Short Novels

These short novels are quick to read and will help you to explore topics ranging from purpose to creativity to making a difference and beyond.

Why learn through stories?

Jack Byrd’s Focus on narrative exploration is part of the broader discovery learning methodology.
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Testimonials

“Sarah’s diary is an eye opening piece that left me not only inspired but motivated. The stories left me thinking for days at a time and taught me to utilize myself to observe the world around me. Not only does this piece generate amazing insights about past innovators, but great advice for future innovators. It’s a piece that will change your life if you allow it to.”

Patricia W.

“Horizons is great for anyone feeling stuck in their careers and not sure what way to turn. The stories are relatable in many ways and the questions provided at the end of each chapter allow each person to reflect on their lives and how they can uncover purpose in what they do. I recommend giving it a read for anyone feeling “stuck” or looking to feel more fulfilled in their lives.”

Ryan M.

“Being able to read the story of Charley’s World moved be like no other. Storytelling is incredibly powerful. It’s more than being told these are good and these things are bad. You see how choices play out and get to experience others thoughts and perspectives. It is truly moving. I truly grew so much from reading Charley’s World and recommend reading this story, it will truly inspire you.”

Liz R.

“Horizons is the latest of Dr. Byrd’s thought-provoking series designed to help us learn more about ourselves and each other. I incorporated this reflection series as part of my weekly routine and really appreciated the moment to pause mull over different concepts of my career, interests, and personal life. I’d highly recommend this series for anyone of any age, but especially those just starting their careers with a growth-mindset who might be asking themselves “why am I here?” Or “what’s next?” Hopefully Horizons will become part of your routine too!”

Wiil K.

Jack Byrd Jr.

Author

Rather than present my background in a traditional academic format, I would like to share my career journey, since that is what this course is about. I came to West Virginia University (WVU) from Fairmont, WV. My first memory as a child was being told by my parents that I needed to do well in school because I would be going to WVU.

I chose engineering as a major because I liked math. I have never been a social person, and the thought of giving presentations was very frightening. I didn’t want a career where I would be asked to do presentations. I had an internship with Eastman Kodak. The plant employed more people than lived in my hometown (22,000). I loved the work but was disappointed by how little of an impact my work had at this massive site.

I decided to continue in school to get my Master’s, largely because our basketball team was going to be great. After finishing my Master’s, I decided to continue on to get a PhD. I never gave much thought to my career decisions. A turning point in my life was when a classmate of mine lost his father unexpectedly. He asked me to take his classes. Although I had a real fear of public speaking, I agreed. I found out that I loved teaching.

I was given an opportunity to stay at WVU when I graduated with my PhD, and accepted. I’ve always been very creative, so developing research proposals was something that was easy for me. I was awarded one of NSF’s top awards for young scholars. When I presented my work at a research conference, I had another career epiphany. I just couldn’t imagine a career where the scope of my work was limited to a ballroom of people.

Early in my career, I was awarded the first Faculty Merit Foundation honor of being the best college professor in the state. This gave me some freedom to focus my career on teaching. Now in my 7th decade of teaching, I believe I have taught more students at WVU than any other professor.

In April of 2019, I found out that I had cancer. Originally, I thought I could resume classes after a summer of treatment, but the treatment was too challenging. Reluctantly, I had to retire.

But I couldn’t stop teaching. I taught online classes during the one year of treatment. When my surgeon came to see me the morning after a six-hour surgery, I was grading papers. I told him, “I love what I do.” He just shook his head.

I hope that you will find an equally satisfying career and that this course will give you the ability to find your own purpose as I have done.