Welcome

John Michael Heard is a writer based in Lexington, Kentucky. He currently serves as the Writer in Residence at Arise Church. He writes in a variety of genres—from wild and whimsical children’s books to contemplative essays.

John Michael is an American who was raised in Almaty, Kazakhstan. His experiences abroad have shaped and inspired much of his writing. He studied film at Asbury University, and he earned a Master’s degree in Theological Studies from Asbury Theological Seminary.

John Michael works on staff at the Lewis House, a student ministry on the campus of the University of Kentucky.

Contact John Michael for writing and speaking inquiries.

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Writing

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Upcoming Book Release

John Michael is a 2026 Creo Arts Art Project grantee. He will be working with internationally awarded artist Josh Tiessen to illustrate and publish his middle grade children’s book, Mr. Halick’s Planet.

Mr. Halick’s Planet is a story about twins Evan and Jane who arrive at Mr. Halick’s planet to find that their remarkable host is creating a pristine utopia void of human limitations, but the sacrifices he’s making in the process threaten the planet, and with it, their very lives.

To hear updates about the project and read new essays published regularly, subscribe to John Michael's Substack, Not Yet Home.

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