“Wisdom.…is more precious than jewels…LONG LIFE is in her right hand. ”
– an excerpt from the book
ARPress is honored to publish King Joey: Melissa’s Drought [Joey the Giant King Book 2] by Donna F. Honafius. This book is now available on Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and the ARPress website. It is a heartwarming story about friendship, teamwork, and the kind of wisdom that comes from helping others. With beautiful illustrations and a gentle message, it’s a lovely read for kids and a great addition to any young reader’s bookshelf.
Donna F. Honafius was born in the small town of Republic, Kansas, in her grandparents’ home. Her early years were spent in seven different homes in Kansas and Arkansas before settling in the big city of Wichita, Kansas. She loves to read, cook, sew, and do crafts of all kinds. In 1965, she earned her first degree from Wichita State University—a Bachelor of Business Administration with two majors. At the age of 65 (in 2006), she earned two Associate Degrees in Early Childhood Education. Donna has two daughters. Her oldest daughter has one child. Her youngest daughter was born in England, where her husband was stationed at RAF Alconbury. She gave birth to four children and has three stepdaughters, each with several children. Donna has a total of nearly 50 grandchildren and great-grandchildren when they are all counted.
The story kicks off when Joey—a gentle giant and kind king—is woken up by the flapping wings of his bird friend, Danny. Danny brings a note from Queen Melissa, whose kingdom is in big trouble: there’s a terrible drought. Joey doesn’t waste a moment. He hops into his hot air balloon and heads off to help, beginning a journey full of discovery, teamwork, and a bit of mystery. As Joey and Danny explore, they find a hidden lake and a blocked path that could bring water back to the thirsty village. Along the way, they come across engraved stones with a message that ties back to a well-known Bible verse: “Wisdom is more precious than jewels… Long life is in her right hand.”
What really makes this book special is how it balances fun adventure with real-life values. Instead of waiting for a miracle, the villagers come together. They organize, work hard, and build a solution themselves—clearing paths, fixing dams, and creating a water system. It’s a great example of how teamwork, determination, and a little bit of wisdom can go a long way.
Donna Honafius, who brings her background in early childhood education to the page, has written more than just a kids’ story—it’s a thoughtful reminder that big challenges can be tackled when people care and work together.
Whether you’re reading it at bedtime or using it to spark a conversation in the classroom, King Joey: Melissa’s Drought is both a sweet adventure and a subtle teaching moment—all told through the eyes of a compassionate giant and his loyal friend. Indeed, it is a story of finding hope in hardship.
King Joey: Melissa’s Drought [Joey the Giant King Book 2] by Donna F. Honafius is now available for purchase via ARPress Bookstore: