Creativity knows no age limits, and Peter Serko is proof of that. In addition to his roles as activist, photographer, actor, director, and creator of the David Serko Project, Peter has penned his debut novel, Hattie’s War.

The novel tells the compelling story of Hattie, a 19th-century heroine inspired by Peter’s great-great-grandmother. Haunted by the absence of a father she never met—a Union soldier who died during the Civil War before her birth—teenage Hattie embarks on a journey to understand his life and choices. Through Hattie’s eyes, readers are immersed in her world while gaining a thoughtful glimpse into a piece of Civil War history.

Many on Vashon Island know Peter from his years leading the technology department at Vashon High School. Since retiring, his creative pursuits have flourished. After turning 60, Peter has written a novel, become a professional photographer, and created and performed his first play. He was also one of the creative forces behind Vashon World AIDS Day, an initiative he discussed in a November 2024 interview for Embracing the Muse.

To learn more about Peter Serko and Hattie’s War, visit PeterSerko.com.