Mary Beth McCarthy divides her time between Hilton Head and Connecticut where she lives with her husband Mark. She is a cellular biologist, mother of two daughters, and grandmother of two voracious readers. She enjoys reading, cooking, gardening, and walking the beach in search of sharks' teeth and other ocean gems.
It was love at first sight when Mary Beth discovered Hilton Head Island, a passion which inspired her to write about the island's fascinating wildlife through the eyes of her beloved golden doodle, Hilton. When he accidentally slips out of his collar at the beach, he is FREE! As he explores the Carolina coast, he meets many adorable, silly, and unexpected island animal friends. But as the sun sets, he finds himself alone and afraid. Will Hilton find his owners before nighttime?
Mary Beth was kind enough to send a free hardback, and it is beautiful. The story is adorable, and the pictures really bring it to life. You can almost feel your hands running through Hilton's soft fur, and the color palette is as vibrant as you'd expect for a beach story but still soothing enough for bedtime. There's an appendix at the end with cool facts about each South Carolina animal featured. My favorite part is when Hilton gets the happy ending that all good dogs deserve!
I’m a children’s book author who loves storytelling, travel, and turning real-life places into adventures for kids. When I’m not writing, I’m usually dreaming up new story ideas, visiting bookshops, or convincing myself that coffee counts as a personality trait.
My first book, Hilton’s Island, has sold over 3,000 copies and can be found in more than 20 local stores. As a side job, I am also a cellular biologist who has worked in the field of orthopedic research for over 43 years! Yikes, I guess that makes me old!
My husband and I split my time between Connecticut and Hilton Head Island where both my children with their spouses and my grandchildren live.
What inspired you to write this book?
The inspiration came from two very important sources: Hilton Head Island and my dog, Hilton—who is clearly convinced the island was named after “him”. I also wanted to create a story for my grandchildren, Mac and McKinley. A story they could see themselves in—full of adventure, curiosity, and fun. Combining a real place we love, with the people, pets and wildlife who inspired it made the book feel extra special.
Did something specific spark the idea?
The idea truly came to life one day when Mac took off running from me in Target, and I realized I was already living inside a children’s story. That night I went home and wrote Hilton’s Island in three hours. Of course, it needed much editing, but the idea and the overall theme was there.
Who is this book for, and what do you hope readers take away from it?
This book is for children ages 3–8—and for the adults who end up reading it more times than they planned. I hope children come away feeling curious, adventurous, and excited to explore the world around them, while parents and grandparents walk away with a smile (and maybe a new favorite bedtime story). Most of all, I hope it creates laughter, conversation, and a subtle but well learned lesson about not running away from the ones you love.
What role does Charleston or South Carolina play in your writing?
South Carolina plays a big role in my writing because I’m an animal enthusiast who loves the beach—and all the incredible creatures that call it home. Places like Charleston and Hilton Head are full of natural beauty and wildlife, and I wanted to create a story that captures that magic. My goal was to write a book that not only holds a child’s attention, but also gently teaches them about the Lowcountry’s natural wildlife. If kids finish the book curious about animals, excited to explore outside, and a little more aware, I’ve done my job.
What’s your favorite independent bookstore or literary hangout in the Lowcountry?
One of my absolute favorites is By Hand, Ink, a small but truly wonderful locally owned shop run by Bobbi Hann. Bobbi was the very first person to pick up my book and sell it in her store, which meant more to me than she probably knows. She is incredibly kind, encouraging, and genuinely supportive of independent authors. Places like By Hand, Ink are the heart of the Lowcountry’s creative community, and I’m so grateful for people like Bobbi who believe in local stories and the people who tell them.
What other creative projects are you working on right now?
I’m thrilled to announce that another “Hilton” book will be hitting the shelves this year! It’s called Hilton’s Holiday, and it takes our adventurous pup on another exciting journey but this time through the mountains of South Carolina—complete with a surprise visitor at the end! Can you guess who?
What advice would you give to emerging writers?
I always cherish this question, especially since I often talk to children in their classrooms. I tell them, "There’s no such thing as a bad idea!" Every idea is simply a thought or a phrase that has the potential to blossom into a beautiful story or book. I encourage them to buy a journal and jot down all their ideas, letting them simmer and develop over time. You never know when one of those thoughts might weave itself into the fabric of your inspiration. Embrace your creativity and let it guide you on your unique storytelling journey!
If your book were turned into a documentary or film, who should narrate?
If my children’s book were made into a documentary or film, I’d love Darius Rucker (Hootie and the Blowfish) as the narrator! His warm, distinctive voice is perfect for Hilton the dog, adding a lively spirit and emotional depth to the character. With his playful delivery and engaging storytelling, he’d capture kids’ attention and spark their curiosity, making Hilton's adventures exciting and unforgettable. Plus, knowing he's a local celebrity and my favorite musician would add an extra fun touch!
What’s a book you always recommend to others?
Where the Crawdad Sings is truly a remarkable book! I love it not only because it’s set in the Low Country, but also for its heartfelt story, filled with love, tenderness, and beautiful prose that vividly brings the beaches and salt marshes to life. The unexpected and fabulous ending is the cherry on top! I highly recommend it to everyone.
If you could meet any author (living or dead), who would it be and why?
My favorite children’s book author is Dr. Seuss! Oh, to be inside his wonderfully creative mind for just a moment—I’d give anything! As a writer who loves to rhyme, I totally relate to him. Not everyone can make words dance and flow effortlessly, and doing so is definitely an art. His playful rhymes and whimsical worlds are pure magic, and they inspire me every day!
You can reach Mary Beth McCarthy or purchase her book via the links below.
