My Journey of Writing Johann’s Journey

Writing The Mountain: Johann’s Journey was much more for me than creating a fantasy story for youth—it was a unique avenue to explore profound ideas, such as the nature of faith, in a deeply human and imaginative way. The intersection of creativity and spirituality in this adventure fantasy novel gave me a powerful medium to communicate universal truths while immersing my readers in an imaginary world.

The Mountain: Johann's Journey, a fantasy novel by Barbi McSwain

My Vision Behind the Novel

When embarking on the journey of creating this adventure fantasy, my goal was not solely to entertain but to provoke thought. Faith is multifaceted; it encompasses trust, hope, devotion, and often, a leap into the unknown. These aspects are universally relatable, yet they manifest differently in every individual. As children mature and begin thinking more critically, literature with themes, allusions, and symbolism can give them a framework with which to think about the deeper complexities, such as faith. The fantasy genre offered a canvas wide enough to illustrate these complexities, unbound by the constraints of reality.

As I wrote this fantasy, the landscapes, magical systems, and characters began serving an ideal backdrop for teaching teens about Jesus through allegory. Johann’s quest and moral dilemmas invite readers to reflect on their own convictions and challenges. The adventure adds an element of urgency and discovery, making the exploration of faith dynamic and impactful.

Integrating Faith Within the Storyline

Faith is woven intricately into the fabric of this novel, taking shape in many forms—religious, philosophical, and even interpersonal. Johann's journey mirrors a young person’s timeless quest for finding their place in a world of responsibility and accountability. By encountering trials that test his resolve, Johann must grapple with questions that resonate deeply: What does it mean to trust? How does one maintain hope in the darkest moments? Is faith about certainty or embracing doubt?

The novel employs various narrative devices to highlight the role of faith. Symbolism plays a significant part, with objects, characters, and settings representing different aspects of belief. Johann searches for a treasure, not realizing what ramifications it will have on his life if he finds it. Characters voice their doubts and revelations, creating moments of intimacy, introspection, and humor.

Characters as Vessels

Each character serves as a vessel to explore diverse perspectives on faith. The protagonist, Johann, is a reluctant hero who represents the transformative journey from skepticism to trust. His friend, Michael, embodies steadfast devotion, challenging Johann’s views. Antagonists, too, reflect themes of faith—as those who have misunderstood or twisted it, showing the darker side of belief.

By presenting a spectrum of perspectives, The Mountain: Johann’s Journey invites readers to see faith not as a monolithic idea but as a deeply personal experience. The story encourages young readers to empathize with characters whose struggles mirror their own, fostering a connection that transcends the boundaries of fiction.

The Role of the Adventure

Adventure serves as the novel's driving force, propelling the main characters into situations that challenge their faith and push them to uncover deeper truths. Whether it is navigating an ancient path, facing dreadful creatures, or deciphering cryptic instructions, each trial becomes a metaphor for the internal battles associated with belief.

Johann’s adventure allows for moments of exhilaration and triumph, reminding readers that faith often rewards those who persevere. Moments of humor and victory serve as affirmations of the joy and strength found in trust and hope. These experiences parallel the emotional highs and lows of real-life journeys.

Faith Beyond the Novel

This adventure fantasy is not designed to preach or define faith for its audience. Instead, it creates a space for contemplation and dialogue. Readers from all backgrounds and beliefs can find value in its themes, allowing them to interpret belief through the lens of their own experiences.

The novel also demonstrates how storytelling can bridge the gap between imagination and spirituality. By invoking awe and wonder, this fantasy genre mimics the sense of transcendence that faith often inspires. Johann’s journey reminds readers of the beauty in seeking something greater than oneself, whether it be divine, moral, or communal.

Worlds That Reflect Faith

If you’re looking for Christian teen books like Narnia, you’ll enjoy The Mountain: Johann’s Journey. World-building plays an essential role in conveying ideas about spirituality in this novel. Every element—from the geography of the landscapes to the laws governing the enchanted world—echoes the themes of belief. A world divided into realms of light and shadow symbolizes the duality of trust and doubt, while a mystical forest represents the mystery and allure of redemption.

In addition, characters within the story reflect varying approaches to spirituality and belief systems. These differences serve to highlight the diverse ways humans conceptualize faith, offering readers a chance to explore grace and mercy with their own world.

The Power of Myth and Archetype

The mythology of the treasure is central to the novel, drawing upon archetypes that have shaped human understanding of faith for millennia. These timeless elements find new life in the narrative, imbued with layers of meaning that resonate with modern audiences. By adapting these archetypes, the myth of the treasure underscores the gospel.

My Personal Connection to Faith

Writing this novel was as much a journey of self-discovery as it was a creative endeavor. Faith, in its many forms, has played a significant role in shaping my worldview. By translating these reflections into a fictional narrative, I seek to share my insights in a way that is both engaging and accessible to young readers.

The process of crafting the novel was itself an act of faith—a belief in the power of stories to connect, inspire, and transform. Every word written was driven by the hope that readers would find meaning and solace in its pages, just as I found meaning in crafting the story and bringing the characters to life.

Faith as an Adventure

This faith-based fantasy adventure for teens stands as a testament to the enduring bond between creativity and belief. By using the fantastic to explore ideas of faith, it bridges the gap between imagination and reality, offering readers a profound lens through which to view their own lives.

Ultimately, the story is a celebration of the human spirit—a reminder that faith, like adventure, is a journey worth embarking on. Through its richly crafted world, compelling characters, and thrilling narrative, The Mountain: Johann’s Journey invites readers to believe in something greater, to take risks, and to uncover the wonder within their own hearts.

👉 Ready to start the journey?

Read sample pages and purchase The Mountain: Johann’s Journey on Amazon today. Available in paperback, hardback, or Kindle. https://www.amazon.com/Mountain-Johanns-Journey-Barbi-McSwain-ebook/dp/B0DK62ZV2G

Are you a teacher or homeschool parent? Use the Teacher's Guide to teach The Mountain: Johann's Journey as a novel unit.