project 1: fictional book series

this project is a series of fables called “words of wisdom from a dead language.” the series explores relevant lessons based on latin phrases.

book 1: “the sycamore tree”

summary: a fable about a friendship between a tree and a girl that begins mysteriously in the early 1800s. over time the tree discovers that even though self-awareness is an indescribably wonderful gift, it also has negative consequences. consequences that can last for hundreds of years.

the ancient wisdom explored is dum spiro spero, “while i breathe, i hope.”

status: first draft completed. needs rewrite.

book 2: “the census taker”

summary: a fable about a woman who moves to a small rural community and learns about her new neighbors as a census taker. the quirky but likable stranger gathers more information than the government requires, but in an effort to help, not harm.

The ancient wisdom explored is ut ameris, amabilis esto, “if you want to be loved, be lovable.”

status: first draft in progress.

book 3: “the hospice chaplain”

summary: a fable about a hospice chaplain who tries to help patients grappling with fears of what lies ahead and regrets about how they lived their lives. while the chaplain is relentlessly kind and wise, she harbors fears and regrets of her own.

The ancient wisdom explored is, vivamus, moriendum est, “let us live, since we must die.”

status: future.