Howard L. Siskind's 'SARE' Blends Fantasy, Family Heritage, and Music in New Young Adult Novella

In a literary landscape often dominated by sprawling series and recycled tropes, Howard L. Siskind's new young adult fantasy novella, "SARE," stands out for its intimate fusion of personal heritage, musical inspiration, and classic fantasy elements. 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 an unexpected gateway to an ancient battle among protectors, Magons, and dragons.

The story centers on Sare's struggle to distinguish dreams from reality as she grapples with vivid visions of dragon battles. Her journey takes a decisive turn when she discovers Hidden Hill, a Victorian-era town accessible through a mysterious portal from the cruise ship. There, she uncovers a dark secret involving a dragon, stolen treasure, and the looming threat of a Magon—a terrifying hybrid of man and dragon. Guided by her father, Jake Wolfe, a Protector in his own right, and aided by new allies aboard the ship, Sare must embrace her latent powers and fulfill her destined role as a protector.

What sets "SARE" apart is its deep integration of Jewish mysticism and family legacy. Sare's powers are not random; they are tied to her lineage, embodied in a Star of David amulet passed down through generations. This connection to heritage adds a layer of emotional depth rarely seen in fantasy for young adults, making the story not just about external battles but also about internal growth and the weight of inherited responsibility.

Siskind's background as a musician and songwriter infuses the novella with a unique creative energy. The SARE universe was initially introduced through his original songs, including "Daydream Dragon" and "Daydream Dragon II: Return to Hidden Hill," which serve as narrative extensions of the book's themes. These tracks, available on YouTube, expand the mythology beyond the printed page, offering readers a multi-sensory experience that bridges music and literature.

The author's cross-disciplinary approach has roots in his earlier work. With his wife Karen and daughter Sarah, Siskind co-created the Honabeats children's book series, which has been praised for its inventive wordplay and rhythmic storytelling. A reviewer on OnlineBookClub awarded a five-star rating to "Honabeats Says: Crazy Words!," highlighting the creativity behind its invented words. This earlier success demonstrates Siskind's ability to craft engaging narratives that resonate across age groups.

"SARE" is poised to appeal to fans of fantasy adventure, portal stories, and dragon lore, as well as readers who appreciate strong young heroines and family secrets. Its concise novella format makes it an accessible entry point into what Siskind plans to develop into a larger series. As the first installment, it lays a solid foundation for a rich, multi-layered mythology that promises to unfold in future works.

The book's release marks a significant expansion of Siskind's creative portfolio, moving from children's literature into the realm of young adult fantasy. His ability to weave together music, narrative, and personal history into a cohesive story is a testament to his versatility as a storyteller. For those seeking a fresh take on the fantasy genre, "SARE" offers a compelling blend of magic, adventure, and heartfelt emotion that is sure to captivate readers.