Magical Sails

This great historical-scientific adventure begins with the fact that Tesla’s childhood is in danger because the Evil Fairy Gromlina plans to use Tesla's inventions to control and then rule the world. A boy Luka, a little girl Lana, and the guardian-fairy Angelina take a stand against Gromlina’s evil – and they will have the help of a fairy-robot Viloid.

During their journey through the scientist’s childhood (in Smiljan) and Tesla’s career (in Paris, New York, Chicago, and Niagara Falls), our heroes learn again about good and evil, whether enemies can be on the same side, and about the importance of forgiveness… Magical Sails: A Nikola Tesla Story is a book that opens the world of scientific inspiration to all generations.

Through this extraordinary story about Tesla, the reader witnesses the scientist’s triumph at the great World’s Fair in Chicago, discovers his laboratory in New York, stands at the top of the Eiffel Tower in Paris in 19^th century, and fights the great waterfalls of Niagara.

The many colorful illustrations evoke these moments and make them real and unique.

By the close of this book, we are reminded how important childhood is in forming a future adult life.

Makeda: The Soul of Sheba

No one, including Makeda herself, thought that she was ready to rule the Kingdom. But when a decision by the Council Elders threatens her ability to even try, Makeda is forced to show them that sometimes a woman is King! And she’s called the Queen of Sheba!

Malkin

Malkin tells the story of a small-town girl with big dreams, who believes her aspirations can only be realized in the big city, just a few hours away by train. Despite her humble beginnings, she seizes every opportunity, holding steadfast to her ambition of becoming a ‘Malkin’ in the bustling metropolis. She understands that achieving her dreams comes with a price: giving others what they want in order to attain what she desires.

With unwavering determination, she navigates the challenges and tribulations of her nuclear family and the struggles of her childhood friend. The narrative offers readers a vivid portrayal of how often her dream teetered on the edge of disaster.

Her journey is marked by indomitable courage and a positive mindset, fortified through meditation and gratitude. These elements guide her, acting as her talisman, and show her the path to success. She learns to see things in their true reality, overcoming self-deceptions born from her background, family, environment, and preconceived notions. Perhaps this is what it takes to dream and make that dream come true.

Man

Delve into the thought-provoking world of Man, the captivating first installment of the groundbreaking trilogy, Man, Wife, and Death. In this gripping tale, the reader is introduced to a man and his intricately crafted religion, forged in collaboration with his mother. Together, they navigate the complexities of society, grappling with moral dilemmas and striving to uphold what they perceive as righteous.

Within the pages of this compelling narrative, the line between fact and fable blurs as the protagonist delves into the very nature of religion itself. Contemplating profound questions, such as the fairness of sacrificing a sheep and the need for justice in society, the reader embarks on a journey of self-discovery, seeking answers to these thought-provoking quandaries and many more.

Embark on an immersive reading experience, delving into the journal of a restless wolf who rebels against the confines of society. Through his unfiltered musings, you will encounter a fusion of imagination and occasional violence, provoking both fascination and contemplation. As you gradually unravel the complexities of the wolf’s mind, you, too, will be compelled to confront a critical question: Will you align yourself with the audacious wolf or remain part of the passive herd?

Man, God, Religion, and State

Man, God, Religion, and State, is a reflection on our physical, philosophical, and political, past, present, and possible future. This book may challenge the religious views of some readers, but it is not my intention to cause offence to any religious believer. We are all living in a time of anxiety and insecurities, which may prevent us from embracing our humanity. But we should never allow either the pain and sorrow of the past or the threats and fears of the present to obscure our vision of what is just and truthful. Our present socioeconomic relationships are based on injustice and falsehood, which is unsustainable. We must therefore adjust our level and rates of consumption before we cross the line of no-return. In this sense, Man, God, Religion, and State is a warning to us all.

Mandy's Music

Mandy delights herself in hearing various rhythms as she dances and beats her drum. She convinces her mom to participate in her band for a short time. Later, the preparation for Ashley’s visit creates some conflict with her mother. When Mandy and Ashley attend a concert, they become fascinated with the musical melodies and beats that they are amazed by the performance.

The friends visit a music store with Mandy’s mom. The girls try various musical instruments in the shop and decide which instrument they’ll purchase. Mandy feels excited as she relays the information to her mom about her music recital. She feels some tension while trying to develop a practice schedule, but she perseveres. After her friend Ashley moves away, the companions stay in touch and perform in some of the same out-of-town events.

Mandy not only perfects her violin skills but learns other musical skills as well. Audience applause reinforces her self-confidence and Ashley’s. 

Manifesting Memories

What does a memory look like? Often it will appear personal and sacred because we have created it ourselves with every sensual focus we brought to our experience. Then, we sprinkle our thoughts and perspectives on it. A memory will reconnect us to the past for a  reimagining, a review, and a reframing. It will end up looking very much like who we are.

I hope the stories on these pages will entice you to return home to your own memories. Will you be stirred by how your memories have shaped you? Do they help reveal to you how unique you are? How have you chosen to be in life because of your memories? Reflecting on our memories may reveal how we truly belong to ourselves and to one another.

Enjoy the journey,

 Darlene

Manxi

Manxi is a simple story about a strange stray cat who comes and goes as he pleases. He shows up one day out of the blue and makes a new friend. Manxi doesn’t have to be anyone but himself to create a lasting friendship and an unconditional bond of love.

March on the Arch

Andi and Tony find themselves reduced in size to just nine inches tall. Mom and Dad have disappeared. What’s happening? Andi believes they must hike up the mountain behind their home, up to the monument known as the ‘Arch,’ to solve the mystery.

Being small makes everything so different! Mom’s garden, the fields, the woods, once so familiar, are transformed into a world of magic and danger.

Along the way, fun, friends, and surprises await. Brother and sister will need all of their courage and wits on their quest to save themselves, their folks, and even the planet.

Join them on this fantastic adventure filled with laughter and excitement!

Marchetti's Inferno

Imagine the thrill of witnessing your 11-year-old meningitis patient suddenly regaining consciousness after coming close to losing his life. Or the satisfaction diagnosing a rare cardiac complication in a middle-aged man whose only symptom was persistent hiccupping.

Introducing Dr. Dan Marchetti, a brilliant and promising first-year intern with remarkable clinical instincts, a rising star if you will. However, Dan finds his confidence beginning to shatter after his patients periodically succumb to their illnesses due to a series of medical ‘mishaps’ that cast doubt on the care he provided. The besieged intern is subsequently charged with the homicides of some of his own patients, deaths clearly perpetrated by a hospital insider with keen knowledge of how to manipulate medical devices in order to expedite a patient’s demise. The list of victims includes Trey Hartmann, a rookie star pitcher for the Pittsburgh Pirates. Marchetti must find a way to keep his love for the profession intact, while confronting this invisible character.

Marco\'s Journey and Other Stories

Hints of S.P. Peredo’s Mexican American upbringing appear in Marco's Journey and Other Stories as he draws from personal experiences to present rich characters in diverse geographical settings: the scientist traveling through the majestic mountains of southeastern Mexico befriends an unlikely group of strangers, thus starting his own personal journey of self-discovery;; a young traveler who in 1970 ventures behind the iron curtain finding love—and danger; the girl with recurring dreams about a spider’s web struggles for her sanity; the boy with a poet’s heart growing up in America during the Vietnam War fears he is running out of time; a lover left behind during the war writes her heartfelt letter of farewell’ the caricaturesque Mexican musician who, through his performance, gives his listeners a reprieve from their sadness. 

These well-crafted stories, imbued with vivid imagery, lead readers through their own journey to discover the meaning of success, love, and living life to its fullest potential.

Maria's Backpack

Sarah, Aleena, and Maria are best friends. They do everything together – they even share their hijabs!

But what happens when Maria disappears from school for a few days, and wants to be alone? Does that mean she no longer wants to be Sarah’s friend?

Join Sarah as she learns what it means to look after one’s mental health, which is just as important as taking care of our bodies.