The Harmony Tree Prequel: Different is Good!

by Randy Woodley

This is the third book in the Harmony Tree Series. It is a story of how a boy, Sage, who is different than all the other boys, finds his place in society because he is accepted for his particular giftings instead of complying to popular expectations. In most tribal societies differently gifted individuals were not looked down upon but considered sacred. The author has close relatives who are neurodivergent, but the story will be an encouragement for any child who is different; to the parents of such children, and to teach other children cultural and inter-relational sensitivity. In this third book, as in the prior two, parents will be able to pick out the ecological theme. The Harmony Tree Different is Good encourages animal species preservation.

Randy Woodley is an esteemed scholar, teacher, and author known for his work in the fields of theology, justice, and Indigenous rights. With a deep understanding of Native American culture and spirituality, Randy has dedicated his life to promoting reconciliation between Indigenous peoples and the rest of the world. As a Cherokee descendant, recognized by the Keetoowah Band, Randy brings a unique perspective to conversations around spirituality, ecology, and social justice. His teachings emphasize the interconnectedness of all living beings and the importance of caretaking the Earth.

Randy has written numerous books, articles, and essays, sharing his wisdom and insights. His works are renowned for their thoughtfulness, depth, and ability to challenge traditional paradigms. Randy Woodley invites us all to reflect on our relationship with the Earth and each other, urging us to recognize the wisdom and presence of Indigenous voices in shaping a more inclusive and sustainable future. He and his wife co-sustain Eloheh Indigenous Center for Earth Justice and Eloheh Farm & Seeds.

28 pages, Hardcover

Published March 1, 2024

About the author

Rev. Randy Woodley (PhD, Asbury Theological Seminary) is Distinguished Professor of Faith and Culture and Director of Intercultural and Indigenous Studies at Portland Seminary. Woodley is a Keetoowah Cherokee (legal descendent) teacher, poet, activist, former pastor, missiologist and historian. Woodley received his baccalaureate degree from Rockmont College in Denver. He was ordained to the ministry through the American Baptist Churches in the USA in Oklahoma after graduating with a Masters of Divinity degree from Eastern Seminary (now Palmer Seminary) in Philadelphia. Randy's PhD is in intercultural studies from Asbury Seminary in Wilmore, Kentucky.

Professor Woodley is active in the ongoing discussions concerning new church movements, racial and ethnic diversity, peace, social justice, interreligious dialogue and mission. He regularly blogs in these areas and publishes his own blog, Ethnic Space and Faith. He is also a regular contributor to God's Politics Blog: Jim Wallis and Friends, Emergent Village Voice and The Huffington Post’s religion page.

He also hosts the "Peacing it all together" podcast about journey and place with Bo Sanders.

Rev. Woodley was pastor of the Eagle Valley Church in Carson City, Nevada, which for many years served as a unique role model as an authentic Native American Christian church. He and his wife Edith, cofounders of Eagle's Wings Ministry, are considered early innovators in what has been dubbed the “Native American Contextual Movement.” The Woodleys have spent over 25 years of culturally contextual service in Native North American communities.