Welcome to my writing cave, where myth, magic, and mystery collide. Please come on in, step closer to the fire, and let's share some stories...

Jinn & Pics

My current Young Adult manuscript is all about the Jinn, or genies as they are commonly called. In my world, the Jinn's heartland is in Cappadocia, Turkey.

Cappadocia is a remarkable area, and to truly appreciate its natural beauty and fantastic landscaping, seeing is believing.

These fantastically-shaped eroded volcanic formations are called Fairy Chimneys, or as I like to call them, Jinn Chimneys!

Massive Fairy Chimney Massive Fairy Chimney
A very large Fairy Chimney of Cappadocia that has been used for a home. Another massive Fairy Chimney.
Massive Fairy Chimney Jandarma Fairy Chimney
And another. Notice the many levels. This jandarma, or jail, has been carved into the soft rock.
Dusk view of landscape Forest of Jinn Chimneys
A dusk view of this incredible landscape. A forest of Fairy Chimneys. The original steeple, or minarets, or whatever else comes to mind.
Balloon View Cappadocia Cappadocian Town
A Balloon's-Eye view of Cappadocia A Cappadocian Town, with many Fairy Chimneys as well as contemporary construction.
Rippled Cliff Cappadocia Hotel
Rippled cliffs in this fantastical landscape. A hotel in Cappadocia carved into a cliff.
Underground Cappadocia Underground Cappadocia
A view of the various levels and tunnels inside one of the deep underground cities. Inside one of the underground cities. Notice the massive mill wheel used for defense.
Diagram Underground Cappadocia Whirling Dervishes
This is a diagram of one underground city in Cappadocia, Kaymakli. There are many of these underground cities that go several levels deep into the soft rock. The Whirling Dervishes are from Konya, in Turkey, which is very near to Cappadocia.
Girls Playing Soccer Roman Mosaic
Some young women playing soccer in rural Turkey. Dress is similar to native Jinn. This is an old Roman mosaic from Zeugma, now in SouthEastern Turkey. She is commonly called the Gypsy Girl, but I prefer to think of her as an ancient Jinn.