Ray's Reviews: The Storied Life of A.J. Fikry by GAbrielle Zevin

Gabrielle Zevin will be discussing her writings and signing books 

on Wednesday at 7 pm at Schuler Books, 

Eastwood Town Center, Lansing.

"The Storied Life of A.J. Fikry" by Gabrielle Zevin (Algonquin, $24.95) is an intriguing tale that focuses on the life of Fikry, owner of a small new bookshop located in an old Victorian house on an island off the East Coast.

It's entertaining escapism that starts off a little slow, but soon becomes considerably more interesting. The main cantankerous character goes through a remarkable metamorphosis, after an unexpected, life-changing event.

Full of quirky, unusual characters (including a police officer, a book sales representative and a soused author), the compelling tale is tough to put down. At times, however, there are unpredictable occurrences that stretch believability.

Zevin, who's written five books for young adults plus two other novels, is in fine form with a memorable tale about life, love, risk-taking and growth.

It could easily be produced as a made-for-TV movie. "Fikry" is a great novel for beach reading and would be an excellent choice for a book club discussion group.

Ray Walsh, owner of East Lansing’s Curious Book Shop, 

has reviewed books regularly since 1987.

Find this book and other great titles

at the Curious Book Shop, an independent 

book shop in East Lansing, founded in 1969.

Curious Book Shop

307 East Grand River Avenue

East Lansing, Michigan

517.332.0112

This review was originally published by the Lansing State Journal on  May 7, 2014.

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Book Review: Daughter of Chaos by Jen McConnel

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Jen McConnel will be talking about writing and will be signing books 

on Saturday at 7 PM at Schuler Books, Meridian Mall, 1982 W. Grand River, Okemos.

She will also be signing on Sunday, April 13, at 1 PM 

at Barnes & Noble Books, Southland Shopping Center in Portage.

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"Daughter of Chaos" by Jen McConnel (Month9Books, $12.99) is an intriguing young adult tale that focuses on an energetic 16-year-old girl's dealings with witchcraft.

Set in contemporary times, it introduces Darlena, who's attending Trinity School in North Carolina. This isn't your typical private school; the students are learning about witchcraft.

Darlena is facing considerable pressure from her friends and parents about choosing which witchcraft path to choose, Green, White or Black. Each path emphasizes particular areas of knowledge, utility specific experience.

The goddess Hecate unexpectedly appears at her house and forces her to make a decision. Darlena nervously and impulsively chooses Red magic, not knowing anything about it.

Darlena's parents are followers of Green magic; her boyfriend Justin believes in White magic. Darlena's best friend Rochelle is dedicated to Black magic; all are aghast at her choice.

Complications quickly arise as Darlena tries to learn more about Red magic; she's kicked out of Trinity School and visited by other powerful witches, including Persephone and Aphrodite.

When she initially utilizes her magic, she's stunned at the results; later she must make more difficult, dangerous decisions. If you're knowledgeable about mythology, you may find this book particularly enjoyable.

"Daughter of Chaos" is a well-designed trade paperback that's the first of a trilogy. It's a highly entertaining, unusual, young adult coming-of-age- tale that should appeal to a variety of readers.

The author is a former Michigander who graduated from Western Michigan University and now resides in North Carolina. She is a guest speaker at next Saturday's Rally for Writers Conference at Lansing Community College, West Campus.

McConnel is also the author of "Secret of Isobel Key" (set in Scotland) and "Goddess Spells for the Busy Girl: Get Rich, Get Happy, Get Lucky."

Her poetry and other writings have appeared in numerous publications. She has been a librarian and bookseller; she teaches college writing composition and yoga. She has her own blog; her website is www.jenmcconnel.com.

Ray Walsh, owner of East Lansing’s Curious Book Shop, 

has reviewed books regularly since 1987.

Find this book and other great titles

at the Curious Book Shop, an independent 

book shop in East Lansing, founded in 1969.

Curious Book Shop

307 East Grand River Avenue

East Lansing, Michigan

517.332.0112

This review was originally published by the Lansing State Journal on  April 6, 2014.

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Ray's Review: Destroyer Angel by Nevada Barr

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Nevada Barr will be reading and signing books on Thursday at 7:00 PM at Schuler Books, Meridian Mall, 1982 W Grand River, Okemos.

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"Destroyer Angel" by award-winning author Nevada Barr (Minotaur Books, $26.99) is the latest in her exceptionally popular, best-selling series starring Park Ranger Anna Pigeon.

Scheduled for release on Tuesday, the harrowing tale is a compelling page-turner, full of riveting action and tense suspense.

This is more of a thriller than a detective novel. Anna must use all of her knowledge and skills in a deadly struggle for survival.

Set in Minnesota's upstate Iron Range area, the highly entertaining tale begins with Anna taking a much-needed vacation after a summer fighting wildfires.

She's on a camping trip/vacation joining her friend Heath (a paraplegic), Heath's 15-year-old adopted daughter Elizabeth and Leah (a wealthy outdoor equipment designer) and her 13-year-old daughter Katie.

Heath's aging dog Wily is also along for the trip, which was intended to test out a new design for camping gear for the disabled.

On the second day, Anna paddles off for a solitary canoe trip; as she comes back she hears loud voices. She realizes that her friends are being held as hostages by four heavily armed thugs.

The men plan on going through the wilderness with their captives to an airplane rendezvous site. The nasty kidnappers think this should be relatively easy, but run into unexpected delays. Their journey is complicated by difficult terrain and their unfamiliarity with the woods.

Anna is joined by the injured dog Wily as she attempts to rescue her friends by any means possible. She doesn't have any weapons or a cell phone, but she's got lots of experience in handling difficult situations.

The captive women face challenges as well, including potential sexual abuse and physical abuse. It's easy to cheer for Anna!

Barr does an outstanding job with character development; the narrative is deftly told from alternating, contrasting points of view.

This is a captivating novel laced with dark humor, a touch of the supernatural, considerable violence and gripping situations.

If you haven't followed any of Anna's earlier appearances, you won't feel too out of place by using this as a starting point and then back-tracking.

Ray Walsh, owner of East Lansing’s Curious Book Shop, 

has reviewed crime novels and noir thrillers regularly since 1987.

Find this book and other great titles

at the Curious Book Shop, an independent 

book shop in East Lansing, founded in 1969.

Curious Book Shop

307 East Grand River Avenue

East Lansing, Michigan

517.332.0112

This review was originally published by the Lansing State Journal on March 30, 2014.

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Ray's Reviews: The Last Dead Girl by Harry Dolan

Harry Dolan will be discussing writing and signing copies of his books 

on Saturday, January 11th at 2 pm at Schuler's Books, Meridian Mall, Okemos

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"The Last Dead Girl" by Harry Dolan (Amy Einhorn/Putnam, $26.95) is a highly entertaining, exceptional crime novel. 

Scheduled for release on Thursday, it's a prequel to his two earlier compelling mysteries set in Ann Arbor - his acclaimed debut novel "Bad Things Happen" and its fast-paced sequel, "Very Bad Men."

In those books the main character, going under the name David Loogan, has gotten a job editing "Gray Space," a crime fiction magazine.

Dolan's new book is set in 1998, in the town of Rome, New York. Loogan is living and operating a small building inspection business using his real name of David Malone.

After viewing a sudden car accident, Malone comes to the driver's aid, helping beautiful Jana Fletcher, a young law student.

The chance encounter turns into a fast romance, but both lovers have their own dark secrets.

When Fletcher is murdered, Malone becomes a prime suspect; he decides to investigate and makes unnerving discoveries.

Fletcher was living in a run-down apartment with few possessions and had a nasty bruise on her face. Malone is also hiding the truth and is trying to figure out what to do about an unsettling, life-changing situation.

Detective Frank Moretti is working the case and doesn't want Malone's assistance - there are many other complications and more suspicious murders.

Dolan again has created a strong cast of likable and despicable characters and a clever killer with his own agenda.

The author deftly shifts viewpoints as the plot develops, with numerous surprises and deadly situations.

Dolan is one of America's best new crime writers; if you haven't discovered him, you're in for a real treat!

Ray Walsh, owner of East Lansing's Curious Book Shop, 

has reviewed noir thrillers and crime novels since 1987.

Find this book and other great titles

at the Curious Book Shop, an independent 

book shop in East Lansing, founded in 1969.

Curious Book Shop

307 East Grand River Avenue

East Lansing, Michigan

517.332.0112

This review was originally published by the Lansing State Journal on Sunday, January 5, 2014.

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Ray's Reviews: Exception by Michigan Author Michael K. Sands

Michael K. Sands will be signing copies of his book 

on Wednesday at 6:00 PM at Schuler's Books, 

1982 W. Grand River (Meridian Mall) Okemos.

"Exception", a suspense novel by Gaylord author Michael K. Sands (Sturgeon Valley Associates, $14.00), is an exceptionally fast-paced thriller that's tough to put down.

The self-published trade paperback has a nifty cover design, likable and despicable characters and enough plot twists to keep your head spinning.

In the best James Patterson tradition, short action-packed chapters abound - there's 155 of them in the 346 page book. 

It focuses on cutting-edge neurobiology, showcasing Julie Brewster, who's involved in a highly secret defense project to surgically implant a computer chip into a human brain.

She works at a specialized cybernetics and medical research company where an associate died in what was ruled "an unfortunate accident."

Julie thinks that the surgeon's death was cleverly planned and asks Seattle computer expert Jason Coulter, her former lover, to help investigate.

Their search for the truth uncovers unnerving facts and a hidden agenda; soon the pair is on the run, chased by a hulking menace. 

As if that's not bad enough, the true villain hacks into computer networks, making them sought by the police and other authorities for a multitude of crimes, including murder.

The convoluted tale is overflowing with non-stop, adrenaline-charged action, with many close calls and death-defying scenes.

Relationships are a vital part of this entertaining novel; there are many emotional challenges throughout .

A  variety of law enforcement officers are involved, including one who's almost killed and another who follows his instincts instead of just obeying the rules.

You don't really have to be a brain scientist to appreciate this thriller, as the author manages to get across most of the relevant information in understandable chunks.

This would be an easy novel to produce as a gripping motion picture or could even be made into a captivating television series.

Micheal K. Sands is the pseudonym of Tom Kellogg, a graduate of Northern Michigan University. He's had a varied career as a machinist, carpenter, commercial planner and flight instructor.

Currently he's teaching at North Central Michigan College and has completed a sequel to this book.

His website is www.michaelksands.com

Ray Walsh, owner of East Lansing's Curious Book Shop, 

has reviewed crime novels and Michigan books regularly since 1987.

Find this book and other great Michigan titles

at the Curious Book Shop, an independent 

book shop in East Lansing, founded in 1969.

Curious Book Shop

307 East Grand River Avenue

East Lansing, Michigan

517.332.0112

This review was published by the Lansing State Journal on Sunday, October 20, 2013.

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Ray's Reviews: William Kent Krueger's Tamarack County

William Kent Krueger, Cara Black and Libby Fischer Hellman will be discussing their latest books and signing autographs Friday at 7:00 pm at Schuler's Books, 1982 West Grand River Ave. (Meridian Mall), Okemos.


Tamarack County” by William Kent Krueger (Atria, $24.99) is the 13^th book in his popular, best-selling series staring Cork O'Connor.

Photo courtesy of Facebook

“

The Minnesota sheriff-turned-private investigator gets involved in a puzzling case: he's trying to figure out what happened to the elderly wife of a retired local judge.

Evelyn Carter's car has turned up abandoned on a rural road during a blizzard, but she's nowhere to be found. Her husband, suffering from Dementia, is of little help. The search and rescue team, assisted by O'Connor, has few clues.

Meanwhile, it's the holiday season; Anne, O'Connor's younger daughter, has returned home, planning on leaving the religious order she recently joined. Stephen, O'Connor's teen-aged son, has discovered love, but complications arise.

When a large, friendly dog is discovered decapitated nearby, O'Connor begins to wonder if there may be a pattern. Further investigation provides an unusual link – they may be related to a murder case involving O'Connor that took place over 20 years ago.

When it becomes apparent that there's a deviant sociopath on the loose, O'Connor realizes one of his family members may be the next target.

Krueger is in fine form in this superb, highly atmospheric tale, deftly capturing a wide range of emotions and conflicts between assorted characters.

He smoothly utilizes American Indian mysticism and traditional lore as he weaves together a complex, yet believable, plot full of surprises.

If you haven't read any of William Kent Krueger's excellent mysteries, you're in for a real treat!

Ray Walsh, owner of East Lansing's Curious Book Shop, 

has reviewed crime novels and Michigan books regularly since 1987.

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Ray's Reviews: Steve Hamilton's Let It Burn

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Steve Hamilton will be signing novels at a 
BOOK LAUNCH PARTY on 

Tue. July 2 at 7:00 PM at Schuler Books, 

1892 West Grand River Ave. (Meridian Mall) Okemos.

He will also be signing on Friday, July 5 at 7:00 PM 

at Aunt Agatha's, 213 South Fourth Ave., Ann Arbor.

______________________________________________________________________________________________________

"Let It Burn" by multiple Edgar-Award winning author Steve Hamilton (Minotaur, $25.99) is the tenth in his very popular series starring private detective Alex McKnight.

Scheduled for release on Tuesday, this excellent crime novel is set minimally in his usual stomping grounds in the Upper Peninsula.

Most of the action takes place in decaying Detroit, with flashbacks to a time when McKnight was still a cop, before he was severely wounded and his partner was killed.

McKnight's last arrest, before he was shot, was teenager Daryl King, discovered in the huge, abandoned Michigan Central Train Station with a brutally murdered woman.

A colleague notifies McKnight of Daryl's impending release and is worried that revenge might be on the prisoner's mind.

McKnight drives down to Detroit to discuss the case with the old friend; it also gives him an opportunity to contact Janet Long, an FBI agent.

Although Daryl confessed to the crime, McKnight was hospitalized and not around for the trial. He has suspicions that Daryl isn't telling the complete truth and decides to investigate.

The diligent private eye uses his gut feelings and a variety of sources to gather information, discovering that there were other similar murders that took place after Daryl was sent to prison.

McKnight's investigation raises considerably more questions; the FBI becomes more involved as unnerving facts emerge.

The author's description of the current state of Detroit is exceptionally accurate. He deftly captures McKnight's distress at the ongoing decay of the once bustling and proud metropolitan center, noting "it's turning into a ghost town."

A graduate of the University of Michigan, Hamilton won  the coveted Edgar Award for Best First Novel in 1988 for "A Cold Day In Paradise" and for Best Novel, for "The Lock Artist" which was published in 2010.

He's in fine form with his latest release, creating a highly entertaining crime novel with great characters and many unexpected plot twists.

If you haven't discovered Hamilton, you're due for a real treat - most of his superb McKnight mysteries are set in Paradise, in Michigan's Upper Peninsula.

Ray Walsh, owner of East Lansing's Curious Book Shop 

grew up in northwest Detroit. He's reviewed crime novels and 

Michigan books regularly since 1987.

Find this and other books by great Michigan authors

at the Curious Book Shop, an independent 

book shop in East Lansing, founded in 1969.

Curious Book Shop

307 East Grand River Avenue

East Lansing, Michigan

517.332.0112

This review was published by the Lansing State Journal on June 30, 2013.

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Ray's Reviews: Bootstrapper by Michigan author Mardi Jo Link

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Mardi Jo Link will be signing books on Wednesday at 7 PM at Schuler Books, 

Meridian Mall, 1982 W. Grand River, Okemos.

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"Bootstrapper" by Mardi Jo Link (Knopf, $24.95) is subtitled "From Broke to Badass on a Northern Michigan Farm."

It's an enjoyable, intriguing memoir from a strong-willed, contemporary woman about raising her three sons and their struggle for survival. 

Told in a realistic, down-to-earth style, Link recalls a variety of her family's challenging lifestyle experiences in Northern Michigan in 2005-2006.

This could easily have been turned into a depressing memoir about all the things that went wrong in her life. Instead it's a fascinating look at her family's ability to persevere and use assorted, often creative innovations to succeed. 

It opens with her reflections upon her upcoming divorce from her husband of over 19 years (dubbed sarcastically as "Mr. Wonderful").

Divorce court looms, there's a large amount of debt; she wants to hang on to the century-old farmhouse near Grand Traverse Bay that's been in her family for generations.

Raising three energetic kids with little money is no easy task either. Her economic hardship is eased a bit by unusual circumstances, such as winning a zucchini-growing contest, which gives her a year's supply of local bread. 

She and her sons raise a hog, then run into problems when it reaches 220 pounds. She suffers through intense illness and has to deal with massive area snowfalls. 

There are other catastrophes that can't be overcome, including heartfelt emotional loss and frustrations when usually reliable resources fail.

In an effort to deal with an aggravating school official, she must learn to swallow her pride. She continues to seek a fitting church that her family will want to attend. 

They decide to raise chickens, but this too has hilarious and sometimes unexpected sad consequences. Link's memoir is full of scenes of self-discovery and growth, even though she doesn't always like what she sees.

This is a change of pace for Link, the author of two true crime volumes and the winner of a Michigan Notable Book Award.

"Bootstrapper" has a well-deserved praise on the book's rear dustjacket from Garrison Keillor, Wade Rouse and Jon Pineda.

It's great summer reading for those who enjoy entertaining escapism; it's ideal as well for local libraries.

Ray Walsh, owner of East Lansing's Curious Book Shop, 

has reviewed Michigan books and crime novels regularly since 1987.

Find this and other books by great Michigan authors

at the Curious Book Shop, an independent 

book shop in East Lansing, founded in 1969.

Curious Book Shop

307 East Grand River Avenue

East Lansing, Michigan

517.332.0112

This review was published by the Lansing State Journal on June 23, 2013.

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Ray's Reviews: Rick Murcer and Jenny Milchman

Jenny Milchman and Rick Murcer will be discussing 

"Writing and Publishing a Book Today: A Conversation 

Between a Self-Published and Traditionally Published Author" 

on Saturday at 7:00 PM at Schuler Books & Music, Meridian Mall, Okemos.

     Two highly successful authors will be discussing current trends in the field of contemporary writing. They will be focusing on various aspects of publishing your own book or getting it released by a traditional publisher.

     Holt resident Rick Murcer, who's made the New York Times and USA Today best seller lists, has self-published his books, selling over 100,000 copies.

     His popular series showcases Lansing Homicide police detective Manny Williams and his partner Sophie Lee. In the first book, "Caribbean Moon", (Kindle $2.99, Ridan Press, $12.99) Williams faces a devious, vengeful serial killer who turns a fun trip into a blood-splattered spree of terror.

     "Deceitful Moon" (Kindle $2.99, Ridan Press $12.99) continues in the same pattern; this time the stressed cops are looking for two serial killers as the body count dramatically rises.

     Murcer is the pseudonym for Rick Murgittroyd, an M.S.U. grad who's also been quite successful with other novels in the series. They're not great literature, but they are highly entertaining, with short chapters, intriguing plot twists and lots of action.

     "Cover of Snow" by Jenny Milchman (Ballantine, $26) is an impressive debut novel that introduces Nora Hamilton, a restorer of old homes in a small New York village.

     Her husband, a police officer, commits suicide; Hamilton discovers many dark, disturbing secrets in her quest for the truth.

     Milchman's carefully crafted, exceptional debut novel is compelling and fast-paced; she's definitely one of contemporary crime fiction's hot rising stars.

Ray Walsh, owner of East Lansing's Curious Book Shop, 

has reviewed crime novels and noir thrillers regularly since 1987.

Find books by great local authors (and more!)

at the Curious Book Shop, an independent 

book shop in East Lansing, founded in 1969.

Curious Book Shop

307 East Grand River Avenue

East Lansing, Michigan

517.332.0112

This review is scheduled for publication with the 

Lansing State Journal during the week of March 4, 2013.

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Book Review: "From Italy to America with Love" by Mina Greco Hall and John R. Hall

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Mina Greco Hall and John R. Hall, Ph.D. will be signing books on Friday Sept. 14 at 6 p.m. at Barnes & Noble Booksellers, 5132 W. Saginaw (Lansing Mall), Lansing.

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"From Italy to America with Love" by local authors Mina Greco Hall and John R. Hall Ph.D. (Xlibris, $19.99) is an intriguing self-published autobiography.

 

The attractively designed book focuses on the life and unusual experiences of a highly talented, award-winning artist who has faced a variety of challenging situations.

 

Mina grew up in war-torn Italy during World War II, with her parents and siblings surviving bombings and a naval torpedo attack at Taranto.

 

She suffered through devastation and death, disasters and rationing; the family moved to to another smaller town for safety.

 

As a budding artist, Mina had numerous interesting learning experiences; she also had a strange, unsettling, exasperating relationship with a boyfriend named Fabio, which lasted for decades.

 

Mina discloses some spooky situations that took place in a local cemetery, enough to make almost anyone wonder about the afterlife.

 

Soon, she moved to Milan, expanding her artistic endeavors. Her parents shortly followed, getting into the flower business.

 

Mina and Fabio parted ways, but soon Fabio got married. His later separation and persistence caused Mina more emotional duress.

 

Eventually Mina joined other family members in relocating to America in 1962; initially, she notes "Lansing seemed to be a village compared to the metropolis they had left."

 

In addition to learning a new language, (complete with assorted odd idioms) she also had to get used to the area's geographical layout and different weather.

 

She became involved with the local art scene, joining the Lansing Art Guild and the Lansing Art Gallery. She details the unusual way that she met her husband, who was then a student at Michigan State University.

 

The rest of the book explores her marriage, her love of America and her appreciation of her Italian heritage. She relates a wide assortment of artistic experiences, adding many touches of humor.

 

Mina Greco Hall has exhibited her artwork in several Italian cities as well as the Louvre in Paris. She paints abstracts as well as realistic styles and teaches in her Lansing studio.

 

In 2011, her painting Enigma won first prize in the People's Choice competition sponsored by the Lansing Art Gallery.

 

 

Ray Walsh, owner of East Lansing's Curious Book Shop, 

has reviewed Michigan books and crime novels regularly since 1987.

This review was originally published by 

the Lansing State Journal on Sunday, Sept. 9, 2012.

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Book Review: Die a Stranger by Steve Hamilton

        "Die a Stranger" by multiple Edgar award-winning author Steve Hamilton (Minotaur, $25.99) is the ninth in his best selling series starring Alex McKnight.

        Set in Michigan's Upper Peninsula, the ex-cop and sometimes private investigator gets in more trouble when he investigates the disappearance of Vinnie LeBlanc, his best friend.

        Vinnie, a neighbor who's helped in other cases, is an Ojibwa Indian tribal member who lives away from the local reservation.

        He's a longtime blackjack dealer at the Bay Mills Casino whose mother has just died.  After the funeral, Vinnie disappears; Alex knows his friend's habits and is understandably worried.

        Five bodies are discovered at a small deserted airstrip not far from the village of Paradise, where Alex and Vinnie live.

        In a drug deal gone very bad, suddenly there's lots of interest by a variety of authorities.  Vinnie's cousin Buck is also missing and Alex feels that both men may have been somehow involved.

        Lou, Vinnie's long-estranged father, who was recently released from prison, has returned, but is unwelcome at the reservation.   He joins Alex in an uneasy partnership to track down Vinnie and Buck.

        The case gets considerably more complicated; they drive around the Upper Peninsula and other parts of the state seeking information and answers.

        Their discoveries lead to more challenges and a rising body count. There's an intriguing assortment of criminals involved.  Hamilton does an excellent job creating strong, believable characters that are frequently put in violent, deadly situations.

        Deftly structuring his novel, the author slowly increases the tension while providing useful background information and offering societal insights into life on the reservation.

        Hamilton's carefully crafted 2011 book starring Alex McKnight, "Misery Bay", was released earlier this month in paperback.

        "Die a Stranger" is scheduled for release on Tuesday.  While it's enjoyable as a dark, stand-alone novel, this is really an excellent series for serious die-hard mystery lovers.

        Hamilton, a graduate of University of Michigan, won an Edgar Award for Best First Novel in 1998 for "A Cold Day in Paradise" (the first book in the series).  He won his second Edgar for 2010's "The Lock Artist".

Steve Hamilton will be discussing his writings 

and signing books on Saturday at 7:00 PM at 

Schuler Books and Music, Meridian Mall, Okemos.

       
        Ray Walsh, owner of East Lansing's Curious Book Shop, 

has reviewed crime novels and Michigan books regularly since 1987.

 

This review was originally published by the 

Lansing State Journal on Sunday, June 30, 2012.

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Book Review: Starting and Closing by John Smoltz and Calico Joe by John Grisham

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John Smoltz will be signing copies of "Starting and Closing" on Saturday from 12:00 p.m. - 2:00 p.m. at Schuler Books and Music, 2820 Towne Center Blvd. Eastwood Towne Center, Lansing. This is a limited, ticketed event, with tickets available free, but only with a purchase of the book. Reservations may be made by phone at (517) 316-7495. Smoltz will not be signing memorabilia.____________________________________________________________

The baseball season is now in full swing - maybe it's time to pick up the latest books on the subject - in fact and fiction.

"Starting and Closing" by Lansing Waverly High School grad John Smoltz (William Morrow, $26.99) is an interesting biography of the former All Star Atlanta braves pitcher.

Subtitled "Perseverance, Faith and One More year", the biography of the Cy Young Award winner is co-written with best-selling sports author Don Yaeger.

It covers the All Star pitcher's long career in a non-linear fashion, including his signing by the Detroit Tigers after he was chosen in the 22nd round of the 1985 free-agent draft.

It relates his true emotions when he was traded to the Atlanta Braves in 1987 for Doyle Alexander and details his quick rise to playing major league baseball.

The biography deals with a wide variety of subjects, including the importance of his Christian faith and how it helped him survive the pressures of pitching in the major leagues. Golf also plays an important role, allowing him to relax off field and release stress.

The best part of the book is the 16-page section of mostly color photographs, which showcase Smoltz's early Lansing baseball career, assorted family members and later noteworthy achievements.

Unfortunately, Smoltz doesn't really go into much detail about his baseball experiences in Lansing, other than just providing basic facts.

He does detail his later painful arm problems and pitching difficulties, when he switched from starting to relieving and back again.

This isn't really a tell-all book about baseball. It relays minimal intriguing inside information, but explores attitudinal challenges that he faced in his many seasons as an exceptional baseball player.

Smoltz finished his career with the Boston Red Sox and the St. Louis Cardinals. He's currently a sportscaster for the Atlanta braves and is chairman of King's Ridge Christian School in Atlanta.

"Calico Joe" by best-selling author John Grisham (Doubleday, $24.95) is considerably more enjoyable, but it's not the usual type of legal thriller that Grisham's made famous.

It's a fictional account of the meteoric rise and short memorable career of "Calico Joe" Castle, who played for the Chicago Cubs in 1973.

The bittersweet tale is told from the viewpoint of the son of a New York Mets pitcher. While parts of the novel are predictable, it's still great fun. Grisham's overall enthusiasm for the sport shines through; the conclusion is both memorable and touching.
Ray Walsh, owner of East Lansing's Curious Book Shop,
is a diehard Detroit Tigers fan and has reviewed books regularly since 1987.
This review was originally published by the
Lansing State Journal on Sunday, May 27, 2012.

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SPOOKY STUFF IS AFOOT IN THE U.P. (Book Review: A Cold Winter's Deathe by Mark Wolfgang)

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Mark Wolfgang will be signing books on Saturday from 2-4 PM at
Bestsellers Books and Coffee, 360 S. Jefferson St. Mason.
__________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Expect the unexpected in the latest book by Mason author Mark Wolfgang.

"A Cold Winter's Deathe" (Sudden Deathe Press, $12.95) is a slim, attractively designed, self-published paperback that's the second in his unusual "Yoopernatural Mystery" series.

The intriguing sequal to "Bedderhoff Dead" is strangely fascinating, as it features a variety of oddball characters placed in bizarre situations.

Set in Michigan's Upper Peninsula, Wolfgang's novels are completely different from other more familiar writers who use the same locale, such as Robert Traver, Steve Hamilton or Joseph Heywood.

The action takes place in the middle of winter in the fictional village of Deathe. The main character, Ron Blank, an electrician at the local junior college, thinks he's seeing things when he spots a small "invisible man" stealing drinks at the local bar.

It gets even stranger when Blank gets into a major confrontation in the bar with Carl Rowley, the hulking town bully.

Michigan State Police Trooper Alice Louise Dubose, who's trapped in the area due to a blinding snowstorm, is initially of little help. The "invisible man" turns out to be a visiting vampire hunter; soon Blank accompanies him to a local cemetery in search of answers.

Blank, who's restoring a derelict huge old mansion, the Cavendish Manor, has problems of his own. He's staying at a rooming house in town, where he encounters Julianna, a mysterious beautiful woman who's new to the area.

Wolfgang's tale gets more complicated as a related death occurs; Dubose discovers more unnerving information and other odd paranormal events take place.

The vampire hunter has hidden motives and unusual weapons; there's lots of dangerous snowmobile action. Dubose joins the town's sheriff in investigating the disappearance of a corpse; she has a battle with a giant, deadly "Masticator".

The reader is likely to get a hint of the scope of the uniqueness of this book by catching the long disclaimer on the back of the title page that notes: "...No resemblance to any real person, living , dead, undead, incorporeal, spiritual, metaphysical, unhinged, hinged or otherwise familiar to the reader is purely unintentional. They might, however be conglomerations of people and traits..."

At least two more books in this series are planned; more information is available at the author's website: http://www.yoopernaturalmysteries.com/

Ray Walsh, owner of East Lansing's Curious Book Shop,

has reviewed crime novels and Michigan books regularly since 1987.

This review was originally published by the Lansing State Journal

on Sunday, May 6, 2012.

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Book Review: Karen Stilson Armour's Traveling Solo, Faith not Fear

Karen Stilson Armour will be discussing her writings and signing books on Sat. March 31 from 9:30 AM to 2 PM at First Church of Christ, 585 E. North St., Owosso.

Karen Stilson Armour loves traveling around the world.

But she’s not your average tourist, going to museums and fancy urban shopping areas – she likes more obscure places, in Africa, Central America and the South Pacific.

You’re not likely to find her with groups of other tourists either; the Haslett resident likes to travel alone, which provides a wide variety of interesting experiences.

“Traveling Solo: Faith not Fear” (Xulon Press, $14.99 Kindle $7.49) is a well-produced, slim, self-published paperback that’s full of many travel anecdotes and numerous intriguing photographs.

Subtitled “Fearless Faith by Trusting God”, Armour intertwines her religious viewpoints in a unique book that also explores conquering fear utilizing spiritual insights.

It’s an unusual mixture: Armour noted that there were many current books on traveling solo and lots of books on building relationships with God, but none that combined the best aspects of both areas.

Armour’s deftly relates her vivid travel recollections of her solo adventures, offering a memorable mixture of humorous and amazing personal experiences.

She methodically lists 10 reasons why traveling solo is advantageous, including unexpected discoveries, more free time, greater casual conversational and personal encounters and additional time for people watching.
Additional expense is the major disadvantage; costs can be significantly higher without accompaniment.

Armour covers an assortment of other travel aspects, including destination choice, health concerns, attire, safety, traveling light and the challenges of pre-packaged tours.

The author includes a wide variety of relevant travel quotes from famous people such as Mark Twain, Margaret Mead and Khalil Gibran; related biblical verse quotes are interspersed through parts of the text.

The remarkable photographs are quite striking, with great images that the average tourist is not going to be able to capture. Photos include snake charmers in Morocco, the camel market in Egypt and interesting Tanzanians, as well as lions, giraffes, zebras and a rhino.

Armour stresses the importance of her beliefs that trusting God is the way to conquering fear; she provides a brief section of questions and topics for discussion.

More information can be found at her website, www.karenstilsonarmour.com

Ray Walsh, owner of East Lansing’s Curious Book Shop, 

has reviewed Michigan books and crime novels regularly since 1987.

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MOVING TRIBUTE TO MISSING AIRMEN

Blaine Pardoe will be signing books on

Tuesday at 7 p.m. at University of Michigan’s

Hatcher Graduate Library, Room 100,

913 S. University, Ann Arbor.

Tom Weschler and Gary Graff will be signing books

on Thursday at 7 p.m. at Schuler Books and Music,

Eastwood Towne Center, Lansing.

Two recent books will make ideal gifts for the holiday season for historians, although there’s likely to be a wide variance in the readership. One is great for military historians interested in World War I and II while the other is aimed at die-hard rock and roll fans.

“Lost Eagles” by Blaine Pardoe (University of Michigan Press, $32.50) is subtitled “One Man’s Mission to Find Missing Airmen in Two World Wars.”

It focuses on Frederick Zinn, a virtually unknown native of Galesburg MI. He has played a vital role in tracking down information used in determining the final fate of airmen missing in action.

Pardoe covers Zinn’s lengthy career during World War I, when he was initially a member of the French Foreign Legion. He became the first American aviation combat photographer, but devoted most of his efforts to locating missing airmen.

Zinn’s unusual spying duties during World War II are also carefully examined, when he worked for the top secret Office of Special Services (OSS).

Sections offering insights into the lives and disappearance of the missing flyers follow chapters of Zinn’s mesmerizing biography.

The well-researched volume includes photos, footnotes, a bibliography and a brief section on the fate of the missing airmen. Many methods Zinn originated are still in use today, This excellent, fitting memorial provides a moving tribute and well-deserved recognition. to an overlooked heroic figure.

“Travelin’ Man – On the Road and Behind the Scenes with Bob Seger”
by Tom Weschler and Gary Graff (Wayne State University Press, $18.95) is not a biography of Bob Seger and his assorted bands.

Instead it showcases over 150 Weschler photographs of Seger’s early career, beginning in 1969 through the late 1970’s and beyond.

There are many sharp images of a smiling, young Seger in assorted recording studios and on the road, including visits to MSU, U of M and the 1970 Goose Lake International Music Festival.

Numerous photos have long detailed captions, providing insights into Seger, his creativity and many different band members.

John Mellencamp offers a brief foreword, with Kid Rock supplying an afterword; this distinctive oversized paperback is a real treat for former hippies and good old-time rock and roll fans.

(Originally published by the Lansing State Journal on Sunday, December 5, 2010.)

Ray Walsh, owner of East Lansing’s Curious Book Shop, has reviewed Michigan books and crime novels regularly since 1987.

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