Joe Herod is a passionate author whose love for storytelling was ignited at a young age. Born in Dallas, Texas, while his father was deployed overseas, Joe grew up "here and there," moving between North Carolina, Texas, Oklahoma, and finally settling in Mississippi. This unique upbringing, under the discipline of a military father and the influence of an old-school Texas cowboy, significantly shaped his character and worldview.From an early age, Joe found solace in books. Jack London's "The Call of the Wild" and "White Fang" were among his first literary loves, and Hemingway's "The Old Man and the Sea" sparked his passion for storytelling. His educational journey took a fascinating turn when his family moved to Mississippi, where his mother pursued a degree in linguistics at Ole Miss. This period exposed him to a diverse array of cultures, languages, and stories, enriching his imagination and shaping his approach to writing.Growing up, Joe didn't always have an easy relationship with his father. The military discipline and old-school values often clashed with Joe's obstinate and imaginative nature. Despite these challenges, Joe excelled in school, football, and weightlifting, but often retreated into his own world of books and stories. His childhood isolation, combined with an overactive imagination, fostered a deep love for storytelling and a unique perspective on life.Joe's educational background is as eclectic as his upbringing. Starting school in Oklahoma and later moving to Mississippi, he spent his formative years immersed in the academic environment of Ole Miss. His mother's studies in linguistics and their residence in the International Housing Village on campus provided him with a culturally rich upbringing. His friends were a diverse mix of children from all over the world, including the son of a Sudanese diplomat and the daughter of Chinese music majors. These experiences profoundly influenced Joe, instilling in him a love for diverse cultures and stories.After high school, Joe embarked on a series of adventures that he refers to as "The Dark Years." These years were crucial in shaping his identity, although they were marked by personal challenges and growth. His paternal grandfather and uncle Rob became significant role models during this time, providing guidance and support. Rob, in particular, was a mentor and best friend, leaving a lasting impact on Joe's life even after his passing.Joe eventually moved to Pennsylvania for a job opportunity, where he built lifelong friendships and experienced both love and loss. Recognizing his father's declining health, Joe returned to Mississippi after being away for over twenty years. In 2019, he faced the most challenging period of his life, losing both his father and older brother in quick succession, followed by the global COVID-19 pandemic. These events left Joe in a haze for nearly two years.In the winter of 2023, while sorting through his dad's belongings, Joe discovered his US Marine pocket watch and an old copy of his first attempt at writing a book when he was fifteen years old. This discovery was a catalyst. Encouraged by his cousin and co-author, JA Miles, and his younger brother, Joe decided, that after nearly thirty years, it was finally time to bring his stories to life. Thus, the "Chronicles of the Bard King" was born.
