The latest novel for adults by H. A. Pratt is a sharp turn from his previous humorous novels. "Little Secrets" tells the story of a father suffering from PTSD after World War II and his daughter who may or may not have an imaginary friend. Something is in the basement of their home, but what? Imaginary friend? Ghost? Demon? The novel is part ghost story, part psychological thriller. Can a father and daughter share the same imaginary friend, or the same delusion? Three years in the writing, with many drafts, discards, and rewrites, "Little Secrets" is my most ambitious novel yet.
Here are the other titles available on Amazon (adult titles are by H. A. Pratt and juvenile titles are by Hal Pratt):
"Go to Philadelphia!" (H. A. Pratt) is the touching story about an eccentric grandfather, Hap Prendergast, his shy grandson, and the daughter who struggles with doing what is best for both of them. Hap's intentions are good, but humorous consequences often result.
"Hotel Philadelphia" (H. A. Pratt) follows the always unpredictable old man, Hap Prendergast, as he rehabs in a senior living community where rules and routine are strictly enforced. Who will bend first, Hap or the home? Another humorous tale for adults who enjoyed "Go to Philadelphia!"
"Scamming Philadelphia" (H. A. Pratt) features all of Hap's friends from Charlie's Coffee Corner as they do battle with scammers trying to prey on older folks. Never try to trick a trickster. Hap and his overweight beagle, Joe, are back in another humorous novel.
"The Old Man's World" (H. A. Pratt) combines writing and storytelling skills in a format that celebrates the tall tales often told by grandfathers to their grandchildren. The Old Man lives in a special world where garden gnomes move on their own, leprechauns roam the woods, and nothing is explained in black-and-white terms. The Boy shares this special world of wonder and amazement. Humorous, touching, and always entertaining. A delightful excursion into a world more fun than the one we usually inhabit.
"Twill" (H. A. Pratt) is a fantasy story of a young boy confronted with the death of his mother and his grandfather, just months apart. The boy goes off in search of The Well of the World's End, with water that can cure any illness. Will he find it in time to save his grandfather? The novel deals with the difficult subject of how a child deals with death.
"The Diamond Button" (Hal Pratt) is a picture book beautifully illustrated by Karen Roszel. It retells the Hungarian folktale of a little rooster, a greedy sultan, and the diamond button they both want. It is now available in paperback on Amazon.
"My Sister Only Has Three Teeth and Other Small Problems" (Hal Pratt) humorously explores the difficulties of everyday life, as seen through a child's eyes. The book features full-color illustrations by Karen Roszel and wacky poems by Hal.
"Mags the Magnificent" (Hal Pratt) is the story of a young deer mouse who finds herself inside a library with a group of house mice, a very large cat, and a Big Man who hates mice. A homage to small town public libraries and the librarians who dedicate their lives to books. Karen Roszel's illustrations bring the characters to life. For younger readers, grades 2 to 6..
"Jessie's Escape" (Hal Pratt) features many of the characters from "Mags the Magnificent." It is the story of a young mouse who yearns for adventure and fame. Along with her best friend, she leaves the library to discover what life is like on the Outside. Danger lurks everywhere for the young mice. Once again, Karen Roszel enlivens the story with her dynamic illustrations. For younger readers, grades 2 to 6.
"Sandy Saves the Day,"(Hal Pratt) completes the adventures of the mice in Rohrsburg Public Library, at least for now. It has been a while since the library has heard any news from Jessie, who left to live with some deer mice in the forest. When word reaches them that Jessie is missing, Sandy goes to rescue her. In the midst of danger, Sandy relies on his love of stories and some help from his friends to save the day. Karen Roszel once again adds her delightful illustrations. Forb grades 2 to 6.
"The Fabulous Adventures of Harry and Sam" (Hal Pratt) is a trilogy. "Ghostbusters!" tells the story of cousins Harry, Sam and their two dogs as they try to free the house of the ghosts in Harry's bedroom closet. With the help of Harry's sister, Holly, and their belief in science, the cousins confront their first paranormal adventure. Karen Roszel's illustrations bring the story to life. The second adventure for the boys is "Alien Chasers!" Harry and Sam confront alien beings who have abduction on their agenda. The third title is "Bigfooters!" The cousins confront a bigfoot, aided by their three dogs. Once again, illustrations by Karen Roszel help bring the story to life. The series is for grades 1 to 4.
"The Master Thief" (Hal Pratt) is a fantasy novel about faeries, changelings, and the love between a brother and sister. Full of action and adventure and the strange inhabitants of the Faerie world. Illustrations by Karen Roszel add to the excitement. For ages 10 and up.