Author, musician, and songwriter Howard L. Siskind has released SARE, a young adult fantasy novella that blends family heritage, Jewish mysticism, and dragon lore into a coming-of-age adventure. Published by Vanguard Press, an imprint of Pegasus Elliot Mackenzie Publishers, the book follows Sarah Beth Wolfe, a high school junior who discovers that her vivid dragon-fighting dreams are more than imagination.
Set aboard a Caribbean cruise, Sare encounters a mysterious portal that leads to Hidden Hill, a Victorian-era town harboring a dark secret: a dragon, stolen treasure, and a Magon—a terrifying half-man, half-dragon creature. Guided by her spell book, magic mirror, potions, and a Star of David amulet passed down through generations, Sare learns that her destiny is tied to an ancient line of protectors. Her father, Jake Wolfe, himself a Protector, aids her as she confronts the Magon and embraces her role.
Siskind's creative process is deeply intertwined with music. The character of Sare was first introduced through his original songs, including "Daydream Dragon" and its sequel, which serve as narrative extensions of the book's universe. These tracks, available on YouTube, reinforce themes of dream-based battles and portal travel. Additionally, his Honabeats children's series, co-written with his wife and daughter, showcases his cross-disciplinary approach to storytelling, blending rhythm, wordplay, and visual art.
The novella's emotional core lies in Sare's connection to her family and heritage. Her powers are not random but rooted in legacy and memory, giving the story a deeper sense of purpose. Siskind, a longtime Annapolis resident, has been featured in Up.St.ART Annapolis Magazine for his creative evolution, where his ability to merge writing, music, and visual storytelling was highlighted in the article "Ink – Never Missing a Beat."
SARE expands Siskind's portfolio from children's literature into fantasy adventure, aiming to launch a larger series. The book is available on Amazon, and early reviews for his Honabeats work have been positive, with one OnlineBookClub reviewer praising the wordplay and illustrations. Siskind invites readers to share their thoughts on the new release, as the story finds its early audience.
For those interested in exploring the musical side of SARE, the "Daydream Dragon" songs and the Honabeats theme are accessible online, offering a multi-platform experience that enriches the narrative. Siskind's unique blend of music and storytelling continues to captivate audiences, bridging genres and media.
