Ample authors dot our region’s literary landscape, offering unique perspectives that resonate with readers of all ages. From stories of self-help to mysteries and more, the books below showcase the rich tapestry of our local author scene. 

Thank You, Huey by Mike Hazlip
Huey, unlike other airplanes, struggles with limitations and sad wartime memories, but through the support of his new friends—who remind him of his significance to the world—he uncovers his unique talents and a sense of belonging. 

Mike Hazlip was previously the photographer for a historic aviation nonprofit, which inspired Thank You, Huey. He has been sharing his expertise in photography and graphic design with middle and high school students since 2014.

From Darkness to Redemption by Albert Chavez
Explore the power of overcoming generational trauma, embracing support, and creating lasting change in this compelling book, which takes readers on a journey of personal growth through the depths of adversity to self-discovery, ultimately allowing people to embrace a brighter future.

Albert Chavez is a speaker, author, and mentor who empowers readers to reclaim their lives and unlock their full potential. As a father of three grown children and a proud grandfather, he understands the impact of personal growth on future generations.

 I Am Maggie by Debbi Preston 
I Am Maggie presents humorous tales narrated by Aussie dog Maggie as she discovers her role within her family. The author initially planned to conclude the book with Maggie's realization of contentment as a pet, but readers must delve in to unveil her unexpected journey.

Debbi Preston delivers engaging presentations about local trails to diverse audiences. She is also the author of three trail guidebooks, including 57 Dog-Friendly Trails in California’s Foothills and the Sierra Nevada.

Women of the Bible by Sherry Bliss Haase
With authenticity and humor, the author uses her perspective and personal experience as a woman, wife, and mother to encourage readers to walk with Christ through this Bible study. Enjoy scriptures about women of the Bible, our commonality with them, and draw lessons from their stories.  

Honeybunny the Unipuppy Visits San Diego by Renata and Suzie Bell
This interactive children's book is the perfect companion for families planning a trip to San Diego or simply looking for a fun and educational way for children to explore the world from home. 

Renata and Suzie Bell are a mother-daughter writing team who created a series featuring Maltese-Shih Tzu puppy Honeybunny, making each destination they've visited come to life and allowing kids to get excited and more prepared about exploring a new place. 

Home Fires by Claire Booth
A fireworks warehouse has exploded, and sheriff Hank Worth is one of the first on the scene. He navigates the complexities of the overworked morgue, where errors spark an investigation leading to a discovery that shakes his world off its axis.

Claire Booth is a former journalist who has reported on high-profile stories all over the country; after spending ample time covering crimes, she had enough of the real world and decided to write novels instead. 

Called Up: Ballplayers Remember Becoming Major Leaguers by Zak Ford 
Called Up features accounts from over 100 players on their journeys to Major League Baseball, highlighting the unwavering dedication required for success. Whether you’re a baseball fan or love uplifting human-interest stories, Called Up will inspire you. 

Zak Ford is a chapter leader with the Society for American Baseball Research and serves on the advisory committee of the Pacific Coast League Historical Society. Ford is currently working on a book about post-playing career transitions. 

When I Was You by Amber Garza 
Two women. One life. They both can’t have it. There are two Kelly Medinas living in Folsom, California. They meet and become fast friends, but when one goes missing the other may know why.

Amber Garza has been passionate about the written word since she was a child. Her hobbies include reading, singing, writing, and talking about her characters like they are real people. She lives with her husband in Folsom.

Just Flowers by Erin Dealey and Kate Cosgrove (Illustrator)
When budding botanist Izzy identifies the flowers growing around a grumpy neighbor's precious roses, he has Izzy take them away, and soon the whole town is bursting with joy. Can Izzy finally get the neighbor to accept the bloom of friendship? 

Erin Dealey is an award-winning children’s author who is thrilled to celebrate the diversity of flowers, kindness, and community, and loves the ranunculus wordplay that blossomed into Just Flowers.

Hart & Souls by Lisa Schmid
Stix Hart’s middle school brings anxiety-fueled ghostly encounters, where he meets three spirits who have been trapped and need his help to move on. Solving this paranormal predicament will take some serious sleuthing and a tremendous act of courage. 

Lisa Schmid is an author and co-host of the podcast Writers with Wrinkles. She loves writing ghostly adventures and visiting schools to discuss writing. Schmid lives with her husband, son, two dogs, and their sneaky hamster. 

BUY LOCAL

Love books as much as we do? Check out these great local bookstores!

Barnes & Noble
280 Palladio Parkway, Suite 913, Folsom, 916-984-4428; 1256 Galleria Boulevard, Roseville, 916-788-4320, barnesandnoble.com

The Book Cellar
96 Lincoln Boulevard, Lincoln, 916-645-9999, facebook.com/mybookcellar

The Bookery
326 Main Street, Placerville, 530-626-6454, thebookeryplacerville.com

The Bookhouse
3000 Green Valley Road, Suite 13, Cameron Park, 530-350-8903, facebook.com/thebookhousecp

Face in a Book
4359 Town Center Boulevard,
Suite 113, El Dorado Hills, 916-941-9401, getyourfaceinabook.com

Half Price Books
7975 Greenback Lane, Citrus Heights, 916-722-1101, hpb.com

Ruby’s Books
724 Sutter Street, Folsom, 916-790-8760, rubysfolsom.com

Winston Smith Books
933 Lincoln Way, Auburn, 530-823-5940, winstonsmithbooks.com

by MELISSA STRAND