Books and E-Books

"A tender, heartfelt account of a childhood that might have been fraught with despair, but instead was taken up as an adventure. The author's positive and playful recollections are deeply personal, but many of them extend beyond the lives of two kids who had the unique opportunity to call the Old Bale Mill home. Hikes and chores, animal tales, testing one's courage, the loving care of grandparents, all these have broad appeal." Hilary Zunin

"...Truth is very often stranger than fiction ... Cultivating and examining memories can take a person (and a creative endeavor) to places they never dreamed of going ... Fact is, when we write of things personal, we cannot help but learn new things about ourselves. And, therein lies the beauty of this special book ... regardless of your background, experience, or age, you will find a unique 'sweetness' in this book that you will cherish for a long time to come." (Excerpts from the Foreword by Dane Stanley,The author's brother.)

(Contact me through this website if you would like a copy - Also available at Napa Public Library and St. Helena Public Library)

The Golden Road - French Wine or Moonshine, and The Golden Road Detour are hilarious books written by Dona Bakker and her long-time friend, Tami Riedeman. It was Dona's first attempt at fiction and, because the two friends lived in two different states, working together on this project brought them closer together. 

Much like the authors, the two characters in the book are two polar opposites, Grandy and Bernice. After finding themselves rooming together in a retirement home, they win a motor home on a game show and begin to travel to some unusual landmarks across the U.S. 

The first book has sold out, but is now available as an e-book. (Contact me through this website to order The Golden Road Detour - not available digitally) 

Over 2000 students passed through the halls of St. Helena High School between 1940 and 1972. This book chronicles the rich history and deep roots of their small town. Over 75 former students share their fondest and funniest memories of SHHS, as well as their academic, personal, civic, and professional accomplishments. Unfortunately, this book has sold out, but may be available through the St. Helena Historical Society. 

(Out of Print) - available at Napa Public Library and St. Helena Public Library)

When asked by so many how she went about self-publishing her own works, Dona wrote this short book on the process. While technology is forever changing, she is still "old school." "If a live person answers the phone, they have a shot at my business." 

Teaching a classroom full of rowdy sixth graders is not Michael  Webster's dream job for his first assignment, but it's a start. When his  mother died, strange things begin to occur in his classroom. Everything  eventually spirals out of control and tests him to his core. Michael is  held together by his two best friends and the prayers of a group of  relentless church ladies. In an odd twist, America's great Christian  heritage is revealed to Michael for the first time, and he is compelled  to do something with what he has learned. His story is also mixed with  local politics and, of course, a bit of romance.