Memory in the Clay

A Story Shaped by Time

In a quiet forest near Florida’s ancient springs, a young girl named Sula kneels by a shell mound, unaware she’s about to shape something much bigger than clay.

Inspired by real archaeological discoveries and the beauty of the Late Archaic landscape, Memory in the Clay is a lyrical coming-of-age story that weaves together ancestral memory, gentle mystery, and the bravery it takes to create something new.

This illustrated short story is written at a 6th-grade reading level, perfect for bedtime storytelling, homeschool enrichment, or quiet reflection with a cup of tea.

What’s Inside

  • The complete 6-chapter illustrated story

  • Poetic, immersive storytelling for readers of all ages

  • Rooted in real history, told through a fictional lens

  • Original artwork in a hand-drawn watercolor sketch style

  • Includes an Author’s Note and a thoughtful Epilogue

This content is included in all versions of the book—eBook, paperback, and hardcover.

The printed editions (paperback and hardcover) also feature special bonus content:

  • A bonus version of Sula’s dream

  • Reflections in the Clay: a journaling and creative thinking section inviting readers to connect with the story’s deeper themes

  • The World Behind the Story: a visual and written exploration of real pottery, artifacts, and landscapes from ancient Florida that inspired the tale

Purchase

eBook Edition

Perfect for on-the-go readers and digital book lovers!
This downloadable edition includes:

  • The full 6 chapter illustrated story

  • Author’s Note and Epilogue

  • Original watercolor-style artwork throughout

  • A beautiful introduction to Sula’s world accessible on all major e-readers.

Digital PDF Edition

A full-color, printable edition with everything included.
This version mirrors the printed book and more:

  • 6 illustrated chapters + Author’s Note and Epilogue

  • Bonus version of Sula’s dream

  • Reflections in the Clay journaling section

  • The World Behind the Story featuring real archaeological references and imagery

  • The complete Teacher Resource Pack (ELA, Social Studies, and Art activities)

Perfect for homeschooling families, educators, or anyone wanting the full experience in digital form.

Paperback & Hardcover Editions

Beautiful printed versions to hold, gift, or keep on your bookshelf.
Each includes:

  • The full 6 chapter illustrated story

  • Author’s Note and Epilogue

  • Bonus version of Sula’s dream

  • Reflections in the Clay guided journal prompts

  • The World Behind the Story educational reference section

Choose paperback for a lightweight, reader-friendly format or hardcover for a keepsake-quality edition.

Teacher Resource Pack

A companion pack designed for educators, homeschoolers, and learning facilitators.
Includes:

  • A historical reading passage about the Late Archaic period

  • Vocabulary and comprehension questions

  • Reflective discussion prompts

  • Hands-on art and writing activities

  • Standards-aligned objectives in ELA, Social Studies, and Visual Arts

This standalone option is perfect for those purchasing printed books and wanting the classroom-ready tools in a separate file.

Prefer to Listen?

The audio version of Memory in the Clay is coming soon, complete with original scene art and ambient storytelling.

About the Author

Sharhan Soberg is a storyteller, educator, and lifelong student of the quiet connections between the past and present. She writes stories inspired by archaeology, nature, and the spark of imagination that lives in all of us.

Explore more stories → [link]
Follow on social media → [TikTok / Instagram / Facebook]

Share This Story

Love Memory in the Clay? Share it with a friend, a teacher, or a fellow storyteller. Use the hashtag #MemoryInTheClay and tag me, I’d love to see how it speaks to you.

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