Countdown: 6 Weeks. We’re counting down to the release the first of the Byways books, my new children’s series. Each week, I’ll bring out sketches, excerpts, and explanations of the adventure ahead. Today, I’ve added a Byways page to the website. Look for the tab and see where it leads. More pages will be added in the weeks ahead! And … it’s also my pleasure to introduce the Johns family’s middle son—Zane.

Zane Johns has a short temper, a love for excitement, and a surprisingly noble ancestry (on his mother’s side). He intimidates people almost as much as he avoids them. Oddly enough, Zane’s the only brother with a lifelong friend.

■ His mother was a princess whose family rules over a tiny island kingdom in the north sea. Like the nobles in the north, Zane has fair hair and blue eyes.
■ Because Zane hates staying indoors, his skin is darkly tanned, and his hair is bleached.
■ Zane’s idea of fun usually has some danger mixed in. He’s daring, and he loves a challenge.

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).

Last Time: Ewan the Eldest
Next Time: Ian Johns