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A native Hoosier; born in Terre Haute, a 1958. graduate of Indiana State University, completed a tour of duty in the Army, and upon return home, earned a master’s degree in secondary school administration. In 1964, Jim received an NDEA grant to Michigan State University where he completed the ED. S. in guidance and counseling.

He has served a teacher, counselor, coach, assistant principal, principal, and professor. Jim worked extensively in charter schools and gifted education. From 1974 until 1984, he was principal of Learning Unlimited, MSD Washington Town, Marion Co., IN, a nationally recognized alternative school. He was also privileged to serve as the Executive Director of the Indiana Principal Leadership Academy, Indiana Dept. of Education.

From 1986-1996, Jim was an adjunct professor at Butler University. He worked with more than 300 teachers who received their certification as administrators through the Experiential Program for Preparing School Principals (EPPSP).

In retirement, he has written four books. The Gift: Poetry, Prose, and Prayer, Dark Souls, a historical novel based on the battles between the Indians and early Americans for control of the Northwest Territory 1776-1816, Witness for the Truth: 20 Reasons Jesus Came into the World, and The Lie and the Light. His fifth book, THE WARNING: Darkness Cometh will be released in 2021.

Resurrecting forgotten histories, James Ellsberry’s “Dark Souls and Evil Hearts ”is a gripping tale of struggle and redemption in the Northwest Territory between 1786 and 1816.

The author was inspired by traveling to Wabash, IN and attending the annual reenactment of the War of 1812. After reflecting on what he had seen, he was compelled to explore the untold stories and perspectives of that era. This led him to embark on a research journey to uncover the forgotten narratives of the legendary Shawnee chief, Tecumseh, and his clash with Brigadier General, William Henry Harrison, Secretary of the Northwest Territory.

“Dark Souls” takes readers on an epic journey, immersing them in the life of an orphaned boy captured and raised by Indians. Against the backdrop of the continuing struggle between Great Britain and the newly formed United States, James McFadden comes of age as a man torn between a sense of loyalty to his race and his love for those who raised him.

The story reveals the brutal conflict between the Native Americans and the encroaching white settlers. Through “Dark Souls,” readers gain a understanding of the profound challenges faced by the Native Americans during this tumultuous period. The novel explores the devastating impact of westward expansion on their land and the lies, deceit and broken treaties that ultimately destroyed an entire culture.

For those who love drama, adventure, and exploring the unknown, “Dark Souls” is a story of love and hate that captivates readers; some have said, the characters would spring to life on the silver screen!