World Beyond the Waves (Paperback or Softback)

Kia Maria loves to dream. In her small village high on a mountain, she writes stories of faraway lands, grand castles, and shimmering seas. But when she discovers a mysterious treasure box and feels her mother's special necklace grow warm against her skin, she begins to wonder- could her dreams be more than just dreams?

With her adventurous best friend, Tony, by her side, Kia sets out to uncover the truth. Is there magic hidden in her treasures? Could her dreams lead to real adventures?

Join Kia Maria as she learns that the biggest journeys start with a little bit of courage-and a lot of imagination!

Kara Gonzalez-Howard was raised as a third culture kid with heritage in the Amish, Mennonite, and Puerto Rican communities. She is grateful for the long hours she spent in the public library as a child and the many rainy days she spent reading stories that allowed her to use her imagination. These early experiences deeply influenced her appreciation for storytelling and creativity.She became a first-generation college graduate, earning a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Goshen College. Kara then practiced as a nurse for nearly two decades, dedicating herself to caring for others in her community. Throughout her life, Kara has also served her community in other ways, including as a board member for her local school board and a community nonprofit mental healthcare organization.Being a mother to two sons and a daughter is one of the most fulfilling parts of Kara's life. Watching them grow up has deeply impacted herperspective on the importance of cultivating and holding space for creativity from a young age.Additionally, Kara owns and manages a small coffee café in rural northern Indiana with her husband. She hopes to use her storytelling to bring comfort and courage to children, especially those who may struggle to find their place in society.

Anaís Balbás is a graphic designer and illustrator, born in Venezuela and raised in Puerto Rico from a young age. Now based in Florida, Anaís brings over 10 years of experience to her passion: illustrating children's books. Her work blends storytelling with vibrant, imaginative visuals that capture the wonder of childhood. Beyond illustration, Anaís is a devoted creative with a deep love for all things art like painting, knitting, hand embroidery, pottery, or exploring new mediums. Her diverse artistic background enriches every project she touches, making her a trusted collaborator for authors and publishers alike.To see samples of her work, visit www.vectorizevision.com.