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The Jumboo Guide features information and illustrations about dozens of Jumbalot's inhabitants.
Building a New World
June 4, 2020
As mentioned on the home page of this site, I LOVE fantasy stories. I enjoy how fantasy can transport you to a strange, new world different from our own. How do the inhabitants survive in this world? What are their values? Are they peaceful, war-like, or a bit of both? These are some of the questions I had to answer while writing Journey to Jumbalot.
Much like our world, Jumbalot's inhabitants (jumboos) live in a world threatened by chaos. This gives the main protagonist, Alby, an opportunity to find the strength to not only survive, but to help others in desperate need. I think most of us can relate to those circumstances in today's day and age.
I've dreamt about breathing life into a world like Jumbalot since I was a child. I'm beyond thrilled to finally make that dream become a reality!
The Latest Jumbalot News!
I want to extend my heartfelt thanks to Belmont Elementary for inviting me to speak about my preteen fantasy novel, Journey to Jumbalot, on January 30! It was a joy to meet so many enthusiastic elementary students who were eager to learn about my book and my writing process. We had a great time discussing how I used to draw animal hybrids with crayons and markers when I was their age, and how some of those early creations inspired characters in my novel. Additionally, I shared insights about my role as a multimedia designer at the USF College of Engineering. The students were particularly excited about two projects I showcased: the COE Sizzle Reel video and the Rocky mascot augmented reality Poster! COE Sizzle Reel: https://youtu.be/SLgICHgGa3I Rocky AR Poster: https://youtube.com/shorts/KMProROL7hQ?si=AdhQsaxyRNZCvOoY
I’m excited to announce the title of the sequel to my award-winning fantasy novel: The Knights of Jumbalot! Alby and Professor Wizoom will return to the magical world of Jumbalot to face an unimaginable evil that threatens their existence. The Knights of Jumbalot must rise and unite to defend their world. The book is still in its early stages, but I’ll keep everyone updated on my progress and potential release date. Alby is ready for another adventure!
It was a wonderful experience accepting my book’s gold medal on stage at the annual Readers’ Favorite Book Awards. Journey to Jumbalot won a gold medal within the preteen fantasy category last year, but I was unable to attend since my wife and I were both sick with pneumonia. I’d like to thank the event organizers at Readers’ Favorite for allowing me to accept my award this year on stage - it meant a lot to us both! We also attended the massive Miami Book Fair and enjoyed chatting with several fellow authors.