Press release for The Wayfaring Stranger by Curt Iles

*******************For Immediate Release***************
January 30, 2008

Attachment: Cover shot of novel/Text of press release

Headline: Louisiana author pens historical fiction, The Wayfaring Stranger

The Wayfaring Stranger, a historical novel, is the sixth book by Louisiana author Curt Iles.

This love story details the intertwining of the lives of two teenagers, Joseph Moore and Eliza Clark. Set in the mid-nineteenth century, the story begins with Joseph escaping from Ireland as a stowaway on a ship. At this same time, Eliza lives in the piney woods of western Louisiana in an area called “No Man’s Land.”

In alternating chapters, we learn about Eliza’s life among her mysterious and isolated clan called “Redbones” as well as follow Joseph’s winding journey through New Orleans and eventually into pioneer Louisiana. This contrasting and comparison of Ireland and the piney woods is woven throughout this page-turning book.

Joseph is drawn toward this area because of the opportunities for freedom and land ownership—things unavailable to him in Ireland. The Wayfaring Stranger chronicles Joseph’s journey from “being bitter to becoming better.” This recurring theme is the source of the book’s theme: “Because a journey can be much more than just miles.”

Reviewer Ben Corda comments on Eliza’s journey: “Eliza Clark, already a resident of Louisiana, is on more of an emotional journey. She is faced with struggles of her own and tries to make the best of them. These two separate journeys become one as she and Joseph meet under the long leaf pines that Eliza loves so much.”

Joseph and Eliza’s lives bisect at a crucial time in the history of this area as a timber company seeks to drive out the isolated settlers. Joseph’s status as an outsider tests their developing relationship and hard choices must be made. The culmination of this story features the final conflict testing this relationship.

The author answered these questions on The Wayfaring Stranger:

Q. What are readers enjoying most about your novel?
This book is about a journey, and everyone loves hearing about other people’s journeys. In addition, the best journeys are those of the heart, not just of the feet. That is why the story of Joseph’s journey from Ireland to Louisiana is gripping readers.

Q. Where did the idea for this book come from?
As a boy, I heard the story of Joseph Moore’s journey from Ireland from his grandson (my great-grandfather). Additionally, I’ve always been fascinated with the Redbone culture and the stories of so many of my wonderful friends among these fascinating people.

Q. What was Louisiana’s “No Man’s Land”?
It is the historical name given to our part of western Louisiana. During Spanish and French ownership of the adjoining territories, the land between the Sabine and Calcasieu Rivers was designated as a “No Man’s Land” or “Neutral Strip” where no settlers, governments, or armies would occupy. Later the U.S. and Spain continued this treaty. Of course, pioneers of all backgrounds and cultures still filtered in and settled.

Q. What types of readers are enjoying your newest book?
Every age from teenagers on are reading this family-themed book which has sold over 1200 copies since its November release. I’m especially pleased with the reception the book is getting among schools, libraries, churches, and among book clubs.


About the author
Curt Iles lives in his hometown of Dry Creek, Louisiana. He and his wife, DeDe, are the parents of three sons and two grandsons. Before entering his present career as an author/speaker, he served as a teacher, principal, and youth camp manager. He can be reached at curtiles@aol.com

To read sample chapters, order autographed copies, and learn more, visit http://www.creekbank.net/ or call toll free 1 866 520 -1947

Book specifics:
210 pages Historical Fiction Trade Paperback
Publisher: Creekbank Stories Cost: $15.00 plus $3.00 shipping

This is an ad appearing in The Baptist Message next week. It was designed by Chad Smith with The Touch Studios.