ST. CHARLES – “Ben’s Adventures: A Day at the Beach,” written by Elizabeth Gerlach of St. Charles, has been awarded a gold medal in children’s fiction for kindergarten through third grade by Readers’ Favorite. Gerlach developed the "Ben’s Adventures" books as a tribute to her late son, Benjamin. The Readers' Favorite International Book Award Contest is one of the largest book review and competition sites on the internet, with thousands of submissions in 140 genres, a news release stated. The "Ben’s Adventures" picture books follow Ben as he imagines fun and exciting adventures from his wheelchair, showing that all kids can play and dream. Gerlach hopes the books can represent disability, but also show that kids with all abilities are capable of play, friendships and being included. (Illustrations provided)