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Rise of the Archaea: Magic, monsters, and a sprinkle of science
Cranbrook author publishes a fantasy novel for middle-grade readers
Cranbrook resident Jamie Smithson, (pen name J.J. Smithson), recently released his first middle-grade fantasy chapter book – Rise of the Archaea.
“Rise of the Archaea is for ages eight plus,” Smithson said. “The book has magic, monsters, and positive messages about reconnecting with nature and facing your fears.”
Smithson has a Bachelor’s degree in Conservation Biology, and another degree in Education, which helps him blend interesting science with compelling storytelling.
When he worked as a teacher-on-call for School District No. 5, he loved reading chapter books aloud to the class and having kids imagine their own endings.
“The read-aloud experiences inspired me to write this book,” he said. “The students would always be so engaged with the stories and wouldn’t want me to stop reading.”
Smithson enjoys exploring the rivers and mountains around Cranbrook, and wanted to bring that enjoyment of nature to others through Rise of the Archaea.
“The story is set in the mountains similar to the East Kootenay,” he said. “The story follows two siblings, Everett and Whitney, who set out in search of the cave their eccentric grandfather warned them about. After finding the cave, they get more than they bargained for. They learn the lake inside the cave is a prison for monsters (called Archaea) – and the Archaea are waking up!”
The tale explores how, with the help of some mysterious magic-wielding rescuers, the children must race down the mountain to warn humanity of the impending doom. Along the way, Everett must face one of his greatest fears.
Rise of the Archaea is available at most online bookstores (links can be found at www.jjsmithsonbooks.com/riseofthearchaea), locally at Huckleberry Books and Bumbletree, and it is also available at the Cranbrook and Creston Public Libraries.
Smithson tested the story by reading to the toughest crowd; his own children.
He was also hosted by TM Roberts to do an author visit and reading for Grades 3-6. He is grateful to Principal Sartorel and teacher librarian Joanna Sokolic for organizing it.
Smithson would be happy to visit other schools in Cranbrook to read the opening chapter to students in Grades 3 to 6.
Smithson can be reached by Email: [email protected] or followed on Instagram and Facebook: @jjsmithsonbooks.
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