Francis (aka Firecracker) Jones' best friend has disappeared, and none of the adults are talking. Only the coolest ninth grade detective in the history of Crater Valley High School can solve the mystery. Follow 'F' as he overcomes rain, swamps, and horrifying health food dinners to crack his first greatest case.

The stories in Klim's new collection include tales of controlling women and ne'er-do-well men trying, well, to do well if they could; an upscale chef helping to prepare a condemned man's last meal; best friends who find themselves in a middle eastern battlefield; a rocket scientist on the drink who gets lucky; a heartbreaking and haunting tale of a neglected boy and what he learns from his runaway dog; and an abused girl who views a kaleidoscope of past lives. Told with the light, deft touch and well tuned dialogue that Klim's readers will be familiar with from his novels-a variety of characters and situations for every taste. -Thomas E. Kennedy, author of In the Company of Angels

Eric Hoffer-one of America's most important thinkers and the author of The True Believer-was at the height of his popularity in the late 1960s when he wrote a weekly news column that appeared in hundreds of papers across the country. Hoffer fearlessly delved into the issues of the day, seeking not only an understanding of but also a solution to contemporary problems. Sixty years later, many of these insights still hold true.

Klim's highly praised first novel is the exhilarating story of tabloid photojournalist Boot Means. He's discovered big trouble in Trenton, but it's his chance to erase his impoverished roots as an orphan and launch into fame. Set in the desperate urban landscape of Trenton, NJ, this mainstream social satire delves into the heady world of TV evangelism and the seamy underworld of cult organizations.

What is the value of one life? Forest ranger Thomas King is a severe dyslexic and perceived village idiot. Alone, he roams the Pine Barrens, hoping to save a failing town. Claire Wethers' children have been stolen by her ex. The former beauty queen privately drowns her fears in whiskey. Their lives appear as marginal as the bankrupt town, but when this unlikely pair merge paths, everything changes.

Firecracker Jones' best friend has disappeared, and only the coolest ninth grade detective in the history of Crater Valley High School can solve the mystery. Follow 'F' as he overcomes rain, swamps, and horrifying health food dinners to crack his first greatest case. Illustrations by the author. Written by award-winning novelist Christopher Klim.