December 3, 2009

By: Alicia Sturgess and Matthew Davis

At a young age, Rexburg, Idaho author Jonathan Vernon began to experience life in a fantasized, imaginary world. This alternate reality is known in the medical world as a psychotic break, which is a symptom of schizoaffective-a cousin to schizophrenia. After being diagnosed with this psychological disorder, Vernon was inspired to use his challenge to fulfill his dream of becoming a professional writer.

“A psychotic break usually begin as an emotional overload which causes a fantasy world to become your reality,” said Vernon. “This happens frequently to writers, musicians and artists. Their imagination works so hard that their brain goes into a retreat mode and they create an alternate reality.”

In Vernon’s case, this disorder has been helpful in his writing career. His psychotic disorder inspired him to develop his passion for writing and create his first novel, Esias: Remnants of the Past. As a result of his disorder, he was able to use his imagination to create the characters, setting and storyline of his novel.

However, Vernon’s road to success hasn’t been an easy one. One doctor said that his condition would prevent him from graduating high school or attending college. He proved this doctor wrong by graduating from Sugar Salem High School and receiving associate and bachelor’s degrees from Ricks College and Utah State University with a 3.8 GPA. His example proves that trials can be overcome and used to enhance one’s life.

            In addition to graduating from high school and college, Vernon has become a husband, father and professional writer. Although his condition continues to affect his life, Vernon focuses on how he can use his mental disability to his advantage and has successfully done so.

Esias: Remnants of the Past is now available at the BYU-Idaho Bookstore, chain bookstores, as well as on Amazon.com and Barnesandnoble.com. For more information about Jonathan Vernon and his new novel visit www.jonathanvernon.com or e-mail him at jonathanvernon@hotmail.com.