“But, Joey, I was afraid when I died.”
Joey Johanaby thought his life ended when his dad died. Being forced to move with into a mysterious,
old, Southern mansion in Tennessee seems to make things worse. With Mrs. Johanaby struggling to learn
new job skills Joey is given the difficult task of looking after the twins for the summer. The mansion
is home to more than Joey and his family. Ghostly and magical characters from the mansion’s past take
an interest in Joey and his struggles. They want to help, but their quirky methods are questionable.
After the family is almost torn apart by a near-tragedy Joey obtains a magic map. With this map Joey
goes on a journey that he might not return from—a journey that changes him forever.
Targeted Age Group:: 8 – 17
What Inspired You to Write Your Book?
I was driving home with my family from out-of-state. My kids asked me to tell them a story. I wondered what would make a good story: a kid their age, a map, a journey. And the map couldn’t be just any map–it needed to be a magic map. And the journey would need to be extraordinary. I pulled something out of my head for them. They seemed satisfied. After we got home the story percolated in my mind and heart for a few years. One day I sat down and started writing. Joey and the Magic Map was born.
How Did You Come up With Your Characters?
I didn’t realize it as I was writing it, but the main character is inspired by me as a child. I thought it was based on one of my sons, but when I read the book after it was published I had a ring-the-bell moment when I recognized me. The twins are actually based on my two youngest children. It is a strikingly accurate portrayal. The mother comes out of some hidden recess of my heart that I haven’t discovered yet.
Book Sample
In response Joey heard a single note of the wind chime. He held his breath hoping for more.
Two more notes sounded, and then three more. The notes danced in the air like fireflies.
The sounds came from nearby, as if they were in the tree with him. They were more beautiful than
all the sounds, feels, and smells of the country night put together.
“Joey.”
The voice came from every direction as if the very night had whispered his name.
Joey soundlessly mouthed “Yes?”
“Joey.”
This time it was louder, yet still soft and gentle. He recognized it. It was the girl’s voice he heard
at the pond.
“Joey.”
This time it was a laugh. It wasn’t a laugh making fun, but a laugh of delight. It came from the direction
of the cellar.
Joey looked down and watched a beautiful woman walk through the cellar doors. She glowed in the darkness
like a candle. Her dark hair hung in curls around her head. Her blue eyes shone in the dark. The hem of her
voluminous hoop skirt dragged lightly on the ground as she moved.
“Henrietta!” Joey whispered.
Links to Purchase Print Books
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