First-time Novelist Brings Dark Past to Life

Jan. 18, 2008 - PRLog -- Nel Rand’s decision to begin writing her first novel wasn’t necessarily a conscious one. With what began as an outlet for creative expression, naturally evolved into a story fabricated by her own life journey in Rand’s recently published novel, Mississippi Flyway.

Set in 1967 in the basin of the Mississippi River, Mississippi Flyway is the story of Ellie Moon, who goes on a three-week road trip with her estranged father, Tiny, conman and famous gambler. They travel along the Mississippi River from St. Louis south to New Orleans, while being chased by a crazed Kentucky sheriff seeking revenge on Tiny. Amidst poker games, a near drowning in the Mississippi River and a Voodoo ceremony, Ellie recollects her veiled and dark childhood experiences; realizing remembrance is the first step to forgiveness.

With the setting of Mississippi Flyway as the landscape of Rand’s youth, her fond, but often times disturbing childhood memories easily paint an authentic picture from start to finish. The affairs that shaped Rand’s own life, such as sexual abuse by her father and racial prejudices in segregated southern society, become prominent themes experienced by the protagonist. The characters, although largely altered, are a conglomeration of people Rand has known throughout her life, giving each a very real and lifelike quality.

“Even though it was not a conscious intent, I think the story deals with questions we all ask ourselves.  ‘Why are we here? What are the import ant things to gain from living a life? How do we deal with our losses?’” states Rand. “I think good fiction can be, not only highly entertaining, but can teach us a little more about ourselves as human beings and remind us of our humanity.”

A beautifully written novel, Mississippi Flyway engages readers from start to finish in a very personal, haunting, yet entertaining story of self-discovery. Rand’s dynamic character development and intriguing plot line takes readers on a thought-provoking adventure and leaves them with feelings of hope for those suffering from pain and hardship.

About the Author
Nel Rand is a former art therapist, and has been a studio painter and a fiber artist for half a century. Rand was born in Missouri and grew up in southern Illinois and western Kentucky, and currently resides in Oregon.

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