Most importantly: Here’s my Bookshop.org list for Frank Bill, where you can pre-order BACK TO THE DIRT, and pick up all of Frank’s other books, too. BTTD drop 5/9!
I first met Frank Bill in his home town of Corydon Indiana, on September 10th, 2011. It was the book release party for his first book, CRIMES IN SOUTHERN INDIANA. It’s also where I first met Donald Ray Pollock, Matthew McBride, Scott Phillips, Jedidiah Ayres, Kyle Minor, and (in person) David James Keaton. It’s also where I first met Waffle House. It was a significant trip for me.
Since that time, I’ve done reviews for all of Frank’s books, and interviewed him several times. I have a long history with this author, and I really enjoy his writing. So, when I got wind of his new book releasing, I was so excited that I had a podcast to invite him on to!
What follows is a little over an hour of discussion about war, mental illness, drugs, and other things that can erode and destroy a person. You may think that, because Frank is a crime author, we dig into the dirty grittiness of life. Honestly it’s more about the devastating effect all of these things can have on people, families, communities, and a national identity. We talk about how it’s important to honor family and history, and to make an effort to understand people - especially people who come from different backgrounds. It was a great conversation that I hope you enjoy.
For anyone viewing the YouTube video: There was an issue with the video file on Frank’s side, so about halfway in to the recording, his feed goes to a still photo. The audio is fine, thankfully. We just lost some of the video. Apologies for making you look at my face more.
YouTube video:
Frank Bill - BACK TO THE DIRT