There Were Giants in Those Days

Legendary figures collide in Paul J. Barker's "Life On Umbriel," and the fallout is not pretty. Nineteenth century British Columbia is the setting for this highly addictive page-turner, about a mysterious fugitive and the strongman determined to take him down.

Ontario, Canada (PRWEB) November 23, 2006 -- It's been out for less than a year, but "Life On Umbriel" is already something of a Canadian classic (particularly in the Pacific Northwest, where so much of the novel is set.) The story itself is irresistible: An unbelievably agile young fugitive named Jarrod Morgan eludes his pursuers by scrambling up the steep slopes of "Mt. Avitah" -- enough of a feat, in 19th century B.C., to garner him national acclaim. Although Morgan is seldom seen again, what few confrontations he does have with his fellow man are explosive and nerve-wracking. Not surprisingly, a colorful legend grows up around Morgan and his supposed exploits. But how much is fact and how much is fiction? What cannot be disputed is the existence of a certain misanthropic giant, allegedly Morgan's most persistent adversary. Whereas Morgan's physical prowess is quite obviously heaven-sent, the giant's is more a result of rigorous training and an utter determination to see Jarrod dead.

"Life On Umbriel," originally conceived as a bedtime story for children, is now an incredible novel that is available all over the world. For some reason, perhaps due to its themes of alienation and misanthropy, it seems to strike an especially resonant chord with introverts. After all, what shy, retiring type hasn't fantasized about living in some impenetrable place of refuge, far from the scrutiny of his obnoxious peers? Author Paul J. Barker's eloquent prose suits the old-fashioned story to a tee, and is clean enough for a holy man to enjoy.

"Life On Umbriel" (ISBN # 0-595-37832-3) is available at select bookstores, and all over The Web. For more info, drop by the author's website, www.dontlikemyjob.com

Paul J. Barker is best known for "Timothy's Take-Out" (ISBN # 1-4137-3164-3), a novel that has attained something resembling cult status amongst people who don't like their jobs. It is a masterpiece of humorous fiction and can be found, appropriately enough, at http://www.dontlikemyjob.com/pages/1/index.htm.

###