Writings by Jeff Michaels

Jeff sometimes uses the term, Plain English  to describe his writing and speaking. There’s
a story behind this that goes back to childhood.  The term has been so meaningful, that he has used it for his primary email address for at least the past fifteen years.

When Jeff was a child, he often found himself in a bit of trouble. When confronted by his mother, he would attempt to explain his actions and Mom would simply state, “Give it to me in plain English!” Also,  Jeff has always had a high level of respect and appreciation for English, in both spoken and written forms. Therefore, being articulate and focused in communication is a very high priority and whether spoken or written, it’s always in Plain English!

Descriptions of Jeff’s written materials are below.

I’ll Play My Drum for Him
A children’s story based on the legend of the popular Christmas tune,  The Little Drummer Boy. This book is planned for publication by the end of 2026 and will be available through Amazon and this Web site. Additional details are forthcoming.

Anvil of the Blacksmith (2024)
A novel of historical fiction based on four generations of the Phelps family after their arrival in Geneva, New York in 1829, with a focus on Andrew Phelps and other family members, who lived in Geneva during the mid  to late1800s. Complicated family relationships and challenging social issues during the time period are explored. The first edition was printed on January 12, 2024, the 200th birthday of Andrew Phelps. Contact Jeff for additional information.

Tale of the Tenderfoot (2017)
Jeff describes seven life lessons learned from the trail, based on his many years hiking and backpacking in the Adirondack Mountains of New York State. Taken from the hikers journal he maintained from 1986-2016, there are detailed descriptions of his experiences and favorite places. In addition, he includes thoughts on the events that made these times such a significant part of his life.
Contact Jeff for additional information.

God’s Wonderful Book (2016)
Teaching material developed and tested by Jeff and Dee Michaels
in children’s school-based Bible Club and church ministries. God’s Wonderful Book was written and designed to be a supplement to curriculum already in use by the teacher. An investment of just 5-7 minutes each week will help elementary age children to memorize essential facts about the Bible. With weekly practice, children gain confidence in the Bible as the very best guide in life. The material is beautifully illustrated with eight full-color flashcards by Noelle Okolowicz, a gifted artist and regular contributor to Proverbs 31 Ministries.
Contact Jeff for additional information.

Taconic Tales (2002)
The family history of the Michaels and Burnick lines through three generations. After exhaustive research, the book was published on the 150th anniversary of Martin Michaels’ arrival in New York City from Germany in 1852. Short vignettes tell the story, providing insight into three generations of Michaels and Burnick ancestry.
Contact Jeff for additional information.

Numbered But Not Remembered (2000)
The book presents three generations of Jeff’s maternal Lindsey lines including the Coe, Hawkins, Cutter, Phelps, and Harris families who lived in Chemung County, New York as far back as 1805. Along with factual information, short stories are included that describe life and events in the early 1800s.
Currently out of print.

Inquiries:
By email: ThePlainEnglish@gmail.com