THE ANCIENT ONE by T.A. Barron Celebrates 25th Anniversary

On September 16, T.A. Barron's classic fantasy adventure, THE ANCIENT ONE celebrates its 25th anniversary. Originally published in 1992, the book follows teenager Kate Gordon as she finds herself caught in a battle over the fate of a pristine forest that's been discovered on a sacred Native American site rich in mystery and magic. Slipping into the hollow of an ancient redwood tree, Kate finds herself transported back 500 years to an enchanted time - and into a gripping adventure that will affect both past and future.

A quarter of a century after its original release, THE ANCIENT ONE resonates with readers more than ever as it tackles important issues like environmentalism, courage, corporate greed, and unemployment. The Huffington Post lists THE ANCIENT ONE among the "9 Best Trees in Literature" and a current review on Goodreads said the book "is full of ancient magic and connection to nature, along with plenty of humor. T. A. Barron wrote a masterpiece, truly capturing my heart."

In his introduction to the special 25th Anniversary edition from Puffin, T.A. Barron sheds light on the book's genesis and writes, "What few people know is that THE ANCIENT ONE was inspired by a hike in California when I encountered the most magnificent tree I'd ever seen-a redwood of such grandeur that I nearly fell over backward trying to see its highest boughs. I lingered in that grove for the rest of the day. But at sunset, I still wasn't ready to leave. Though I hadn't expected to camp out, and hadn't brought a sleeping bag or food, I decided to stay for the night. Whether or not I slept that night, I don't remember. But I do remember feeling an extraordinary sense of peace. And I also remember wondering, all through the dark hours, what amazing stories this two-thousand-year-old tree could tell, what rich wisdom it could share."

Weaving the important environmental issues of today, THE ANCIENT ONE is a perfect supplement for schools that are introducing curriculums on the environment.

"The Ancient One is really good to read along with our outdoor curriculum, which teaches all about the outdoors and wildlife and nature," says Chelsea Annas, a La Grande Middle School teacher. "This book fits perfectly with the conversations we have. I also use it to teach how to be a good person. My favorite part is where Kate becomes the tree. The best way to understand someone else is by putting ourselves in their shoes… It's my favorite book that I teach all year."

The book has proved so popular that a free discussion guide, excerpt, map, play and special video by T.A. Barron have been made available to parents and educators (visit http://www.tabarron.com for more information).

T. A. Barron is the award-winning and New York Times bestselling author of more than 30 books, including the Merlin Saga, which has sold millions of copies worldwide and was recently optioned for a major motion picture by Disney. His belief in the power of youth, as well as his advocacy for the environment, is found in all his writings and in the Gloria Barron Prize for Young Heroes, which celebrates inspiring, public-spirited young people. He lives in Colorado with his family.
For more information, please visit http://www.tabarron.com.

THE ANCIENT ONE
written by T.A. Barron     
320 Pages     Ages 10-up    $8.99
Published by Puffin Books

Media Contact: Catherine Lincoln, clincoln(at)goodmanmedia(dot)com, 212-576-2700

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