Banished by Christy Monson

Banished Author Interview 

by Christy Monson

I was born in Medford, Oregon, but I now live in Ogden, Utah.

I love writing. It's my way to relax, escape from the stresses of daily life, and put the things I'm passionate about down on paper.

While I was working as a Marriage and Family Therapist, I had two Native American boys come for counseling. I suggested that they write a story about their culture. They began their narratives and told me that if they had to write a story, I should write one also. Long after the boys finished their counseling and their anecdotes, I was still working on mine. Dre (the main character) and I have been companions ever since.

I finished this manuscript about seven years ago and couldn't decide what to do with it. After it won 2nd Place in the Utah Arts Council Writing Contest, Children's Division I put it on the shelf because I was asked to complete several self help books on women's issues, children who have difficult life events, and family communication.

At the League of Utah Writer's Conference one September a couple of years ago, someone handed out applications for the Marilyn Brown Writing Contest at Utah Valley University. On a whim, I sent Banished in. It won first place, so I decided I had left it on the shelf long enough. It is available now on Amazon.

Back Cover:

Dre has waited twelve summers to become a man, but the chief banishes his uncle, his mother, and even Dre himself. Thrust into the desert, he struggles to protect himself and his mother from his drug-addicted uncle—and certain death in the barren land.

With only a golden eagle to guide him, Dre battles to find a source of food and water. Abuse from his uncle and trouble with a neighboring clan could destroy his chance for survival and keep him from finding his place in the world.  Dre must learn what real manhood is if he hopes to survive in the harsh environment.

Praise for Banished:

"Monson well deserves the title of storyteller, for she has truly captured the music echoing from Hopi tradition and culture." Marilyn Brown Award

Utah Valley University Marilyn Brown Award, 1st Place Winner

Utah Arts Council, 2nd Place Winner

About the Author: 

Christy Monson loves a good story—especially historical fiction. She established a successful counseling practice in Las Vegas, Nevada. Her books, Love, Hugs, and Hope: When Scary Things Happen and Becoming Free: A Woman's Guide To Internal Strength are published by Familius. Texting Through Time, A Trek with Brigham Young, and Texting Through Time, John Taylor and the Mystery Puzzle are published by Cedar Fort.

Links to buy Banished:

Click here to buy  Banished.  Available on Kindle or in paperback.

Free download November 20-22.

Congrats to Christy, my writing buddy.

Linda Garner