J.D. is a storyteller who seamlessly weaves compelling narratives with an unmatched flair for captivating his readers. As an author, he has crafted worlds that spark the imagination and characters that stay with you long after the final page is turned. J.D.’s literary journey is a testament to his passion for storytelling, his dedication to his craft, and his ability to connect with audiences on a deeply personal level. His works reflect not just creativity but a deep understanding of human emotion and the power of a well-told tale.

J D Mankowski Headshot

Beyond his books, J.D. is a charismatic and engaging individual who brings his energy and enthusiasm to every conversation. Whether he’s sharing insights into his creative process, recounting the inspiration behind his stories, or offering advice to aspiring writers, J.D.’s passion shines through. With a unique perspective on the art of storytelling and an unyielding drive to inspire, he’s a standout voice in the literary world and a true delight to have as a guest.

Chris:
Welcome back to Coffee on the Couch, where the coffee is always dark and the conversations are always enlightening.

Today, we’re diving into the imaginative world of storytelling with someone who knows a thing or two about crafting epic adventures. J.D. Mankowski, the brilliant mind behind the Tales from Elderland series, joins us for a deep dive into his journey as an author and his much-anticipated third installment, The Stone King.

Grab your favorite cup, settle in, and get ready for an inspiring conversation with one of the most engaging voices in fantasy fiction.

Chris:
So welcome, J.D.

J.D.:
Hello, Chris.

J.D:
How are you today?

Chris:
Doing well, doing well. I got my coffee here, so all is right in the world.

J.D:
Same as well. I obviously, with no video footage, you wouldn’t be able to see, but it’s the Bangor Authors Award for Writing that I received last year in conjunction to a short story written and published in Rivers of Ink: Literary Reflections on the Penobscot. For those who are Maine listeners, it’s definitely worth a gander. I don’t get any money for it; it’s just a wonderful book full of Maine authors. So that’s one of my prize mug possessions—it’s both trophy and drinking ware.

Chris.:
Yeah.

Chris:
I’ve got a different cup than I usually have when I’m recording, but that’s because my other ones are packed away. So this one says, Man of God, 1 Timothy 6:11.

J.D.:
Okay, fantastic.

Chris:
Usually, the coffee cup that I have that I’m drinking while I’m recording says, Mandate: Minding Your Own Business.

J.D.:
That’s a good one.

Chris:
Yep.
______________________
Chris:
So, J.D., let’s talk about The Stone King. What inspired this third installment, and how does it tie together the journey you’ve taken readers on throughout the Tales from Elderlands series?

J.D.:
Yeah, I think the best place to start is by establishing the series as a whole. The Tales from Elderlands series is a coming-of-age fantasy series, akin to something like Percy Jackson or The Chronicles of Narnia. Not that I would ever claim my books hold a light to such fantastic installments of fantasy.

That being said, Tales from Elderlands begins with The Silver Scepter, which follows the story of young Deirdre Hart and James, who venture off into a world of fantasy and misadventure. Poor Deirdre, who is always trying to do the right thing and is very prim and proper, accidentally runs away from home, accidentally steals a chocolate cake, and accidentally finds herself with a hoard full of treasure. And, well, without spoiling too much, a lot of it is James’s fault.

J D Mankowski Headshot

That story then spins out into book two, The Skyrunner’s Captain, where we jump 10 years ahead. In that book, we re-meet Deirdre as an adult, and we start to see how the things she did as a kid have shaped her journey and the challenges she faces now.

The Stone King, on the other hand, follows James 10 years after the events of The Silver Scepter. So, in some crafty ways, you could read book one, then book three, and then book two—or you could go in the more traditional order of book one, book two, and then book three.