Jonathan's Travails

Jonathan's Travails is a fictional account of the aftermath of the events of September 11 for a seven year old boy named Jonathan. Unexpected good comes through the many trials he faces and hope prevails in the darkest of circumstances.

The world of young Jonathan Taylor is suddenly shattered by the tragic events of September 11, 2001. His normal happy and secure life in New York City is transplanted to the shores of California, thousands of miles away from home. When Jonathan's father dies in the World Trade Center attacks, he is sent to the only person left to care for him- his grandfather, Joe, who lives in San Francisco and is the first mate of a tug boat, the Nellie-B. Trouble does not end for him in his fragile state of vulnerability as an attempt is made to kidnap him and his grandfather must try to rescue him. Jonathan possesses an undaunted spirit that allows him to face the many trials he encounters. In his new surroundings he finds the true meaning of family, courage, and hope. As a result of Jonathan's circumstances, unexpected good comes to his life and the lives of others who meet him.

Don McCarty's background for writing his book begins with his experiences as a farm boy when he built a rowboat and gained his early rowing skills on the waters of Lake Erie. His love for the water later lead him as an adult to construct a full-size sail boat, named Evenstar, that he sailed in the Pacific Ocean off the shores of California and Mexico. He now resides in Southern California retired from careers in art, engineering, and law. He has five grown children, one deceased after battling cancer. In addition to writing he has also now enjoys flying and holds a private pilot license.