Benita Salvatore has a novel approach to teaching and at Assisi Catholic College, Upper Coomera it’s making a world of difference this Book Week (Saturday 16 to Saturday 23 August). Inspired by her proud Italian heritage, Year 12 Assisi Catholic College Coordinator Benita is authoring a new chapter in language learning, self-publishing 10 books aimed to help people of all ages fall in love with the Italian language.
‘A Day with Nonna’
Her most recent release, ‘A Day with Nonna’ is already serving up a heartwarming slice of Italian culture, family connection, and language learning.
Benita said, “reading with my children made me realise something was missing”.
“I remember thinking, wouldn’t it be nice to read them something more educational, something that could help keep my Italian heritage alive for my children?” she said.
“I started by writing simple bilingual stories for my own kids.
“Then I realised other families and educators could benefit from them too and that’s when the self-publishing journey began.
‘Whether it’s a parent reading to their child, or a grandparent learning a new word in Italian alongside them, my books support learning at every stage of life.”
‘Mr McShea and His Magic Hat’
That same passion for lifelong learning led her to support others in bringing their own stories to life.
In 2025, Benita helped former colleague and Notre Dame College, Bells Creek Head of College Jasmine Brown turn her dreams into reality, mentoring her through the publication of her debut children’s book, ‘Mr McShea and His Magic Hat.’
The story celebrates Notre Dame College Principal Dan McShea, teaching students about College values of Compassion, Courage, Hope and links to the College’s Marist Charism.
Jasmine said, “Benita was the plot twist I didn’t know I needed”.
“Her support helped me go from scribbles in a notebook to a real published book that’s now read across all our College classrooms,” she said.
“Whether she’s teaching students how to say ‘ciao’ or helping fellow educators turn ideas into fully bound creations, Benita proves that great teachers don’t just educate, they illustrate the way forward.”
Benita was also Assisi Catholic College’s first school captain in 2009.
For more information about Assisi Catholic College, Upper Coomera or to enrol click here.
For more information about Notre Dame College, Bells Creek or to enrol click here. Children's Book Week turns 80 in 2025
2025 is also a milestone year for Book Week as we celebrate 80 years! For eight decades, The Children’s Book Council of Australia has been dedicated to inspiring young minds to journey through the countless worlds that books offer.