique. Allen is also working to place her books in local libraries and Christian bookstores.
Since her writing is rooted in lived experiences and the feeling of shore-town life, South Jersey plays a significant role in both her creativity and her stories.
“I love the warmth, authenticity, and sense of togetherness,” Allen said. “South Jersey feels close-knit yet welcoming, with people who genuinely support one another, along with local families, schools, and small businesses.”
With ten books already published, three more in the publishing phase, and seven additional stories written and scheduled for release in the coming months, Allen stays busy soaking in nature, embracing experiences, and transforming everyday moments into teachable ones for her young readers.
“I hope children feel loved, reassured, and reminded that God is always with them,” Allen said. “My goal is to plant seeds of faith, kindness, courage, gratitude, and hope, showing that even small moments can carry big meaning.”
