Countdown: 8 Weeks. In two months, I’ll release Book #1 in my new children’s series. Since I’m more than a little excited to share, I’ll be counting down with Thursday posts that focus on the Byways books. Each week, there’ll be sketches, excerpts, and explanations. But today, I bring an introduction. The youngest of Ian’s three sons volunteered to go first, so please meet Ganix!

Ganix Johns is a little too curious for his own good. He’s a born mischief-maker with a talent for getting into trouble. Ganix is always ready for a good time or a good meal, and everywhere he goes, he makes friends.

■ Ganix is know for being lucky. According to his mother, it’s because a ladybug landed on his nose the day he was born and blessed it.
■ Like his father, Ganix has golden-brown hair and amber eyes. He inherited curls and freckles from his mother.
■ This youngest brother is an avid letter-writer. He enjoys staying in touch with his many friends by sending them postcards.

Byways, Book #1: On Your Marks
releases July 4, 2014

Series Summary: Ian Johns is the founder of the postal system in the land of Liberty. Twice widowed, he has three sons, all half-brothers, and the boys don’t get along. In order to help them bond, Ian plans a tour of the country in the hopes that travel will bring them closer together. But somehow, the plan is twisted around, and the trip becomes a race.
Age Range: These books are geared for young readers who are ready for their very first chapter books (K-2).

Next Time: Ewan the Eldest