Author, musician, and songwriter Howard L. Siskind has released his debut young adult fantasy 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 Caribbean family cruise turns into a portal-driven adventure involving dragons, ancient protectors, and a mysterious Victorian town called Hidden Hill.
Sare has long experienced vivid dreams of battling dragons, but the line between dream and reality blurs when she discovers a spell book, a magic mirror, potions, and a Star of David amulet passed down through her family. She learns that her destiny is tied to an ancient lineage of mystical protectors. With her father, Jake Wolfe, also a Protector, and new allies aboard the ship, Sare must confront a Magon—a being part man, part dragon—and uncover the secrets of Hidden Hill.
The novella weaves together fantasy, adventure, family heritage, Jewish mysticism, time travel, and coming-of-age themes, appealing to readers who enjoy magical quests and strong heroines. Siskind's creative background, which includes original songs tied to the SARE universe, enriches the story. His tracks "Daydream Dragon" and "Daydream Dragon II: Return to Hidden Hill" serve as narrative extensions, available on YouTube and YouTube, respectively.
Siskind's multi-platform approach is not new. He is also the co-creator of the Honabeats children's book series, which has been praised for its wordplay and illustrations. A reviewer on OnlineBookClub awarded Honabeats Says: Crazy Words! a five-star rating, noting its engaging blend of rhythm and humor. The Honabeats theme song is available here.
His creative journey was recently highlighted in Up.St.ART Annapolis Magazine, in an article titled "Ink – Never Missing a Beat," which explores how Siskind merges writing, music, and visual storytelling. The feature can be read at upstart-annapolis.com.
The significance of SARE lies in its seamless integration of multiple media, creating a richer narrative experience. Siskind's background as an accountant, musician, and family man informs a story where heritage and memory are central. The amulet and the Wolfe family legacy give the adventure deeper emotional resonance, suggesting that the gifts we inherit can be more powerful than we realize.
As the first installment in what Siskind plans as a series, SARE offers a new mythology and a heroine who must trust her powers and step into her role. The book is now available on Amazon.
