For Jeff, storytelling has always been second nature. Now, his lifelong dream of publishing a book has come true with 16 Short Stories by Jeffrey Joseph Roman, his pen name. Last week, he proudly signed copies at Sunshine Communities, celebrating this incredible achievement.
Jeff finds inspiration in the world around him—daily interactions, TV shows, and memories. Writing since 1989, he credits Little House on the Prairie author Laura Ingalls Wilder and his sister, Roberta, for encouraging his creativity.
His book is a collection of imaginative tales covering everything from royal adventures to daring escapes. His favorite, Treehouse, details his dream of repurposing a doghouse into a treetop hideaway—complete with a camping stove and a five-gallon water jug.
Penelope Farley, a junior at Maumee High School, brought the book to life with her cover and illustration designs. As part of her National Honor Society project, she used AI tools and creative vision to bring Jeffrey’s words to life.
Lori Richard, Sunshine’s Director of Community Engagement, knew how much publishing meant to Jeffrey. “He never stopped writing. Helping him share his stories was an easy ‘yes,’” she said.
With 100 copies sold, Jeffrey is already looking ahead. His next goal? More writing materials—and a fishing pole.
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