Sumter author Tom Winstead publishes his 3rd book

Ninety-two-year-old author Tom Winstead of Sumter has published his third book, "Before the Beginning," through Palmetto Publishing of Charleston. The tale, a mix of truth and fiction, is based on a medical emergency the author experienced in 1963 while stationed at Shaw Air Force Base. According to a news release, "it's a story that will resonate with many Sumter 'oldtimers,' particularly Sumter Jaycees and Chamber members, who may recall the 'battle-field' type, person-to-person transfusion."

"Imagine a lazy afternoon where you find yourself on a temporary visit to both hell and heaven, 'walking and talking with God among the clouds.' This is the experience that the author, Tom Winstead, vividly describes in his book. He engages in conversations with God on various topics, even having coffee with some of the disciples. They discuss the similarities between situations on Earth in their days and current times, making the story relatable and engaging," according to the release.

"As he and God have their heavenly discourse, where universe-level questions and answers abound about the nature of existence, God takes the author on a tour of our Milky Way Galaxy, with a couple of stops along the way. A quick return to the author's old coffee shop on Earth, then it's on to the moon and another coffee shop, this time at the first village on Mars," the release says.

"Before the Beginning" does not have a final chapter, and it is "left open for the reader. The reader is not just invited, but encouraged, to pen their own 'Last Chapter' and share a copy with the author. This unique last chapter could even be featured in a future book of Last Chapters, making the reader an integral part of this extraordinary narrative and its future," according to the release.

Proceeds from Winstead's book will go to local ministries through a nonprofit established and managed by local ministries for that purpose to make a difference in the community.