James Bastian is a graduate of Michigan State University where he majored in education, history, and psychology. Upon graduation, he taught high school, subsequently earned an MBA, and went on to have a 30-year business career. Writing became increasingly more appealing and upon retirement, transitioned to writing. His book ‘Wisconsin Logging Camp 1921’ was published in 2016, followed by ‘Willa’s Pursuit’, which will be available in September 2022.
A beautifully written historical fiction novel set primarily in the north woods of Wisconsin between 1920 and 1921. The narrative entwines the fictional story of an eight-year-old boy, Will, within that period’s rich historic context. The story meticulously incorporates the history of logging in Wisconsin, the flu pandemic, Prohibition, World War I, and post-war American culture, specific to that time and place. Will’s story reflects the challenges, hardships, and ethnic discrimination faced and overcome by American immigrants, then and now. These themes remain as relevant today as they were in 1920, and portray an archetypal immigrant experience, which is part of the proud, shared heritage of all Americans. The colorful language, rich history, characters, and Wild West atmosphere of the region will appeal to all readers.