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Author & Encourager

In times past those suffering from cyclical dementia were frequently referred to as suffering from "lunar madness". The book's title, Storms on the Sea of Tranquility is an allusion to that practice. The Sea of Tranquility is of course a geographical feature of our moon. Ironically, those suffering from lunar madness frequently lived a pattern of near normal tranquility that was interrupted cyclically by angry storms of manic madness or deep depression. The book follows the life of a young lady, one Mae Bailey as she struggles with an untreated mental illness. Her family, like most families of the 1950's feared the stigma that a mentally ill family member might bring upon them. They failed to acknowledge her disease and instead covered up her irrational behavior in her manic cycles and the deep depression that also often followed. Ultimately, Mae ends up deserted by both of the men who have fathered her children. Alone and very troubled she and her children enter the welfare system. As she slides deeper into alcoholism, prostitution and a life plagued by mental illness she loses her children to foster care. The book follows the journey that her children travel as they go through the foster care system. It chronicles the difficulties for both the foster children and their foster parents as they travel the difficult path of foster care. The story tells of the heart wrenching separation of the children as two of them are adopted and the other left to survive in the system until he is grown. The book celebrates those more noble among us who reach out to intervene in the life of those most vulnerable among us, foster children. Although fictionalized, the experiences of the book are real life experiences, experienced by the author.

One of the best books I've read in years!

*Additional Reviews*

Not only is Mr. Fay a capable writer, but he builds characters that make you care about them. There are a lot of things in this book that will give you the chills and provoke outrage; but this is a book about overcoming adversity and the very real need for forgiveness and understanding. The book has both heroes and people who only act in their own self-interest. Ultimately, good does triumph over evil and and more than anything else you find yourself rooting for the main character. But you do wonder about those who might not have the strength to withstand these types of abuses and go on to live lives of poverty, substance abuse and worse. A thought provoking and enlightening read.        Scott C.

5-STAR "Reader" Reviews

Storms on the Sea of Tranquility

This book is truly a journey that takes the reader along with the young child, growing teen and adult man. The story rings true and the characters are real, just like people we have known in our own lives! Michael's tale is poignant, touching hearts with both sadness and delight--you can't help but cheer for him at the pluck and courage he shows, and grieve with him at the helplessness he feels and the losses he goes through as he journeys along. The author paints lovely pictures with words, yet brings the deeper thoughts on life and love and relationship out into the open, inviting the reader to ponder them along with him.

This is a wonderful must-read book. It gives a compassionate view into a couple of worlds where most of us have never ventured. But, most of all, it is the story of overcoming a cycle that traps many people in a life of shame and self hate: and the power of finding the strength to forgive.

Mark J - Kentucky
Jessica S - Maine

Eye opening and heart wrenching!! This book was both riveting and informative!! Skillfully written, it opened my eyes to the heartache and danger innocent children often endure in the foster care system!

Karen G - Nebraska

Awesome! I met the author, downloaded his book and couldn't put it down. He is a real nice guy who struggled through a time when life was not nice. He went through his journey and arrived on top. Amazing!!! I hope he reads this and knows this camper is happy she met him and read his book. May all be blessed with a great ending.

Cindy B - New York

Excellent Book! I really enjoyed this book. It's not generally what I would purchase, but I am glad that I did. It's truly one of those books where you can hardly wait to find out how things are going to end. Loved it.

RJ - Florida

Fantastic Read! Inspiring...a message about how all of us can impact the lives of others and help influence those around us who live with mental illness and its consequences.

True Profile of Foster Care - Fay does a great job of describing some typical foster care children's life that needs to be put out to the public. Great job of describing how children end up in the system...never to leave, while revealing the good and bad foster parents.

Sister Mary S - Colorado
Eddie P - Georgia

We are not merely hitchhikers taking a passing ride on planet Earth. We are so much more. When God contemplated the creation of humanity He spoke over us an immutable prophetic destiny: “Let us make man in our image and after our likeness.” God has a beautiful intention for us, one leading to an eternity of love and relationship with Him.

This book explores in a scripturally based and understandable manner some of the deepest and most profound questions all of us must ultimately answer. The answers to these questions are especially important in the times we live. They offer comfort, peace, and direction many have not fully considered.

Release Date: July 1st 2024

Author: Steven L. Fay - 616 Pages

My testimony is one of childhood challenges, foster care, abuse and survival that led me to the arms of Jesus. My story is actually an incredible testimony of God's goodness and grace in the midst of the failures and disappointments of those we look to for care and community. He was faithful to me...He will be faithful to you...

My Testimony...