Picture a storyteller who spun tales of Ice Age adventurers braving a frozen world—meet William Sarabande! Under this pen name, Joan Lesley Hamilton Cline crafted the internationally bestselling First Americans series, transporting readers to a time when mammoths roamed and survival was a daily triumph. With vivid prose and meticulous research, Sarabande brought prehistoric America to life, blending adventure, heart, and humanity.
Born in Hollywood, California, Sarabande’s passion for storytelling ignited early, leading to a career that captivated readers worldwide. Her novels aren’t just stories—they’re time machines, offering a glimpse into the lives of our earliest ancestors. Let’s dive into the world of William Sarabande and discover why her work still resonates.
The Making of William Sarabande
Joan Lesley Hamilton Cline, born on April 17, 1942, in the glitz of Hollywood, found her calling at just 17. Writing under the pseudonym William Sarabande, she published her first work in 1979, channeling her love for history and storytelling. Living near Big Bear Lake in Fawnskin, California, with her husband, she drew inspiration from the rugged landscapes that echoed the wild settings of her novels. Her early career included works like The Lion and the Cross, published under her real name, but it was as Sarabande that she truly soared.
Her fascination with prehistoric cultures and survival shaped her unique voice. Unlike many historical fiction writers, Sarabande combined rigorous research with a knack for crafting relatable characters, making the distant past feel immediate and alive.
William Sarabande’s Unforgettable Stories
Sarabande’s First Americans series, spanning 11 novels, is her crowning achievement. Published by Bantam Books, the series follows the epic journey of the first people to cross the Bering Strait from Siberia into America during the Ice Age. The saga begins with Beyond the Sea of Ice (1987), where Torka and Lonit face perilous landscapes and hostile tribes, setting the tone for a gripping tale of resilience.
Corridor of Storms (1988) deepens the adventure, introducing complex characters like the villainous Navahk and exploring themes of leadership and betrayal. Forbidden Land (1989) and Walkers of the Wind (1990) continue Torka’s saga, blending raw survival with emotional depth. Sarabande’s style is panoramic yet intimate, painting vivid scenes of icy wilderness while delving into her characters’ hopes and fears. Her later novel, Wolves of the Dawn (1986), shifts to Bronze Age Celtic Britain, showcasing her versatility in capturing ancient worlds.
What sets Sarabande apart is her unflinching portrayal of life’s harshness, distinct from the romanticized prehistoric tales of authors like Jean M. Auel. Her stories pulse with authenticity, grounded in themes of courage, community, and the human spirit’s endurance.
Why William Sarabande Matters
Sarabande’s work transcends entertainment, offering a window into the dawn of human civilization. Her meticulous research and evocative storytelling have inspired readers to connect with their ancestral roots, sparking curiosity about prehistoric life. The First Americans series, with its global readership, has left a lasting mark on historical fiction, influencing authors like W. Michael Gear and Kathleen O’Neal Gear.
Her legacy lies in making the past accessible and relatable, reminding us that survival and hope are timeless. Sarabande’s novels continue to captivate, inviting new generations to explore the challenges and triumphs of those who came before us.
- Born: April 17, 1942, in Hollywood, California
- Key Works: First Americans series, Wolves of the Dawn
- Pen Name: Joan Lesley Hamilton Cline
- Residence: Fawnskin, California
About William Sarabande
Ready to travel back to the Ice Age? Snag Beyond the Sea of Ice and dive into William Sarabande’s thrilling world of adventure and survival!