Shifting in and out of reality, this inspirational story follows 12-year old John Greber, who with his mother, Ellie, suffers abuse at the hands of John’s father, whom he calls “The Beast.” The Beast abandons his family and kidnaps John’s six-year old sister, Marny. John vows revenge as he seeks to confront his father and rescue his sister. Jeffrey B. Allen takes us on a fantastic journey into a Land where John and his mother become embroiled in a civil war that could destroy the Land and the World, so John must tread carefully. This coming-of-age novel travels a totally different path than expected. With both poignancy and adventure, it proves that the strength of the human spirit can overcome all odds. "GONEAWAY INTO THE LAND is unlike anything I have ever read before. It’s a completely unique story." November 4th,2009 - submitted by Carrie Feletti See the new cover for the second edition, republished GoneAway due out before the end of 2009. Click here, to download 9781608608591-JacketGray_Final_9-13-09.pdf   GoneAway Into the Land by Jeffrey B. Allen    “My journey is my journey, how can you comprehend? That what becomes the truth for me is one I cannot lend .  Or even simply give away, because it is of me. It is of me, and me alone, not him, not her, not thee.  A private part of who I am and what I represent.  Impossible to understand from where your journey's sent.”   There is a faint dream-like quality to this book, a metaphoric attribute as it deals with themes of friendship, loss, violence, courage, greed, innocence, selfishness and love. It is an adventure, an allegory, a bittersweet fantasy filled with subtle meaning and depth that never loses its appeal. GoneAway Into the Land is a captivating book with a creative narrative that quietly lures a reader into an original world that is fully realized and thoroughly absorbing. It transcends into a superb piece of fiction, and I recommend it highly Short Synopsis This ambitious yarn follows twelve-year old John Greber who, along with his mother Ellie, is the object of abuse at the hands of John’s father whom he names “The Beast.” One day, “The Beast” abandons John and his mother while at the same time snatching away John’s six-year old sister Marny. John vows to seek revenge, confront his repulsive father, and rescue his sister Marny. As we discover, all of this transpires during a time where John and his mother will be indirectly involved in a Civil War that has far reaching repercussions that may lead to the destruction of the world. Tagging along with John and his mother, Allen cleverly uses his mind-boggling world as a vehicle in understanding what life is all about and the human condition. This is particularly in evidence as we witness John’s challenge of making the transition from childhood to adulthood as he self-examines the big questions in life as well as the nature of good and evil, the meaning of life and the quest to understand himself. What I found quite striking about GoneAway Into the Land is Allen’s skilful narrative pacing in revealing bit-by-bit the various themes to the reader and permitting him or her to slowly discover it. Another plus is that Allen does not resort to some kind of magic wherein he relies on the fantasy aspect in order to enable John to break out of a thorny situation by manufacturing a super-duper miraculous spell that the reader never even knew about. With its deftly constructed plot, episodic structure, a lovable hero, interesting secondary characters, and a dash of suspense, Allen’s fascinating debut novel is a haunting tale that jolts along at its own pace. Moreover, Allen’s writing is extremely powerful particularly his imagery and masterful descriptions such as when John meets up with “The Beast.” And when all's said and done, we have a novel that is not only amazingly fitting for our times, but one that is rich and rewarding for anyone, young or old, wishing to ponder over insightful questions pertaining to our existence and journey through life.                          Excerpt There was a sound of working machinery, a rhythmic sloshing, churning some strange brew the Beast could not ignore. A thick red mist clung to the top of the door header and floated out in stratified layers. The Beast took his eyes off John and bent even lower to see into the doorway. John seized on his chance. He raised his weapon and ran at the Beast. With every muscle in his body he jumped up and hurled his spear into the exact center of the Beast’s eyeball. The monster’s head snapped back in shock. John landed between the Beast’s legs but by the time it grasped what had happened John was clear and back standing by the MixingRoom door. His weapon was gone. There would be no more chances.

Professional Reviews
Unforgettable. Like nothing I have ever read.
Review posted on Amazon by Carrie Felletti – November 4th, 2009

Let me start off by saying in order for me to give a book a 5 star rating, it has to completely consume me and when I’m finished reading it, I’m still thinking about it days later. I love this book. I love stories that you find yourself stopping at periods and pausing at commas to get the full effect. There was so much depth, which so many books lack these days. The poetry of Jeffery Allen’s words allowed my mind to truly see the unique characters that became part of my life for awhile. I loved them and some, I even loved to hate. I usually rush though stories, just so I can start another, but with GONEAWAY INTO THE LAND, I took my time. A whopping week! And now as I write my review, I’m still attached to the characters I’ve come to love.
About the story...GONEAWAY INTO THE LAND is unlike anything I have ever read before. It’s a completely unique story. Think of the children’s board game CANDYLAND gone wrong. Think of the characters, to name a few, King Kandy, Lord Licorice and the Molasses Monster. Think of Tim Burton getting his hands on it and wrapping his mind around the chaos.
Jeffery Allen fills your mind with colors and the love of sugary things. I popped Skittles and M&M’s the entire time I read it. Not only do colors consume you but the plot is gripping with page turning suspense. At times I thought of, LORD OF THE RINGS when battles commenced. Throughout the story you are introduced to characters and taken away into their adventures. Piece by piece all this stories and characters come together for the big battle in the end.
I would recommend this story to YA and adults, though above average young children would love it too. Great for children that know how to let themselves fall into a fantasy world. This story has a sequel but it doesn’t leave you hanging. There is enough closure but still I long for more. I look forward for the follow-up and happy to add this book to the shelves in my own family library.





Jeffrey, I really enjoyed the book. My review follows.
By Geri Ahearn

"GONEAWAY INTO THE LAND" is a unique story that takes the reader on a journey through life as we follow the footsteps of John Greber, a young hero. At age twelve, John was brave enough to travel into the land of the unknown to confront his father face-to-face, better known as "The Beast" through John's eyes.
John made a secret vow to seek revenge on his abusive father, rescue his sister, and help his mother during a Civil War that threatens not only the land, but the world. As John guides the reader through the battle of horror, with survival as the ultimate goal, he becomes stronger each step of the way as he shares his strength with Ellie, and Marny. The reader can feel his strength as we continue a journey through the wonders of youth, learning life's intense lessons, while absorbing the pleasures of childhood.
Can the reader relate to any of the dramatic events that take place in the land of evil? Does the reader feel hope as the journey continues? Can a parent read through the mind of Ellie? Does Marny learn to treat John with respect, and admiration? I recommend this novel to teens, adults, and all fantasy lovers.
Jeffrey B. Allen created a Masterpiece, a captivating story the reader can
never forget. The author's wild imagination draws the reader in, like a
magnet. The plot is superb, and his charismatic characters come to life.
"GONEAWAY INTO THE LAND" is a riveting tale of not just John's epic
journey, but also our journey through life. The vivid description of "The Beast" is incredible. The remarkable journey is chilling, haunting, and mysterious as it takes the reader to a place with unforgettable consequences. John Greber tugs at the reader's heart as much as Trevor does in "PAY IT FORWARD."
Jeffrey B. Allen's "GONEAWAY INTO THE LAND" transforms into an action - packed adventure that explodes with spectacular special effects, and the reader will indulge into an awe-inspiring experience as if viewing one of Steven Spielberg's finest!

Geraldine Ahearn AIOM HonDG
Author of 6 books
CCRN/ Founding Member ABI Women's Review Board
Author Geri Ahearn, INC





NORM GOLDMAN
Using his own unique style and voice, Jeffrey B. Allen with GoneAway Into the Land has really stretched the limits of the traditional fantasy novel. Shifting in and out of fantasy, Allen cleverly intertwines the theme of child and spousal abuse with a land of the unknown. The magic that he has created does manage to make sense to the reader, although at times I must admit I was a trifle confused with the multitude of bizarre quirky characters and the inventiveness of their language.
This ambitious yarn follows twelve-year old John Greber who, along with his mother Ellie, is the object of abuse at the hands of John’s father whom he names “The Beast.”
One day, “The Beast” abandons John and his mother while at the same time snatching away John’s six-year old sister Marny. John vows to seek revenge, confront his repulsive father, and rescue his sister Marny. As we discover, all of this transpires during a time where John and his mother will be indirectly involved in a Civil War that has far reaching repercussions that may lead to the destruction of the world.
Tagging along with John and his mother, Allen cleverly uses his mind-boggling world as a vehicle in understanding what life is all about and the human condition. This is particularly in evidence as we witness John’s challenge of making the transition from childhood to adulthood as he self-examines the big questions in life as well as the nature of good and evil, the meaning of life and the quest to understand himself.
What I found quite striking about GoneAway Into the Land is Allen’s skilful narrative pacing in revealing bit-by-bit the various themes to the reader and permitting him or her to slowly discover it. Another plus is that Allen does not resort to some kind of magic wherein he relies on the fantasy aspect in order to enable John to break out of a thorny situation by manufacturing a super-duper miraculous spell that the reader never even knew about.
With its deftly constructed plot, episodic structure, a lovable hero, interesting secondary characters, and a dash of suspense, Allen’s fascinating debut novel is a haunting tale that jolts along at its own pace. Moreover, Allen’s writing is extremely powerful particularly his imagery and masterful descriptions such as when John meets up with “The Beast.” And when all's said and done, we have a novel that is not only amazingly fitting for our times, but one that is rich and rewarding for anyone, young or old, wishing to ponder over insightful questions pertaining to our existence and journey through life. The only flaw in the book is that it could have been shortened by about one hundred pages. No doubt, I am sure Allen had a great deal of fun writing this novel, however, at times I felt he overwrote-a common trap that many debut novelists fall into. Nonetheless, I am certain readers will find a great deal of fun in reading this provocative fantasy novel.

Reader Reviews for "GoneAway - Into the Land"

Reviewed by Carrie Filetti (Reader)	11/4/2009
This book completely consume me. When finished reading it I still thinking about it days later. I love this book. I love stories that you find yourself stopping at periods and pausing at commas to get the full effect. There was so much depth, which so many books lack these days. The poetry of Jeffery Allen’s words allowed my mind to truly see the unique characters that became part of my life for awhile. I loved them and some, I even loved to hate. I usually rush though stories, just so I can start another, but with GONEAWAY INTO THE LAND, I took my time. A whopping week! And now as I write my review, I’m still attached to the characters I’ve come to love. About the story...GONEAWAY INTO THE LAND is unlike anything I have ever read before. It’s a completely unique story. Think of the children’s board game CANDYLAND gone wrong. Think of the characters, to name a few, King Kandy, Lord Licorice and the Molasses Monster. Think of Tim Burton getting his hands on the game gone wrong and wrapping his mind around the chaos. Jeffery Allen fills your mind with colors and the love of sugary things. I popped Skittles and M&M's the entire time I read it. Not only do colors consume you but the plot is gripping with page turning suspense. At times I thought of LORD OF THE RINGS because each group of characters had their own quest. Throughout the story you are introduced to these characters and taken away into their adventures. Piece by piece all this stories and characters come together for the big battle in the end. I would recommend this story to YA and adults, though above average young children would love it too. Great for children that know how to let themselves fall into a fantasy world. This story has a sequel but it doesn’t leave you hanging. There is enough closure but still I long for more. I look forward for the follow-up and happy to add this book to the shelves in my own family library.
Reviewed by Elise Crawford	9/22/2009
In GoneAway into the Land Jeffery Allen allows us a refreshing escape from reality. Although fantasy fiction, a cross between The Wizard of Oz and Alice in Wonderland, but on steroids, and eerily parallel to real life power hungry politics we face in everyday life, GoneAway into the Land keeps you on the edge of your seat with suspense until the very end. – Elise Crawford, author of A Promise Kept
Reviewed by Cynthia Dennis (Reader)	5/21/2009
Gone Away Into The Land....by Jeffery B. Allen. Truly a vacation spot that takes you to depths of the unexpected. The more that you read, the deeper this story gets while remaining light hearted and fun to read. This book leaves you with a feeling of yearning for more. As you travel throughout the land with John and his mother, Ellie, you are on a journey to places that you only dare to imagine. Mr. Allen has found a way to depict self exploration, our journey through life, the wonders of the afterlife, intense life lessons and the wonders of youth masterfully hidden within a light hearted story. Find yourself in a world where not only is it impossible to forget the pleasures of your childhood; but a place where you can embrace them and make them part of your soul.
Reviewed by Carol Boerner (Reader)	5/5/2009
"I bought this novel from Wandering Sage Publishing's online bookstore while brousing their site. The write up intigued me. I am glad I followed my instinct and made this rather impulsive purchase. Jeffrey B. Allen has an incredible imagination. But not only that--GoneAway is a novel that invited my imagination to soar beyond its limits. It rekindled sweet childhood memories, yet made me feel such a powerful connection to the main character, who suffers so intensely in the opening chapters. I discovered myself holding my breath during some of the opening scenes. Absolutely riveting. The Land that John travels into is a place of sensory fullness. Memorable characters (my favorite: Hampton Ducksberry) linger still. GoneAway feeds the imagination, yet addresses serious life issues in a thoughtful, soul-stroking way. It's not too often I finish a novel, put it down, and think,"Superb. Now someone has to make this into a movie." This is my favorite novel in a long,long time.It would be an ideal springboard for discussion for both adolescent and adult audiences. I highly recommend it, and I look forward to more Jeffrey B. Allen novels."
Reviewed by A. Stewart	4/29/2009
GoneAway Into the Land by Jeffrey B. Allen is an interesting juxtaposition between a child’s harsh, abusive reality and a Land of fantasy and tasty confection. It is well-written, engaging, and fascinating, creating a vibrant world that draws in the reader. The plotline of GoneAway Into the Land is innovative, and delicious. The story begins with the sad home life of young John Greber, who tragically has an angry, abusive father; he, his younger sister, Marny and his mother Ellie all live an unhappy existence. The forlorn home life explodes in a violent confrontation that results in John’s father, whom he calls The Beast, kidnapping Marny; this horror catapults John and his mother into a strange odyssey, as they search for the little girl. With the help of the mysterious Driver they venture into the Land, a curious place of sugary bonbons and inspiration intricately connected with our World. This extraordinary place is now in serious danger of destruction by the evil machinations of Mengus, one of the Ministers of the Land, and the rampages of The Beast. Denizens of both worlds are bound together in their attempts to save their respective worlds and one small girl. GoneAway Into the Land is a remarkable novel, and I was most impressed with its characterization. The portrayals in this novel are not larger than life heroic depictions; they are solid, relatable, fully complete people, be they born of the real world or the realm of fantasy. The wondrous characters that abound in this novel are diverse, some malicious, some decent, some in-between. They will earn your loyalty and your affection or your dislike and disdain. There is a faint dream-like quality to this book, a metaphoric attribute as it deals with themes of friendship, loss, violence, courage, greed, innocence, selfishness, and love. It is an adventure, an allegory, a bittersweet fantasy filled with subtle meaning and depth that never loses its appeal. GoneAway Into the Land is a captivating book with a creative narrative that quietly lures a reader into an original world that is fully realised and thoroughly absorbing. It transcends into a superb piece of fiction, and I recommend it highly.
Reviewed by Bridget Hopper (Reader)	4/19/2009
I just finished reading this book called "GoneAway Into The Land" by Jeffrey B. Allen. The author contacted me on Facebook and asked if I would review his book. I am so glad he did! It's an amazing story told with wonderful imagination. GoneAway is the story of John, who is twelve years old and a victim of the abusive wrath of his father whom John renames, the Beast. The Beast takes off with John's younger sister, Marny. In order to save Marny, John and his mom venture into the Land. It is during their desperate search to find her that John decides he must destroy the Beast. Not only to protect himself and his mother from future abuse but to save his sister and the friends he has made in the Land. An evil plot developed by Minister Mengus may destroy the Land and everyone in it. Will John be able to save his sister and this new land he's come to love? I would highly recommend this book to anyone who was once a kid. You will not be disappointed!

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