PLACER COUNTY

As warnings grow louder about the surge in youth vaping and its deepening impacts on mental and physical health, Placer County teens are stepping up with a new children’s book aimed at helping young kids build resilience early.

Members of the Placer County Youth Commission will unveil Benny and the Forbidden Garden, a new children’s book for elementary‑age students that uses a rabbit’s journey to help kids recognize and resist peer pressure — including pressure to experiment with vaping and other substances—while asking for help from a trusted adult. The public is invited to a special storytime and book launch at the Rocklin Library on April 8 at 4 p.m.

Created by the Youth Commission’s Substance Use Prevention Subcommittee, the book tackles a serious issue in an age‑appropriate way and is also available for preorder. In Placer County, 1 in 5 high school juniors report having used vape products at some point. Nicotine addiction can harm physical health and increase risks of anxiety and depression.

Timed with National Public Health Week (April 6 to 12), the book launch aligns with Public Health efforts to highlight prevention resources and promote healthy habits. The Youth Commission is facilitated by adult advisors with Public Health.

~ Placer County press release