Top Lessons from A Past That Lies Before Me 

• The human spirit can rediscover faith even in confinement.
•  Life is not always fair, but we are limited in rectifying that unfairness. 
• Empathy for others is a powerful way to find healing and redemption.
• Transformation can come from the most unexpected people and places.
• Hope is not found in circumstance but in perspective.
• You can survive great loss.

 A Past That Lies Before Me invites readers to step into the shoes of Steve Clark, Ph.D., a man who had everything—a brilliant academic career, a nice home, a lovely fiancé, respect, and influence—until one mistake sent him into the depths of the U.S. criminal justice system. What he discovered there wasn’t just suffering and loss—it also was humanity, resilience, and even grace.

Playlist for Reflection and Redemption 

• “Amazing Grace” – Aretha Franklin
• “Hallelujah” – Jeff Buckley
• “Fix You” – Coldplay
• “Bridge Over Troubled Water” – Simon & Garfunkel
• “Rise Up” – Andra Day
• “The Sound of Silence” – Disturbed
• “Let It Be” – The Beatles
• “Man in the Mirror” – Michael Jackson
• “Broken Halos” – Chris Stapleton
• “You’ve Got a Friend” – James Taylor

These songs mirror the emotional journey found within Clark’s memoir—songs of regret, renewal, and rediscovery that complement his story of transformation and grace.

 Character Introduction: Lonesome George 

One of the most memorable figures in A Past That Lies Before Me is Lonesome George, an unlikely spiritual guide within the walls of the county jail. At first, he’s seen as a loner—an outcast even among outcasts—but to Clark, he unexpectedly becomes a beacon of compassion. George’s simple request and unexpected empathy mark one of the most transformative moments in Clark’s story, reminding readers that redemption often comes from unexpected people.

 Steve Clark’s Book Club Picks 

• Man’s Search for Meaning by Viktor E. Frankl
• The Sun Does Shine  by Anthony Ray Hinton
• The Glass Castle  by Jeannette Walls 
• Just Mercy  by Bryan Stevenson 
• When Breath Becomes Air  by Paul Kalanithi 

If you like any of these titles A Past That Lies Before Me is the book for you, expanding on the themes of redemption, resilience, and the human capacity for hope.

Bookish Fun Facts 

Steve Clark wrote much of the manuscript while processing the trauma of his experience, often late at night in front of a computer. 

The title A Past That Lies Before Me is inspired by Oscar Wilde’s letter De Profundis, written from prison—a literary echo that frames Clark’s own reflection on identity and consequence.

Despite its heavy subject matter, many readers find humor and lightness in Clark’s storytelling, a testament to his academic wit and humanity.

Several real-life inmates who inspired characters in the book later reconnected with Clark after publication, sharing their gratitude for being seen and understood.

Clark continues to meet weekly with a group of men who rallied around him through his darkest times—proof that the relationships forged in hardship can last a lifetime.

Closing Reflection 

With emotional honesty and intellectual depth, A Past That Lies Before Me transforms personal failure and great loss into something positive and great personal insight into his own life. It is both a confession and a call to compassion for readers—an invitation to see redemption as a shared human journey. For readers who admire the vulnerability of The Sun Does Shine and the introspection of When Breath Becomes Air, this memoir is not to be missed.

Faith, courage, and the bond between humans and their loyal companions take center stage in Jeremiah Haslam’s inspirational novel BUCK The Unrelenting. A powerful tale that channels the spirit of classics like The Call of the Wild and White Fang, Haslam’s story reminds readers that even in the face of loss and hardship, faith can light the way forward. As part of his virtual book tour, we’re celebrating this moving debut with a few fun and thoughtful extras that bring the world of Buck and his family to life.

Top 5 Reasons Readers Love BUCK The Unrelenting

• A story of faith and perseverance that uplifts and inspires through every chapter.
• The unforgettable bond between Buck and his family, showing the redemptive power of love.
• A deeply human portrayal of loss and courage set during the Great Depression.
• A faithful message woven naturally into a powerful, adventure-driven story.
• Its universal themes of hope and resilience, appealing to readers of all ages.

Soundtrack for BUCK The Unrelenting

Every great story deserves a great soundtrack. If BUCK The Unrelenting had one, it might sound like this:

• “Eye of the Storm” by Ryan Stevenson – for its message of perseverance through faith.
• “You Raise Me Up” by Josh Groban – echoing the spirit of renewal after hardship.
• “Brother” by NEEDTOBREATHE – a tribute to loyalty and family bonds.
• “Oceans (Where Feet May Fail)” by Hillsong UNITED – capturing the courage to trust in divine strength.
• “Amazing Grace (My Chains Are Gone)” by Chris Tomlin – symbolizing redemption and faith’s triumph.

Character Introduction: Meet Buck

Buck isn’t just a dog—he’s a symbol of steadfast courage and unbreakable faith. Born on a small mountain farm and raised by a God-fearing family, Buck’s journey mirrors our own struggles and triumphs. If Buck could speak, here’s what he might say:

• What drives you, Buck?
    – “My family. Their love gives me purpose, and their faith gives me strength.”
• What’s the hardest challenge you’ve faced?
    – “Losing my mother. But I learned that even through pain, there’s purpose.”
• What lesson do you want readers to remember?
    – “Never stop fighting for what’s right. Stay strong. Stay faithful. Stay unrelenting.”

Jeremiah Haslam’s Book Club Picks

If you loved BUCK The Unrelenting and want to explore similar stories of faith, perseverance, and the beauty of God’s creation, Jeremiah recommends these inspiring reads:

• White Fang by Jack London – A classic about nature, loyalty, and redemption.
• The Yearling by Marjorie Kinnan Rawlings – A tender story of love and loss in the natural world.
• Where the Red Fern Grows by Wilson Rawls – A coming-of-age story defined by courage and compassion.
• The Shack by William P. Young – A spiritual journey of healing and faith.
• Because of Winn-Dixie by Kate DiCamillo – A heartwarming reminder that love and friendship can heal all wounds.

Bookish Fun Facts about BUCK The Unrelenting

• Jeremiah Haslam named Buck after a real dog he owned as a teenager—a tribute to the pet who taught him unconditional love.
• The story’s small-town setting was inspired by Haslam’s own rural upbringing and love for community.
• Many of Buck’s heroic acts were inspired by true stories of dogs who saved their owners’ lives.
• Jeremiah wrote parts of the novel during quiet reflection and prayer, believing God guided the story’s tone and message.
• Readers often say Buck reminds them of their own pets—their loyalty, strength, and faith in times of trial.

Filled with heart, hope, and divine purpose, BUCK The Unrelenting is more than a story—it’s an uplifting journey about faith’s power to overcome adversity. For anyone who has ever loved a dog, faced a hardship, or believed in second chances, Buck’s story will remind you that you, too, can stay unrelenting.

Available now through Outskirts Press, Amazon, and major online retailers. Learn more at OutskirtsPress.com or wherever books are sold.

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We’re thrilled to feature Gary Rivera and his heartwarming middle-grade novel The Reluctant Bully as part of this virtual book tour. A blend of adventure, friendship, and self-discovery, Rivera’s storytelling offers a timeless message about courage, empathy, and the choices that define who we become. If you loved classics like Wonder by R.J. Palacio or Because of Mr. Terupt by Rob Buyea, you’ll find the same emotional depth and hope in The Reluctant Bully.

Top 5 Lessons Readers Can Take from The Reluctant Bully

Kindness can rewrite someone’s story; sometimes all it takes is one friend who listens.

Even bullies have backstories; understanding doesn’t excuse bad behavior, but it can inspire change.

Family isn’t perfect, but forgiveness can turn hurt into healing.

Bravery often looks quiet; it’s the courage to stand up, speak up, or even apologize.

Hope is a decision you make, not something you wait for.

The Reluctant Bully Playlist – Songs That Capture the Story’s Heart

“Brave” – Sara Bareilles (a perfect anthem for Smoochie’s journey toward courage)

“Count on Me” – Bruno Mars (for the loyalty between friends when it matters most)

“Fight Song” – Rachel Platten (reflecting the moments of strength found in self-belief)

“We’re Going to Be Friends” – The White Stripes (a nostalgic nod to the innocence of school days)

“Unwritten” – Natasha Bedingfield (symbolizing new beginnings and the choice to grow beyond your past)

Character Introduction – Meet Smoochie

Smoochie is a bright, determined eleven-year-old who wants to make the world a better place; starting with her own school. After the events of The Lunch Money Treasure, she’s still learning what it means to be brave. In The Reluctant Bully, Smoochie’s big heart leads her to face tough truths about friendship, forgiveness, and what happens when someone you care about makes the wrong choice. Her voice is authentic and relatable; reminding readers that growing up is messy, but it’s also magical.

A quick Q&A with Smoochie:

Favorite subject: Math (she enjoys solving puzzles, and math requires thought.)

Biggest fear: Letting down her friends or family.

Favorite snack: chocolate chip cookies.

Dream job: Teacher or detective. Maybe both.

Personal motto: “The impossible is possible.”

Gary Rivera’s Book Club Picks

As a storyteller who values empathy and courage, Rivera recommends a few books that echo the same heart as The Reluctant Bully. These titles pair beautifully for classroom discussions or family reading nights.

Wonder by R.J. Palacio – For its compassion and lessons in kindness.

Bridge to Terabithia by Katherine Paterson – For its exploration of imagination and loss.

The One and Only Ivan by Katherine Applegate – For its quiet heroism and empathy.

Restart by Gordon Korman – For its take on redemption and second chances.

Because of Mr. Terupt by Rob Buyea – For its emotional depth and classroom realism.

Bookish Fun Facts About Gary Rivera and The Reluctant Bully

Gary wrote the story idea nearly fifteen years ago, inspired by a dinner conversation with his children.

He originally planned The Lunch Money Treasure as a standalone, but readers’ enthusiasm led him to develop a full trilogy.

The talent show scene near the end of The Reluctant Bully was the hardest for Rivera to write, due to its emotional parallels to his own life.

Gary once wrote a rap song for his wife’s company picnic; and she won first place!

The author’s favorite feedback from readers? That his stories remind them of their own childhoods. Gary Rivera’s The Reluctant Bully is a heartfelt story that blends humor, warmth, and hope into every page. It’s available now through the author’s webpage for a discount, Amazon, and all other major retailers, distributors, and wholesalers. Join Smoochie on her journey to understand friendship, forgiveness and the power of doing the right thing; even when it’s hard.

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