Countdown: 3 Weeks. We’re counting down to the release the first book in my new children’s series. Each Thursday, I’ll bring out sketches, excerpts, and explanations of the adventure ahead. You’ve already met Ewan, Zane, and Ganix, whose race across Liberty takes sibling rivalry to new lengths. Today, I’ll introduce their father, Ian Johns.

Ian Johns is the founder of the postal system in the land of Liberty. Twice widowed, the Postmaster 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 countryside in the hopes that travel will bring his sons closer together. Somehow, the plan is twisted around, and the trip becomes a race.

■ Ian has silver hair now, but when he was younger, it was the same golden brown as Ewan’s. People say Ewan is the spitting image of his father.
■ Each of Ian’s sons have inherited a part of their father’s personality. He’s protective of the men and women in his company, a trait Ewan shares. Ian is thoughtful in small, unspoken ways, and so is Zane. And Ian is as cheerful and outgoing as Ganix, who also makes friends easily.
■ Ian John’s home is quirky house with lots of turrets and chimneys called the Eyrie (pronounced EYE-ree), which is another name for an eagle’s nest.

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

Taking sibling rivalry to brand new lengths…

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: Zane the Rebel
Next Time: Uncle Vanek