Howard L. Siskind, an Annapolis-based author, musician, and creator of the Honabeats children's series, has released his first novella, SARE, 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 gateway to an ancient battle among protectors, Magons, and dragons.
Sare has long experienced vivid dreams of battling dragons, but as the story unfolds, she discovers that these dreams are real. She finds herself drawn into a mysterious Victorian-era town called Hidden Hill, accessible through a portal from the cruise ship. There, she confronts a dragon, stolen treasure, and a Magon—a terrifying being 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 learn to trust her powers and embrace her destiny as part of an ancient line of mystical protectors.
The novella weaves together fantasy, adventure, family heritage, Jewish mysticism, time travel, portal magic, and coming-of-age courage. Sare's powers are tied to her family's legacy, symbolized by a Star of David amulet passed down through generations. Her father's role as Protector and the mysterious history of the Wolfe family add depth to the story, emphasizing themes of identity, legacy, and the power of inherited gifts.
Siskind's creative background makes SARE distinctive. Known for his work as an accountant, musician, songwriter, photographer, and artist, he has integrated music into the storytelling experience. The novella is supported by original songs, including 'Daydream Dragon' and 'Daydream Dragon II: Return to Hidden Hill,' which expand the mythology and emotional tone of the book. These tracks are available on YouTube and serve as narrative extensions of the story. A related composition, 'Meet Honabeats,' further demonstrates his cross-disciplinary approach.
The book is part of a broader multi-platform narrative ecosystem, with music and storytelling intertwined. Siskind's creative journey was recently highlighted in Up.St.ART Annapolis Magazine in an article titled 'Ink – Never Missing a Beat,' which explored how his ideas often originate in one medium and evolve across others.
While SARE marks Siskind's expansion into young adult fantasy, his earlier work on the Honabeats series has already garnered positive reception. Reviews on platforms like OnlineBookClub and Amazon praise the series for its playful language and engaging illustrations, helping young readers connect with phonics and wordplay in a fun way.
The release of SARE signals the beginning of a planned series, offering readers a new heroine and mythology. The book is available for purchase on Amazon, and Siskind encourages readers to share their thoughts as the story finds its audience.
For those interested in exploring the world of SARE, the book can be found at Amazon. The accompanying music is available at Daydream Dragon and Daydream Dragon II. The media feature can be read at Up.St.ART Annapolis.
