[New Mexico, Santa Fe], [11-21-2024] – K. Prater and Salodius Byrd's debut novel, Tessa: Eyes on the World, is inspired by the true story of Tessa Marie Horan. The book delves into themes of spiritual growth, family obligations, and social justice.
The book follows the adventures of Tessa, a woman who sets out on a quest for spiritual and moral discipline in India and Nepal. A few months before her departure, her brother suffered a severe injury, leaving him with paraplegia.
As she travels around the world, Tessa soon becomes jolted by the harsh realities of the world. She comes across instances where her moral compass pushes her to step against the atrocities that rule the world.
Determined to make a difference, Tessa joins the Peace Corps after college. Her assignment in a remote village in Tonga brings her closer to the realities of life. Throughout her service, she reflects on the reasons behind her decision to leave her family and faces the unforeseen consequences of her choices.
Tessa: Eyes on the World is a powerful exploration of the conflicts between personal aspirations and global responsibilities. The novel invites readers to reexamine their values and the impact of their actions on the world.
About Authors
Kristena Prater lives in Santa Fe, New Mexico, where she has been writing poetry since she was eleven. Her diverse career includes roles as an art therapist, mask maker, freelance writer, and death doula. Prater is also a mother of four and grandmother to six boys. She co-wrote this novel with Salodius Byrd, blending real-life experiences into a fictional narrative.
Salodius Byrd, who resides in Spain's Basque Country and frequently visits the U.S. and Canada, is a reclusive ghostwriter. She values her privacy and avoids the spotlight, focusing on writing through her extensive life experiences. Byrd spent years interviewing those close to Tessa, a young woman known for her compassion and inclusiveness. This novel is dedicated to Tessa's family and friends, honoring their inspiration and connection to her.
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Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Tessa-Eyes-World-Kristena-Prater/dp/1958711780