Page 58 - Mosaic Digest Magazine

57 II MOSAIC DIGEST
LITERATURE
Exploring Life, Mythology, And R edemption
John J Blenkush Weaves a Tapestry of Myth, Emotion, and Adventure Through His Award- Winning Novels
Author John J Blenkush blends life experiences, mythology, and emotion to craft intricate novels, from exploring Mount Shasta’s mysticism to weaving heartfelt stories of redemption and relatable characters like Julissa and Sandman.
JEDITOR’S DESK LONDON John J Blenkush’s books
are a remarkable blend of vivid imagination, compelling characters, and deeply emotional storytelling. Whether delving into ancient myths or exploring timeless human experiences, his novels captivate readers with intricate plots, rich detail, and profound themes. From the award- winning ‘Solstice Series’ to heartfelt standalones like ‘Sandman of Caye Caulker’, Blenkush masterfully weaves tales that linger with readers long after the final page. His ability to balance fantastical elements with raw human emotion solidifies his place as an extraordinary storyteller.
ohn J. Blenkush, the celebrated author of the Solstice Series and other critically acclaimed works, has lived a life as multifaceted as his novels. From a dynamic career
his father after a childhood shaped by separation. The inspiration for the titular Sandman came from a vivid image: “A man, old and weathered by sea and sun, standing hip deep in the ocean, digging and loading sand into a dugout begs the question, why?” From there, the narrative evolved into a tale of redemption, with Blenkush’s sensitive perspective adding a heartfelt touch.
Mythology Meets Modernity in the Solstice Series
The award-winning Solstice Series is a
true testament to Blenkush’s ability to blend mythology with modern-day storytelling. Ancient civilizations like the Lemurians and Atlanteans are woven into modern conflicts, a creative endeavor sparked by his fascination with the mystical Mount Shasta and its legends. Blenkush described balancing these fantastical elements with relatable human experiences as a process that took years to perfect. “It’s tricky balancing magic with realism, and I think time is key,” he said.
His dedication to the craft is evident, as he recently gave the series a third revision in 2024, with the next installment, The Circle of Life, already brewing.
Julissa’s Heroic Arc in Solstice Sacrifice
In the Solstice Series, Blenkush introduces readers to Julissa, a 16-year-old whose life is shattered and reshaped through a series
of world-altering events. Her character’s development is informed by Blenkush’s observations of teens’ emotional volatility, gained through years working with high school and college students. “Through diverse characters, [Julissa is] exposed to the good and the bad. [She’s forced to] make choices and grow physically, emotionally, and psychologically,” he explained.
in aeronautics, engineering, and construction to his current passions for writing, wood- working, and spending time with family in Northern California, Blenkush’s journey is one marked by imagination, exploration, and heartfelt storytelling.
In an interview originally featured in Reader’s House Magazine, Blenkush provided insight into the experiences and inspirations that have shaped his literary works.
From Engineer to Novelist: Drawing from Life’s Journey
With a career spanning aeronautics, engineering, and construction, Blenkush’s storytelling draws heavily from his personal experiences. “Concrete detail is key for
great novels while imagination is the engine that fleshes out a novel, and one has to live life to truly envision it,” he revealed. His adventurous spirit has carried him across
the globe—to places like New Zealand,
the South Pole, and Europe—where he immersed himself in diverse cultures, storing impressions that would later enrich his writing.
Themes of Redemption and Reflection in
Sandman of Caye Caulker
Blenkush’s emotional depth resonates in novels like Sandman of Caye Caulker, where themes of forgiveness and complex familial relationships take center stage. Reflecting
on the father-son dynamic explored in the story, Blenkush shared personal experiences influenced by his own relationship with