Welcome

John Michael Heard is a writer based in Lexington, Kentucky. He writes in a variety of genres—from wild and whimsical children’s books to contemplative essays. His first book, Mr. Halick’s Planet, a middle grade sci-fi/fantasy novel is set to be published by the Rabbit Room in 2028.

John Michael is an American who was raised in Almaty, Kazakhstan. His experiences abroad have shaped and inspired much of his writing. He studied film at Asbury University, and he earned a Master’s degree in Theological Studies from Asbury Theological Seminary.

John Michael works on staff at the Lewis House, a Christian Study Center on the campus of the University of Kentucky.

Contact John Michael for writing and speaking inquiries.

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Writing

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Mr. Halick’s Planet

When twins Evan and Jane arrive at Mr. Halick’s planet, they find that their remarkable host has created a pristine utopia seemingly void of human limitations. But the children discover that the sacrifices he’s making in the process threaten the planet, and with it, their very lives. It will be up to them to save their father, the local inhabitants called meres, and the planet itself from Mr. Halick’s lies.

Mr. Halick’s Planet is a middle grade sci-fi/fantasy novel scheduled to be published in 2028 by the Rabbit Room. John Michael was awarded a grant by Creo Arts to help push the project to the finish line.

To hear updates about the project and read new essays published regularly, subscribe to John Michael's Substack, Not Yet Home.

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