Books -

Books -

My books published by 2Leaf Press, THE WANDERER and THE FOURTH MOMENT, can be found on all major online platforms. I encourage you to buy them directly through their distributor, Bookshop.org, as it is a nonprofit partner that supports local independent bookstores and small presses, ensuring better returns for 2Leaf Press and its authors in the era of e-commerce. The RESCUE OF BALANGODA and THE CHRISTMAS NEST are available at Amazon.com.

the-christmas-nestTHE CHRISTMAS NEST (2025), Carole tells the story of a mother bird building her very first nest. “A nest, a nest—I must build a nest. For my eggs, it must be the best.” This charming holiday story follows a young bird searching for the perfect spot to create her home. She settles in a tall tree above a woodpile and last year’s Christmas tree, where she finds exactly what she needs. If we’re fortunate, we might look up and see a sparkling silver nest filled with baby birds happily chirping under the proud watch of their mother. This delightful tale also introduces toddlers to the nests birds build, featuring illustrations and simple facts. THE CHRISTMAS NEST is an ideal way to celebrate the season while sparking your child’s interest in nature. This book is not AI-generated; it features original watercolor artwork and a unique story crafted to bring holiday joy to your family and young children. Illustrated by Debbie J. Leoni. Available in Kindle format on Amazon.com.

THE WANDERER COVERIn THE WANDERER (2020), Carole checks off her bucket list by meeting fascinating people and visiting the places that bring her to them. Throughout her travels, she discovers unexpected human connections that enrich her travel experience and highlight the kindness she encounters worldwide, all from the perspective of a solo female traveler. In every new destination, the wandering Garrison is joined by a variety of remarkable individuals who broaden her cultural understanding and inspire feelings of love and joy. THE WANDERER is a heartfelt travelogue that offers readers a glimpse into Garrison’s life and adventures. Available in print and eBook formats.

 

 

THE FOURTH MOMENT COVERTHE FOURTH MOMENT, JOURNEYS FROM THE KNOWN TO THE UNKNOWN (2017) is Carole’s memoiristic travelogue. Coming from modest origins, Garrison forged her own path to achieve significant accomplishments, but her story is far from a typical “rags to riches” narrative. Through a mix of hardships and successes, mistakes and insights, her life has taken many unexpected turns—from being a suburban housewife in Miami, to becoming a single mother and police officer in Atlanta, then returning to education to become an experienced professor of ethics and women’s studies in Ohio and Kentucky, and later working in Cambodia as it recovered from decades of civil conflict—all while evolving into the dedicated humanitarian she is today. THE FOURTH MOMENT is an extraordinary collection of memories from a woman whose experiences span a wide variety of places, people, and interests. Avoiding the usual autobiography format, THE FOURTH MOMENT is made up of short stories—vignettes—that shift back and forth through time and locations, vividly portraying events and reflections from a captivating life. These stories showcase the keen insights of a woman for whom each day brings a new adventure and a chance to learn. In THE FOURTH MOMENT, Garrison shares truths that may not always be easily accessible in daily life but are certainly within the reach of everyday hopes—something readers will find relatable. Available in print and eBook formats.

rescue-of-balangoda-coverThe RESCUE OF BALANGODA (2016) is Carole’s first children’s book illustrated by fourth and fifth graders from Altizer Elementary School. It is an enjoyable and uplifting sci-fi story aimed at young readers, emphasizing friendship and bird conservation rather than technology or violent space battles. The setting and storyline create a solid foundation for imaginative elements. The duo of the fan-eared Se-laya and the cobalt blue Ptisic is sure to attract many young readers. RESCUE OF BALANGODA features plenty of villains, heroes, heroines, and unusual alien creatures to captivate even the most reluctant young audience. Enjoy reading. Save the birds.