Creater of Nick's popular series Maggie and the Ferocious Beast, Michael Paraskevas heads to the seashore to introduce a happy-go-lucky heroine who is determined to build the perfect palace of sand. Taffy's pluck is evident as she and her friends make due with a spot on the crowded beach, but when Rollo, the cheery beach ball, is carried off in the style of Mary Poppins, via umbrella, Taffy must hurry to rescue him. Fortunately, Bob the inflatable sea serpent is in Taffy's bag, and soon he is tearing down the beach, in hot pursuit. 
   Michael Paraskevas has been a bouyant and cheery presence in the picture book market for over twenty years, and Taffy's bright colors, beautiful seascapes, and colorful characters are sure to please parents and children alike.