Some Stories Are Read...Others Must Be Lived

Henley & the Book of Heroes is a spiritually rich, emotionally resonant story about a nine-year-old boy navigating grief, faith, and the quiet fear of being powerless. In the wake of his father’s deployment and his grandfather’s failing health, Henley Banks receives an unexpected gift: The Living Tale, a strange book that claims to hold the key to becoming a true hero.

But Henley doesn’t believe in stories anymore.

What begins as resentment turns extraordinary when he’s pulled (literally) into the world of the book, a vibrant realm called The Garden where every choice he makes carries spiritual weight. There, Henley is challenged to confront the darkness within and around him and learns that heroism is not about strength, but about the heart.

Henley & the Book of Heroes is an adventure that calls us back to the heart of wonder, courage, and imagination. A story of a young boy who discovers that even the smallest among us can change the course of destiny.

We’re bringing this powerful tale to the screen, but we can’t do it alone. We need believers, dreamers, and storytellers like you to help light the path.

Why This Story?

“It’s time for our children to know what a real hero is and why we need them now. Think about it; your favorite heroes display a steadfastness of character that leads them to their destinies. Where did they get this character? From a list of do’s and don’ts? No. Destiny-driving character is the fruit of a vibrant, enduring relationship with Jesus. And the place where this relationship thrives is in the family. No wonder families are under attack; they are the birthplace of greatness. This is where children best learn great love, great courage, and great strength. It’s ok if your family is not perfect. Start where you are and then commit to change your direction. My books demonstrate, through storytelling, the power of a family to war for their children and the power of Jesus, the Hero, to heal them with his great love.”

- Author, Jane H. Smith M.D.

Henley & the Book of Heroes reminds us of the power of faith, resilience, family, and hope. It’s a story that whispers to every child (and the child within us) that heroes are not born, they are made through choices of COURAGE and LOVE.

This film is for families to watch together. It’s for the dreamers who once believed in the impossible. It’s for those who need reminding that in the face of darkness, light always finds a way.

Why Your Support Matters

This project is deeply personal to us. We believe stories can shape how people see themselves, how they face fear, and how they understand love, faith, and purpose. Henley & the Book of Heroes is the kind of story we wish we had growing up. The kind that stays with you long after the credits roll.

By supporting this film, you are helping create something parents and children can watch together, talk about, and return to when they need light in hard moments.

If this story speaks to you, we invite you to be part of it. Your contribution, whether large or small, helps turn this book into a living world on screen. It helps us build The Garden, one frame at a time.

For more information, to view our pitch deck, and learn of Dr. Jane's history, visit Thelivingtale.com/film.

As a thank you for your donations, we have the following perks:

1. $25 donation - a copy of the e-book Henley & The Book of Heroes.
2. $100 donation - a print copy of Henley & The Book of Heroes.
3. $200 donation - a set of all three books in The Living Tale Series.
4. $500 donation - a signed set of books and the >9 hour audio book read and acted by Dr. Jane.
5. $1000 donation - a sneak peek at a scene from the screenplay, plus the other perks.

*Please include your mailing address if you want your physical perk mailed to you.*

More perks coming, like being an extra, having your name appear in the film, and more. Sign up for updates to see sneak peeks and behind the scenes.

Thank you for believing in stories that matter!