Welcome to another edition of Lisa Burton Radio. I’m your host, Lisa the robot girl, and I’m excited to be on the air in this time of national crisis.
Many of us are sequestered away right now, and that leaves room for a bit of reflection. I think we can all form an idea of what that’s like. Which brings me to my special guest today. “Welcome to the show, Jonah.”
“Hi, Lisa. Thanks for inviting me.”
“My bio says you’re alone on an island somewhere. To be honest, that sounds like a dream come true to many people. What can you tell us about that?”
“Oh, yeah, dream come true. Let me tell you about that. It’s anything but a paradise. The whole island is covered with tangled brush with thorns and stinging nettles. And that doesn’t even include the poisonous flowers that burn the skin horribly. But the monsters that inhabit this godforsaken place are the worse. They have long red fangs that glow and claws like that of a giant eagle. They threaten me at every turn. On top of the horrific dangers, the only food I can scrounge to eat is muddy fish and bugs.”
“I suppose most of us don’t think about the downside of being stranded like that. In our minds it’s all sunny beaches and coconut drinks. How did you wind up in such a place?”
“I lived on the streets for many years once I escaped from the orphanage. The city was huge, but I had a turf and controlled it with iron fists. Everyone who knew me feared the Wrath of Jonah. But, then I got arrested and convicted of my crimes. They gave me a choice. I could either be locked in a cement box beneath the ground or be exiled to this island. I chose the island. In hindsight, imprisonment might have been easier. Let me tell you more about the creatures. I was terrified of them at first. But I soon discovered a secret. You see, when they dropped me off on this island, they gave me a dagger and a few meager supplies. After the creatures had me cornered, and I couldn’t run anymore, I turned and prepared to die. I screamed at the top of my lungs and lunged toward them with the dagger drawn hoping I could take out at least one of them. To my surprise, they backed down and slunk back into the brush. After that, I try to keep my dagger handy at all times.
“But let me tell you about something else that just happened. I’ve been keeping track of the days I’ve been on this island for thirty-one days. Just this morning, I awoke to a loud thud outside my hut. Imagine my surprise when I poked my head out and found a package. I looked all around and could not see anyone or any means of it getting there.”
“Oh my God, someone has to be watching you. Don’t leave us hanging here, what was in the box?”
“Yeah, pretty creepy, huh? It was a burlap wrapped package and inside I was thrilled first of all, to find a package of dried Buffalo. I couldn’t wait to tear into that. It was really good. Then there were a few hygiene items, two books, a pencil and a note. One of the books was “The Four Agreements” and the other was a blank journal. Let me read you the note because it’s very puzzling. ‘There is only one way off this island. You must examine yourself, face your truths and make peace with your demons.’ Now, what do you make of that?”
“This sounds like one of those escape rooms. You know, where people pay money to solve the puzzle so they can escape. It’s fun.”
“Nothing fun about this. And, there’s more and perhaps the strangest of all. I heard footsteps outside my hut and was sure my imagination had gotten in overdrive. After all, I was alone and hadn’t seen any sign of another human since they dropped me off. But, then I heard it again and lunged out of my hut prepared to fight. Imagine my surprise when I saw a young boy around twelve standing there.”
“You mean there’s someone else stranded there, too? That was a lucky stroke.”
“Well, that’s just it. Titus isn’t stranded. He tells me he lives on the other side of the island where everything is lush and beautiful, but when he tried to take me through the portal to his home, legions of green slimy snakes blocked my way. He seems to be able to come and go, but I am not allowed to follow. So, he brings me fresh fruits and vegetables from his place. You can’t imagine how amazing that is. But, there’s something strange about this kid. He has some kind of magic. Webbing grows between his long fingers and he has luminescent green eyes that glow in a strange way. But, he’s a good kid and he’s helping me in lots of ways. He told me that his mother died, and his father disappeared. It seems that his father is a Wizard. When he tried to tell me about his father, a huge storm blew in and totally destroyed my hut. I grabbed my stuff and threw it into a duffel bag and pulled Titus along with me. He was in some kind of a trance. Finally, he snapped out of it and held a huge Amethyst Crystal up to his forehead and chanted some words. The storm immediately stopped.”
“That’s terrible, but at least you had each other to get through it all.”
“I suppose so. For the first time in my life, I felt the urge to protect someone other than myself. So, we made our way back to where my hut had been and to my surprise, there stood in its place a bigger and sturdier built shelter. And there is another package lying beside the door. Inside this package was another book, ‘The Dark Side of the Light Chasers,’ and another note that simply said, ‘Because you cared for someone other than yourself.’ The other weird part about the whole thing is that the ground that was covered in torrential rain a few minutes earlier was hard as a rock and dry. So, now I’m working my way through this book. Titus comes and goes, and I never know when he will appear, but we’ve grown close. I can’t imagine how all of this is going to end, but for the first time since I arrived here, I don’t scan the horizon every day for a boat coming to take me back home.”
“Oh, Jonah, this sounds like some kind of weird rehabilitation program to me. Dangerous and with no defined ending, but the reward kind of feels like a positive step. I hope you complete the program and can get back to your loved ones soon.”
“I have no loved ones to return to, Lisa. My mom was killed when I was very young. When I think about going back to my old turf, I know that I can’t be the same way I was before.”
“ So sorry to hear about your mother. I know I speak for all of our listeners today in wishing you the best of luck escaping from the island. Any last thoughts before we go off the air?”
“Maybe I don’t even want to go back to the mainland anymore. As long as Titus is here and my living conditions are better, I can be content. But I crave the magic that Titus has. Who knows? One day, he may be allowed to teach it to me. I’d like that. In the meantime, I’m going to make the best of the situation.”
“You can read all about Jonah and Titus in the book, Jonah, by Jan Sikes. I’ll post all the pertinents on the website after I go off the air.
“Don’t forget to use those sharing buttons today. I know Jan and Jonah would do it for you, when your character appears on the next Lisa Burton Radio.”
***
Blurb:
Fantasy meets reality when a young man is forced to choose his punishment for crimes committed. Jonah must decide between imprisonment in a concrete box beneath the earth or be exiled to a deserted, barren island. He chooses the island, but nothing can prepare him for the deadly creatures, and poisonous plants at every turn. Then there’s the maddening isolation that drives him to the brink of insanity. There is only one way off this island and it’s more difficult than anything he’s ever imagined. It’s much easier to face mortal danger than the demons within. Will he find redemption or another unexpected offer?
Purchase Link: http://a-fwd.com/asin-com=B086351ZQH
Jan Sikes openly admits that she never set out in life to be an author. But she had a story to tell. Not just any story, but a true story that rivals any fiction creation. You simply can’t make this stuff up. It all happened. She chose to create fictitious characters to tell the story through, and they bring the intricately woven tale to life in an entertaining way.
She released a series of music CDs to accompany the four biographical fiction books and then published a book of poetry and art to bring the story full circle.
And now that the story is told, this author can’t find a way to put down the pen. She continues to write fiction and has published many short stories with a series of novels waiting in the wings
JAN’S SOCIAL MEDIA CONTACTS:
WEBSITE: http://www.jansikes.com
BLOG: http://www.rijanjks.wordpress.com
TWITTER: http://www.twitter.com/rijanjks
Jan Sikes packs so much into this short story but it sounds like a great read!
LikeLiked by 3 people
Thanks for speaking up. Hope you’re doing well.
LikeLiked by 2 people
Don’t think we have been nobbled yet! Hopefully, it doesn’t know where we live!
LikeLiked by 3 people
I hope it never finds you.
LikeLiked by 3 people
From your mouth to God’s ears, Craig…
LikeLiked by 2 people
Thanks SO much Jaye and Anita! That is high praise coming from you. I appreciate you stopping by and leaving a comment!
LikeLiked by 3 people
My pleasure, Jan…
LikeLiked by 1 person
Reblogged this on Legends of Windemere.
LikeLiked by 3 people
Thanks for the help.
LikeLiked by 2 people
You’re welcome.
LikeLiked by 2 people
Thank you, Charles, for the reblog!!
LikeLiked by 2 people
During this time of social distancing, readers should relate to this character’s isolation.
LikeLiked by 4 people
That’s a good observation. I know it was written before the virus, but seems like a stroke of luck. Jan deserves one, just like everyone else.
LikeLiked by 2 people
You make a GREAT point, Sharon. I think many are experiencing some of the same emotions that Jonah did, as we move forward with our restrictions. Thank you for stopping by. Stay safe!
LikeLiked by 3 people
I’d choose the island also. The thought of being in a concrete box underground suffocates claustrophobic me. Great and congrats on the new release, Jan!
LikeLiked by 4 people
Great interview, lol.
LikeLiked by 2 people
Glad you enjoyed it.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thank you, Teri!
LikeLiked by 3 people
Thanks, Teri.
LikeLiked by 1 person
I totally agree, Teri. And as Jonah’s backstory is revealed, he was often locked in a small dark closet in the orphanage for punishment. So, that motivated him to choose the island. Thank you for stopping by and leaving a comment!
LikeLiked by 3 people
Thank you, Craig and Lisa, for giving Jonah a platform today! I appreciate the support!
LikeLiked by 2 people
Come back any time. Hope we can draw some attention today.
LikeLiked by 2 people
That’s always the goal! 🙂
LikeLiked by 2 people
Reblogged this on Writing and Music and commented:
Lisa Burton is interviewing Jonah on her radio show today! Please stop by and take a look! It’s a great Q&A!
LikeLiked by 2 people
What a fascinating premise. I’m totally hooked. All the best, Jan. Thanks, Craig and Lisa.
LikeLiked by 3 people
Thank you, Staci.
LikeLiked by 2 people
Whoo Hoo! Music to my ears, Staci! Thank you for stopping by!
LikeLiked by 3 people
I would have went with the island as well. He had to know it wouldn’t be that simple. But being in a box underground would be worse in my opinion. Sounds like a good read. Stay Safe!!
LikeLiked by 3 people
Seems like the better choice, even if it isn’t the nicest island.
LikeLiked by 3 people
Thanks for your comment, Michele! I agree. I would have chosen the island as well. The unknown is sometimes more attractive than the known!
LikeLiked by 3 people
I enjoyed this story and wish Jan well. Good interview too.
LikeLiked by 3 people
Thanks for saying so here.
LikeLiked by 3 people
Thank you, John! I appreciate you taking the time to read “Jonah!”
LikeLiked by 3 people
What an intriguing premise. Reminds me a little of Craig’s story The Yak–a personal journey of life lessons. Good luck with this!
LikeLiked by 3 people
Both characters definitely show growth through their stories. Thanks for stopping over.
LikeLiked by 2 people
That is one of Craig’s books I haven’t read yet, but it’s on my Kindle. Thank you for your comment, Judi! I hope you’ll check out Jonah!
LikeLiked by 2 people
Intriguing story, Jan. I’m ready to read! Thank you, Craig, for the great interview.
LikeLiked by 3 people
Thanks, Gwen.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Wonderful, Gwen! I do hope you enjoy the story! Thank you for leaving a comment!
LikeLiked by 2 people
Hi, Craig and Jan! Oh my, this story reads fascinating, and I’m so intrigued by Jonah. I can’t wait to read this story, Jan! Thank you!
LikeLiked by 3 people
Wonderful to hear, Vashti! I truly hope you enjoy the story, and thank you so much for stopping by and leaving a comment!
LikeLiked by 3 people
It’s my pleasure, Jan. 🙂
LikeLiked by 1 person
I love hearing that the interview work. Thank you.
LikeLiked by 2 people
These character interviews are great, Craig. Thanks for doing them.
LikeLiked by 2 people
I try to keep them available on request. Keep me in mind.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Of course. Always. I was thinking of one for my new book. 😉
LikeLiked by 1 person
Hit me up when you’re ready.
LikeLiked by 1 person
This doesn’t sound like an easy place to survive, Lisa. I’ll take my chances in my own home, virus or not. A fabulous interview with Jonah.
LikeLiked by 3 people
I think that’s a great idea, Robbie! Thanks so much for stopping by!
LikeLiked by 2 people
Thanks, Robbie.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Great interview:) i loved this short story.
LikeLiked by 3 people
Thank you, Denise!! I appreciate you taking the time to read and review Jonah!
LikeLiked by 3 people
Thanks for sharing that here.
LikeLiked by 3 people
Great interview, Craig and Jan. What a fascinating story and dilemma. When there are limited to two evil choices. One must try to choose the lesser one. The story is so intriguing, Jan. Best wishes to you!
LikeLiked by 3 people
Thanks, Miriam. I’m amazed at the creativity that takes this slot. Glad you enjoyed the post.
LikeLiked by 3 people
I totally enjoyed it, Craig!
LikeLiked by 3 people
Thank you so much for your comment, Miriam! I hope Jonah has intrigued you enough to pick up your copy!
LikeLiked by 3 people
Of course, Jan. Lovely post!
LikeLiked by 2 people
Great interview! The book sounds fantastic! I look forward to reading it. 😊
LikeLiked by 3 people
Thank you, Yvette.
LikeLiked by 2 people
Thank you, Yvette! I truly hope you enjoy it!
LikeLiked by 3 people
Reblogged this on Author Don Massenzio and commented:
Check out Jonah on another installment of Lisa Burton Radio as featured on the Entertaining Stories Blog.
LikeLiked by 3 people
Thanks again, Don.
LikeLiked by 2 people
You’re welcome.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thanks a million for the reblog, Don!
LikeLiked by 2 people
You’re welcome.
LikeLike
Reblogged this on Musings on Life & Experience and commented:
A fanciful and adventurous short story.
LikeLiked by 3 people
Thanks for sharing.
LikeLiked by 2 people
Thank you SO much for the reblog, Patricia!
LikeLiked by 2 people
Holy Moly! This sounds great! Thanks, Lisa, for taking the time to share with us, and Jan, I’m heading off to grab a copy right now! 🙂
LikeLiked by 3 people
I love it when the interviews work like that. Thanks, Marcia.
LikeLiked by 2 people
Lisa has a way of bringing out the BEST in writers, doesn’t she? (Probably everyone else, too!) 😀 Already grabbed my copy.
LikeLiked by 2 people
Thank you, Marcia! I sincerely hope you enjoy the story and the message behind it!
LikeLiked by 2 people
It’s on my Kindle now, and the last few weeks, I’ve been reading short stories and novellas quite often, so won’t be too long before I give it a go. 🙂
LikeLiked by 2 people
Great interview! I loved Jan’s A Soldier’s Children, and I’ve added this one to my reading list. Thanks for sharing, Craig. Best of luck, Jan 😊
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thank you, Harmony. It’s nice to know Lisa’s interviews still work.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thank you, Harmony! I appreciate you!
LikeLiked by 1 person
I love the setup, Jan. Talk about literally learning to be a better person!
LikeLiked by 2 people
Thank you for stopping by and leaving a comment, Deby!
LikeLiked by 1 person
I’d definitely take the island, no debate! 🙂
I have Jonah downloaded on my Kindle and am looking forward to reading it. Jan always tells a great tale.
Nice interview today. Congrats all around!
LikeLiked by 2 people
Thank you for stopping by and leaving a comment, Mae! Your words mean so much to me! Take care and stay safe!
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thank you, Mae.
LikeLike
I have this one on my reading list. It sounds like a great diversion from reality. 🙂 Congrats to Jan!
LikeLiked by 2 people
Thank you for stopping by.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thank you, Diana! Yes, it is somewhat a diversion and somewhat of a parallel. Hang in there!
LikeLiked by 2 people
Reblogged this on Archer's Aim and commented:
This vis an interesting interview by Lisa Burton about a rather intriguing book. Have a look…
LikeLiked by 1 person
WOW! This sounds exciting and Lisa sure seems to know how to communicate with Jonah very well.
LikeLiked by 2 people
Hi, Rachel! Thank you so much for stopping by for Lisa’s always entertaining radio show! I agree that she knows how to interview her guests quite well!
LikeLiked by 2 people
Indeed! 🙂
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thanks, Rachel. Glad you enjoyed it.
LikeLiked by 2 people