Scratch one item off the lifetime wish list: Last Thursday I went with Ellen to Schuler Books in Lansing for a book talk and signing by Elmore Leonard and his son Peter.

Peter and Elmore Leonard

It was an honor to meet the man who created Get Shorty, Out of Sight, Stick, 52 Pickup, Killshot, and so many more. He and Peter told stories about the craft and some of the characters and situations they’ve come across, and it was great to watch them convey information and answer potential questions just like they do in their novels: through action and dialogue.

And even in person, Mr. Leonard left out the parts people skip.

Thanks to everyone at Moorsbridge Elementary for making my time there fun, and for buying so many books!

I had a great time visiting with the students at Schoolcraft Upper Elementary during Detective Day!

My trip to South Haven North Shore Elementary School went fantastic, and all the kids were very polite and had great questions. Thanks to everyone!

I got to visit Paw Paw and see some of the teachers I had in elementary and middle school, and chat with their students. I hope they all had as much fun as I did! Click the images to see more.

This is what happens when you tell a room full of kids that anyone who pins you gets a free truck.

Thanks to everyone who stopped by my book signing at Waldenbooks inside Crossroads Mall.

My good friends Bryn Martin and Josh Fytczyk showed up for free cookies. (That’s right – no true vowels in that last name.)

I had a great time during my visit to Mason Middle School and Mason High School!

Some shots from my book signing at the Barnes & Noble Bookstore in Portage, MI. I used to work here!

In the first photo, future Crime Scene Investigators Parker and Peyton are getting ready to solve some Crime Files.