Online for Authors Episode 12-30-25

​The Legend Lives: A Family Saga Wrapped in Magic and History with Author Joseph Bolton

In my recent interview on Online for Authors, I had the pleasure of speaking with Joseph Bolton, the brilliant mind behind the captivating series "Old Grandmother's Tree." Joseph's literary journey is a fascinating blend of family history, mythology, and vivid illustrations, making his work a must-read for authors and readers alike who are intrigued by rich folklore and storytelling.

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A Journey Through Time and Ancestry
Joseph Bolton's "Old Grandmother's Tree" series began as a deep dive into his genealogy, tracing back to his French Canadian and Algonquin roots. It draws inspiration from a mix of historic documentation and his own creative flair, weaving together real-life characters with enchanting folklore. The series currently spans three volumes, with each installment enriching the narrative tapestry: "Old Grandmother's Tree Volume One," "Old Grandmother's Tree Volume Two," and "The Dance of Creation," which he considers volume three.

Folklore and Magic: Bringing Stories to Life
One aspect that sets Joseph's work apart is his innovative use of trickster animals, inspired by Native American folklore. These characters add a layer of whimsy and mischief, infusing the series with a dynamic element that complements the real historic figures within his stories. Joseph’s passion for folklore and mythology shines through, as he skillfully blends these elements into his family saga.

The Power of Collaboration
A key highlight from our discussion was Joseph’s collaborative process with illustrator Natasha Pelley-Smith and storyboard artist Masami F. Kiyono. His dedication to ensuring that each illustration resonates with the story’s essence is a testament to the depth and intricacy involved in crafting the series. It’s this attention to detail that makes each book a visual feast, capturing the reader’s attention with almost 600 vivid illustrations.

What's Next?
Looking forward, Joseph shared his plans for a fourth volume, offering a poignant exploration of his ancestor's tragic yet inspiring life story. This upcoming volume promises to be a heartfelt conclusion to a significant chapter of the series, projected for release in Spring 2027.

Moreover, he teased the potential for more stories within this universe and hinted at a future graphic novel project set in a futuristic world. This expansion shows Joseph’s commitment to building an expansive narrative world that transcends time and generations.

Embracing the Creative Process
For authors, Joseph’s journey underscores the importance of patience and perseverance in the creative process. His dedication to authenticity, both in narrative and visual representation, serves as a powerful reminder of the collaborative nature of storytelling.

His work not only highlights the richness of his cultural heritage but also serves as a beacon for other authors looking to explore their roots through fiction. As he continues to develop this world, Joseph remains hopeful for a future adaptation of his series, envisioning it on platforms like Netflix or Apple TV, thanks to its richly storyboarded format.

Join us on the Novels N Latte Book Club on Facebook to continue the conversation, where you can enter to win signed copies of Joseph Bolton's enthralling series. Joseph’s work stands as a vibrant tapestry of history, magic, and cultural insight—a true inspiration for authors who are passionate about storytelling. Don't miss out on these remarkable books, and make sure to leave a review to support the authors bringing such incredible worlds to life.

Purchase Old Grandmother's Tree on Amazon:
Paperback: https://amzn.to/4433Qz9
Ebook: https://amzn.to/4qHRRki

*As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.