The Seldith Chronicles

The ‘Seldith’ are a clan of forest elves no taller than a mushroom. These secretive, nomadic creatures live, love and survive in the woods all around us. Among elves, the Seldith are unique; their clans worship The Truth and they maintain a multi-volume Book of Truth which catalogs all known Truths gathered over the millennia. These pages include stories of their earliest existence and first-hand accounts of their exploits as well as the Truths by which they all live. The Seldith elders preach…

If something is not dutifully recorded in The Book of Truth, it’s not The Truth and does not exist.

Those that do not accept The Truth are banished. Imagine the Seldith’s world where The Truth, once worshiped, is now rewritten and twisted by those with dark, selfish motives. More and more heretics are being exiled and youngsters are forced to take on their parent’s roles, regardless of the danger. To make matters worse, their home has been discovered by ‘umans’ who threaten the Seldith’s very existence. As they have for millennia, they are forced to return to their nomadic ways and retreat into the forest. Once a magical place, a wonderful place, their land is now fraught with danger, intrigue, and an uncertain future.

The Series

The Seldith Chronicles currently includes three books: The Owl Wrangler, Guardians of the Sacred Seven and Quest for The Truth which chronicle the adventures of Hisbil, the teenage son of Gollsaer, the Seldith clan’s Owl Wrangler. It was his job is to venture into the forest and ‘awaken’ wild owls. Someday, Hisbil will have to take on his father’s role—it’s his herditas, but Gollsaer has disappeared, long before Hisbil has been taught his father’s spells. When the Seldith Council of Truth demands that he take up his father’s wand, Hisbil realizes that he faces almost certain death. And so the story begins.

The Underlying Story

While on the surface, some might see The Seldith Chronicles as an exciting young-adult story—and it is. But behind the scenes, readers discover a biting commentary on a society that worships the truth but doesn’t always accept it—even when it’s staring them in the face.

To make this worthwhile reading, and stretch reading skills, the books use words drawn from standardized high-school vocabulary references. In addition, book clubs have found quite a bit to discuss in regard to women’s and young-adult roles in society as well as acceptance of media portrayal of current and past events.

Author Recommendations:

Pam Binder, President and Program Director, Pacific Northwest Writers Association (PNWA)
“I have had the honor of watching William grow as an author and storyteller during our summer conferences and monthly meetings. William is a strong writer with a compelling, fast paced story. In the tradition of the novel, Watership Down, the Owl Wrangler is a must read for those who enjoy adventure with a splash of fantasy.”

Reviews:

Bronson  “Where does this Vietnam-era combat helicopter pilot come up with such an imaginative story line? Wonderful stories, well told and impossible to put down. ‘The Owl Wrangler’ will introduce you to the Seldith’s world, where your imagination will learn to fly again. ‘Guardians’ will expand their world as you find yourself cheering those that follow and protect the truth. Mr. Vaughn is a gifted storyteller who grips your attention from the first sentence and leaves you wanting more. I look forward to reading the final book of this wonderful trilogy.”

FarmMom:  “As a parent of two girls, 8 and 11, I am selective of what reading material I allow them to read. This book meets with my complete approval and was a very enjoyable read for me as well. The story line is well developed and draws the reader to want to know more about the characters and find out what is going to happen to them as the plot unfolds. The book is full of fun characters and surprising twists sure to entertain boys and girls alike! The more adult political themes are transparent to the kids, but brings additional complexity to the adult readers. The children in the story learn important life lessons as they solve the, many times life-threatening, challenges that they face. I would recommend that you buy this book today! ”

Dyan M. Garcia: “The Owl Wrangler is a great book for the family to enjoy. The book is full of symbolism that makes it interesting to read. The characters are fun and well-rounded, and the storyline is engaging. We can’t wait for the second book! ”

Kay Kendrick: “Thoroughly enjoyed reading The Owl Wrangler on my Kindle. There was one thing I didn’t like. The sequel isn’t ready yet. :)”

Mark Hansen: “What a wonderful book! I am thoroughly enjoying the experience and trying not to hurry to get to the next page, but it is damned difficult. You spin quite a yarn, my friend and it will truly go big. Congratulations.”