Book Launch!!!
WILDOMAR, CA – AUGUST 1, 2026 – The Wildomar Historical Society is proud to announce the release of The Secrets of Wildomar on August 1st at the Wildomar Public Library from 10:30-12:30 p.m., a captivating new fictional adventure novel for kids and adults that brings the rich, pioneering heritage of Wildomar, California, to life for a new generation.
Authored by Wildomar resident and Wildomar Historical Society Board Member, Karen Ellison, this timeless tale follows ten-year-old twins Lina and Rey as they discover a mysterious map hidden beneath the floorboards of an old Victorian shed during a Founders’ Day celebration. Their journey takes them on a “rollercoaster” trail through the local foothills. During their adventure, they encounter the echoes of Wildomar’s real-life founders: Margaret Collier Graham, Donald Graham, and William Collier. While the modern characters and conversations are products of imagination, the historical figures, landmarks, and the town’s unique origin story are grounded in authentic local history.
“Our goal was to create an adventure that truly captures the imagination of young readers while grounding them in the incredible heritage of Wildomar,” said author Karen Ellison. “By spotlighting our local landmarks and the stories of our founders, we hope to ignite a lasting curiosity that encourages families to explore, learn, and discuss the history of our remarkable little rural city.”
In a significant gesture of community support, the Wildomar Historical Society has announced that **100% of the book’s proceeds—from both online and in-person sales—will go directly to the Wildomar Historical Society. These funds will support the society’s mission to collect and preserve historical materials, host educational programs, and establish in time, a museum to showcase the artifacts and stories of Wildomar’s rural roots.
Key Contributors & Features:
· All Contributors are Members of the Wildomar Historical Society
o Author: Karen Ellison
o Story: Karen Ellison, Connie Nader, Patrice Johnston, and Suzanne Saunders
o Editor: Connie Nader
o Illustrations: Karen Ellison with the assistance of Ideogram Version 3.0 and DeeVid 2.0.
· Educational Appendix: The book includes a historical “Fun Facts” section detailing the life of railway surgeon Dr. Oscar Brown, the literary legacy of Margaret Collier Graham, and the mystery of the “missing” pioneer graves in the western hills.
· Secrets of Wildomar (ISBN: 9798184070513) is available now through Amazon, Wildomar Historical Society and at local community events.
About the Wildomar Historical Society:
The Wildomar Historical Society is a non-profit organization dedicated to preserving the heritage of Wildomar, California. Through archives, community events, and preservation efforts, the Society works to keep the stories of early pioneer families alive for future generations.