Howard L. Siskind, an Annapolis-based author and musician, has released 'SARE,' a young adult fantasy novella published by Vanguard Press, an imprint of Pegasus Elliot Mackenzie Publishers Ltd. The book introduces Sarah Beth Wolfe, known as Sare, a high school junior whose family cruise to the Caribbean becomes a portal into an ancient battle among protectors, Magons, and dragons.
Sare has long experienced vivid dreams of battling dragons, but the line between dreaming and reality blurs when she discovers Hidden Hill, a Victorian-era town accessible through a mysterious portal from the cruise ship. There, she confronts a dragon, stolen treasure, and a Magon—a terrifying creature that is part man and part dragon. Guided by her father, Jake Wolfe, a Protector in his own right, and aided by new allies, Sare must embrace her powers and heritage to fulfill her destiny.
The story weaves fantasy adventure with Jewish mysticism, time travel, and coming-of-age themes, emphasizing the importance of family legacy. Sare's powers are tied to her ancestry, symbolized by a Star of David amulet passed down through generations. This focus on heritage sets 'SARE' apart in the fantasy genre, offering readers a heroine whose strength is rooted in her family's history.
Siskind's creative background enriches the novella. A longtime Annapolis resident, he is an accountant, musician, songwriter, photographer, and artist. He has written and recorded original music connected to the SARE universe, including 'Daydream Dragon' and 'Daydream Dragon II: Return to Hidden Hill,' which serve as narrative extensions of the book's themes. These songs, available on YouTube, deepen the mythology of dragon encounters and portal travel. Siskind's cross-disciplinary approach was highlighted in Up.St.ART Annapolis Magazine, which explored how his ideas often originate in one medium and evolve across others.
'SARE' expands Siskind's portfolio beyond his earlier work, the Honabeats children's book series, co-written with his wife and daughter. The Honabeats books have received praise for their playful language and illustrations, with a reviewer on OnlineBookClub awarding 'Honabeats Says: Crazy Words!' a five-star rating for its creativity. Siskind's ability to blend storytelling with music is evident in his 'Meet Honabeats' theme song, further demonstrating his unique narrative style.
The novella is part of a growing multi-platform narrative ecosystem, where books, music, and visual art intersect. Siskind plans to develop 'SARE' into a larger series, promising more adventures for the young heroine. For readers who enjoy fantasy, dragon lore, and stories about family secrets, 'SARE' offers an immersive experience that bridges the ordinary and the extraordinary.
The book is available for purchase on Amazon. Siskind's original songs and media features can be accessed through the following links: 'Daydream Dragon' (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IrWFpDha-oY), 'Daydream Dragon II: Return to Hidden Hill' (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LBvOKV9MP8k), 'Meet Honabeats' (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jRrAl4y7QKA), and the Up.St.ART Annapolis feature (https://upstart-annapolis.com/ink-never-missing-a-beat/).
