My middle grade novel, A TOUGH NUT TO CRACK is now out. The story is set in rural Kentucky. I lived in Danville, Kentucky from the time I was 13 until I was 26, and worked on farms after school and in the summer. I still visit regularly, so the setting is of special significance to me. In a nutshell (pun intended), the plot revolves around the quest of the determined main character,13-year-old Cassie, to find out why her dad (a very nice man and loving father) and her grandfather (also a great guy and wonderful grandpa) can't be in the same room together without sparks flying. For more click on the "About Tom's Books" page.

In the works:

I've started a new novel, STORM MOUNTAIN. As you may be able to guess from the title it involves one of my passions, mountain climbing. The question that is driving it is: What if a cautious boy must chase his headstrong girl cousin up a mountain in order to retrieve his father's ashes? I'm not sure yet exactly where this premise is going to take me (except to higher altitudes), but I'm sure having fun figuring it out!

Also, I'm working on a nonfiction piece about kids who love to rock climb, and am having a blast with the interviewing and photo sessions. An added bonus: I'm getting in more climbing as part of the experience!

And I've just received word from my agent that my publisher wants me to write a sequel to ATTACK OF THE MUTANT UNDERWEAR. Whew! Lots to do. Better get back to work!

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