A Moving and Beautiful Children’s Tale Set Against the Backdrop of Hawaii. 

Suzanne Gene Courtney’s Ride to the Stars is the moving tale of young Daniel and his green sea turtle, Honu. 

More than just a fictional tale, Courtney’s book is a tribute to her son, Daniel Robert Sayre, and perfectly captures the beauty of life—human and spiritual—to give children a better understanding of loss and the circle of life. 

Courtney tells the story of Daniel, a young boy, and his turtle, Honu, who live on the Big Island of Hawaii. The two share a journey and the result is a loving and gentle message that inspires young ones to cherish each day and live life to the fullest.   

Spanning over two decades, her lyrical prose is peppered with words of comfort and wisdom that resonate with a universal truth—despite pain that seems unbearable, life does and must continue. This bittersweet story carries an enormous sense of purpose and dignity—a celebration of her late son’s life—reflected through the delightful characters she has created and their relationship to one another and the world around them. 

The circle of life is one of life’s greatest mysteries; our physical bodies are here so briefly when time is perceived as infinite. The loss of a loved one is tragic but with hope, healing, and love comes an understanding of how a life is truly infinite as well.  Courtney’s book will become a treasured part of your children’s library and helps teach young ones about love, life, and loss, with graceful finesse.

About the Author

Suzanne Gene Courtney is a writer and elementary school teacher. She has taught in the fields of arts and sciences and worked as a travel assistant. Ms. Courtney is currently writing a nonfiction book about bereavement for parents. She lives with her family in Monroe, Michigan