A Childhood Lesson That Lasted a Lifetime should be on the Best Seller list. It is timely, bold, honest, and beautifully written. The message is powerful and is presented in a most thoughtful manner. For people like me who despise racism in all its forms, this book is a must read. Many thanks for making this work available. To the extent that many of the episodes are autobiographical, you have lived a most interesting life.
I’m enjoying your novels! Have finished three of them. Now starting on Number 4. Keep ’em coming. Terrific characters and the storylines are all different.
The diversity of your writing is most impressive and your style varies appropriately in each genre. This is a rare talent. The sheer volume of your work available on Amazon gives readers many options. I especially appreciate your novels and short story collections and have recommended some of these to friends. Thank you for your inspirational insight into so many human experiences and challenging situations.
I really like your novels and short stories. I am especially impressed with the wide variety of characters you introduce, variations in storylines, and complexity of plots that you resolve in a most entertaining manner. In some of your stories, there is a ‘happily ever after’ conclusion but in most that is rarely the case. This is much appreciated by readers like me who prefer digesting the realities of life’s ups and downs. I notice on Amazon there is a huge backlog of your writing I have yet to see. I’m looking forward to tackling some of your earlier work very soon.
I love your stories and pics. They bring back fond memories. I lived in Union Pier as a teenager in the mid sixties about two blocks from Lake Michigan. Jesse Owens’ cottage was close by and sometimes on summer weekends there would be many cars parked outside his house when he had a party and the music would go on until late at night. Many years before that Carl Sandburg had a place in Bethany Beach where he raised goats and sold goat milk and was a friend of my aunt. I vaguely remember a frail grey haired old man giving me a Dr Pepper to drink while I was petting the goats.
I was totally blown away by “A Canadian in Michigan”. What a complex moving story. So many of life’s trials are brought to center stage in this novel. The characters are so deeply human with multiple positive traits and faults. You never quite know if the final outcome will be positive or tragic…until the very end when it is all brought together. Think I’ll go back and read some of your short stories. If they are anything close to this, they are well worth the read.
Good for you, Joe. I can’t imagine writing a novel. Very impressive. I am so glad you continue to write. I have enjoyed your books so much and look forward to more. Keep writing!
Absolutely loved “The Trio With Four Members”. Great characters, all unique but they come together beautifully at the end. Also like the way their compassion for those less fortunate emerges. Some terrific lessons here.
You are a genuinely gifted writer. Your words flow so well, your characters are complicated yet lovable, your storyline keeps the reader tuned in, your descriptions of local geography are accurate and timely, your message is profound. Love your books.
I really enjoyed “Michigan As It Once Was”. As a longtime resident of Michigan, I am quite impressed with the knowledge of the state displayed in these stories. Fictional and real characters are nicely interspersed with historical facts—the essence of in depth historical fiction. The work done in this collection reminds me of James Michener and other accomplished writers. Super!
I have had the opportunity to read several of your books. Your most recent about Michigan is my favorite. Towns like Three Oaks, Hancock, Charlevoix, and yes, even Detroit really come to life in your descriptions. I hope this latest collection of stories has a sequel in the works.
You know your Michigan very well. The short stories set in the state remind me of my past residence there. I especially recommend to others what is written about family life, the interaction between the powerful and those less so, and the mix of humor and serious analysis describing seemingly ordinary people.
This is definitely a talented writer in many different genres: historical fiction, sci fi (especially time travel), memoir, poetry. And oh yes, he was originally a professional economist with many publications in that field! A delightful reading experience that never disappoints.
What a marvelous collection of books penned by this author. I highly recommend several of them but especially “My Best Stories”, “Small Town Michigan Tales”, and “Voyages Across Time”.
The first time travel collection was superb. The second is even better. Trips occur to different periods where the events described are historically accurate. Those who arrive either attempt to change what has happened (sometimes successfully, other times not) or struggle to get back to the time of their initial departure, again not always successfully. The processes are often complex and always described in a most interesting manner. Cleverly conceived, well written, and inspirational in the lessons taught. An important contribution to the sci fi genre.
13 Time Travel Templates is a unique and delightful adventure. Each story is spellbinding in its own right. Characters are a mix of everyday people and gifted intellects, plots are complex, the settings are diverse both geographically and period wise, the journeys themselves indeed take you away to another time. The author experiments with a number of new delivery techniques. The result is a fresh approach to a genre already flooded with repetitive themes. I highly recommend this collection of inspiring tales.
Tried reading just one or two of the “Time Travel Templates”. Could not stop until I read all “Thirteen”. They are all independent of each other and completely different, especially in the vehicle that takes the traveler to a destination. Each story is better than the previous one. The final story is indeed the “Ultimate Temporal Voyage”!! WOW!!
“Familiar Footpaths” is a wonderful collection of short stories. I’ve read some of this author’s previous work. He is a master storyteller. The ones in this book are some of his best.
I never cease to be amazed at the diverse talents of this accomplished writer. His stories capture many different aspects of life experiences. His poetry touches the heart and exposes corruption of malevolent practices. His work is entertaining, eye opening, and highly readable. Keep writing, JP!
I like the idea of a “Best of……” collection. It could draw many readers who have only seen one of your books of short stories. It would also be a great gift!
You have written so many interesting stories and poems. Have you ever thought of publishing a collection of the ones you consider your “best” or your “favorites”? A Best of Pluta book title does have a ring to it.
Pluta is a passionate writer whose characters are sometimes wise but always very human. He is clever in his choice of words and insightful in his command of difficult situations. All of his stories expose different features of the life experience. Very readable and hard to put down.
“Whatever Happened to Our Dreams?” sure did hit home for me. The stories rekindled many memories of days past. They are thoughtful and beautifully written. Fictional characters tie in nicely with specific events in history.
Keep writing, Joseph Pluta! This book (“Whatever Happened to Our Dreams?”) and your earlier ones set in Michigan are masterpieces. I am a big fan! Wish I could meet some of your characters. They really do come alive in your plots.
My favorite stories in the “Whatever Happened…?” collection deal with the bumbling people who now run universities and the horrible way faculty are now treated. I also liked reading about Vietnam, the black janitor who won the hearts of kids at a rich white school, and the couple who got married at age 14. VERY well written and a most enjoyable read.
I have enjoyed your posts with suggested books to read, especially about the crisis in higher education. Keep them coming. An experienced writer is often a very good source for what is out there in the world of literature. Many thanks. And, of course, I have enjoyed a number of your recent books. My favorite is: 21 YESTERDAYS.
My #1 New Year’s resolution is to read more of the works of this author. “21 Yesterdays” was great as was “The Best 6 Years of Any Life”. Now I’m going to get into “Small Town Michigan Tales” followed by “2 Peninsulas”. Maybe some day, I’ll even travel to Michigan, a place I’ve never been but feel as though I have because of these books. Thank you, Joseph Pluta.
This author’s short stories are inspirational. His prose flows naturally, his characters are dynamic, and his plots combine humor with valuable lessons. You can tell he is an educator because he teaches even when he is writing for fun.
21 Yesterdays is my absolute favorite book this year. Its stories are warm and nicely written. This is what historical fiction is meant to be. All of the stories are well done but my favorites are: “Four Hours in a Hotel Lobby”, “Night Train”, and “His Name was Dad.” Touching, perceptive, and very real.
Very entertaining short stories. Characters that become real, towns that you wish you could visit, and lessons that inspire. I highly recommend this writer.
All four of Pluta’s recent books are worth reading. He combines humor, drama, and romance in a way that few authors can replicate. I can’t wait for his next collection of short stories.
When I read “Human Progress Amid Resistance to Change”, it blew me away. What a thorough discussion of some of the most important events in world history! Then I read Pluta’s fiction which is even better. This is a very gifted writer.
What I admire about this author is that he is anything but one-dimensional. All of his stories address different aspects of the midwestern experience. He handles different time periods with ease. He offers intricate details about the community in which each story is set. His characters are everyday people, yet somehow unique. His work is a pleasure to read. Bravo!!
The stories of ethnic clashes hit home to those of us who lived during those difficult times. Pluta does a great job in chronicling what we all went through.
AWESOME WEBSITE. Something to be proud of. I plan to purchase some of your books. I’m sure they are quite good. I also plan to send your URL to several friends. GREAT JOB!!
Dr. Joe Pluta is one of a kind. Not only did I truly enjoy reading him, he was definitely my favorite professor at St. Edward’s University. He writes about econ in a way no one else does. Thank you Dr. Pluta!
I’ve recently read Joseph Pluta’s “Small Town Michigan Tales. A Collection of Short Stories” and “Two Peninsulas, More Michigan Tales;” two delightful reads with genuine engaging characters that quickly become a part of your days. I look forward to reading more of Joe’s writings; it’s a genuine pleasure. Thomas George, ( J.D., LL.M., Ph.D. )
All of Pluta’s works are exceptional, from his fiction to his books on economics. He has an unprecedented ability to inform, challenge, and entertain his reader, and he makes you want to read more. I especially enjoy the way he includes precise detail within the context of the larger overall theme. An uncommon talent!
The beautifully written Best Six Years of Any Life is Joe(y)’s memoir that perfectly captures a time, a place, and is perhaps the clearest recounting I’ve read of a child’s world view from his earliest memories until his sixth year. Joe ‘s writing is a joy. The story is perfectly titled. As you’ve already guessed, I highly recommend!
I recommend the book “21 Yesterdays” to anyone, but especially to anyone who grew up in the 50’s & 60’s. The author’s short stories really bring this time period to life. It was alot of fun to read and brought back alot of my own memories.
I have had the pleasure of working with Joe Pluta for many years as publisher of several of his Economics textbooks. His writing style is professional as well as user friendly. He has the ability to convey challenging economic principles in a way that is interesting as well as applicable to students.
“21 Yesterdays” brings the 20th century to life. What a beautiful collection of some of this author’s finest work. This is historical fiction at its best!!
21 YESTERDAYS is a masterpiece. It captures life in small town America when important outside events disrupted the otherwise tranquil existence of locals. The stories are beautifully written, exciting, and entertaining. The author has a gift for merging historical reality with believable fictional characters who might have been there. Relive these moments when you read a highly talented author. I highly recommend this collection as much as any current bestseller.
Great stories that are gripping, humorous, and written in an understandable style. Begin with “Small Town Michigan Tales” and then read the others. All of his books are cozy companions on cold winter nights. I like! A Lot!
“Two Peninsulas” is an eye opener to all of us who have lived in Michigan for any length of time. The stories express well what our beautiful state is all about. This author knows his subject in fine detail.
This author’s short stories are a mixture of nostalgic, insightful, and irreverent. His characters are rich and believeable. His story lines are all different and they illuminate the human condition from several angles. They are an awesome read.
If I could recommend just one book to my friends, it would be “The Best Six Years of Any Life”. Thoughtful, funny, and an ending that will touch your heart.
A Childhood Lesson That Lasted a Lifetime should be on the Best Seller list. It is timely, bold, honest, and beautifully written. The message is powerful and is presented in a most thoughtful manner. For people like me who despise racism in all its forms, this book is a must read. Many thanks for making this work available. To the extent that many of the episodes are autobiographical, you have lived a most interesting life.
I’m enjoying your novels! Have finished three of them. Now starting on Number 4. Keep ’em coming. Terrific characters and the storylines are all different.
The diversity of your writing is most impressive and your style varies appropriately in each genre. This is a rare talent. The sheer volume of your work available on Amazon gives readers many options. I especially appreciate your novels and short story collections and have recommended some of these to friends. Thank you for your inspirational insight into so many human experiences and challenging situations.
I really like your novels and short stories. I am especially impressed with the wide variety of characters you introduce, variations in storylines, and complexity of plots that you resolve in a most entertaining manner. In some of your stories, there is a ‘happily ever after’ conclusion but in most that is rarely the case. This is much appreciated by readers like me who prefer digesting the realities of life’s ups and downs. I notice on Amazon there is a huge backlog of your writing I have yet to see. I’m looking forward to tackling some of your earlier work very soon.
I love your stories and pics. They bring back fond memories. I lived in Union Pier as a teenager in the mid sixties about two blocks from Lake Michigan. Jesse Owens’ cottage was close by and sometimes on summer weekends there would be many cars parked outside his house when he had a party and the music would go on until late at night. Many years before that Carl Sandburg had a place in Bethany Beach where he raised goats and sold goat milk and was a friend of my aunt. I vaguely remember a frail grey haired old man giving me a Dr Pepper to drink while I was petting the goats.
I was totally blown away by “A Canadian in Michigan”. What a complex moving story. So many of life’s trials are brought to center stage in this novel. The characters are so deeply human with multiple positive traits and faults. You never quite know if the final outcome will be positive or tragic…until the very end when it is all brought together. Think I’ll go back and read some of your short stories. If they are anything close to this, they are well worth the read.
Good for you, Joe. I can’t imagine writing a novel. Very impressive. I am so glad you continue to write. I have enjoyed your books so much and look forward to more. Keep writing!
Absolutely loved “The Trio With Four Members”. Great characters, all unique but they come together beautifully at the end. Also like the way their compassion for those less fortunate emerges. Some terrific lessons here.
You are a genuinely gifted writer. Your words flow so well, your characters are complicated yet lovable, your storyline keeps the reader tuned in, your descriptions of local geography are accurate and timely, your message is profound. Love your books.
I really enjoyed “Michigan As It Once Was”. As a longtime resident of Michigan, I am quite impressed with the knowledge of the state displayed in these stories. Fictional and real characters are nicely interspersed with historical facts—the essence of in depth historical fiction. The work done in this collection reminds me of James Michener and other accomplished writers. Super!
I have had the opportunity to read several of your books. Your most recent about Michigan is my favorite. Towns like Three Oaks, Hancock, Charlevoix, and yes, even Detroit really come to life in your descriptions. I hope this latest collection of stories has a sequel in the works.
You know your Michigan very well. The short stories set in the state remind me of my past residence there. I especially recommend to others what is written about family life, the interaction between the powerful and those less so, and the mix of humor and serious analysis describing seemingly ordinary people.
I thoroughly enjoy your stories and poems for many reasons, mostly for their insights into the human condition. They hit home on several levels.
This is definitely a talented writer in many different genres: historical fiction, sci fi (especially time travel), memoir, poetry. And oh yes, he was originally a professional economist with many publications in that field! A delightful reading experience that never disappoints.
What a marvelous collection of books penned by this author. I highly recommend several of them but especially “My Best Stories”, “Small Town Michigan Tales”, and “Voyages Across Time”.
Anyone who thinks time travel is not possible should read this author’s 5 books on the subject. All of his stories are mesmerizing and entertaining.
The first time travel collection was superb. The second is even better. Trips occur to different periods where the events described are historically accurate. Those who arrive either attempt to change what has happened (sometimes successfully, other times not) or struggle to get back to the time of their initial departure, again not always successfully. The processes are often complex and always described in a most interesting manner. Cleverly conceived, well written, and inspirational in the lessons taught. An important contribution to the sci fi genre.
13 Time Travel Templates is a unique and delightful adventure. Each story is spellbinding in its own right. Characters are a mix of everyday people and gifted intellects, plots are complex, the settings are diverse both geographically and period wise, the journeys themselves indeed take you away to another time. The author experiments with a number of new delivery techniques. The result is a fresh approach to a genre already flooded with repetitive themes. I highly recommend this collection of inspiring tales.
Tried reading just one or two of the “Time Travel Templates”. Could not stop until I read all “Thirteen”. They are all independent of each other and completely different, especially in the vehicle that takes the traveler to a destination. Each story is better than the previous one. The final story is indeed the “Ultimate Temporal Voyage”!! WOW!!
“Familiar Footpaths” is a wonderful collection of short stories. I’ve read some of this author’s previous work. He is a master storyteller. The ones in this book are some of his best.
I never cease to be amazed at the diverse talents of this accomplished writer. His stories capture many different aspects of life experiences. His poetry touches the heart and exposes corruption of malevolent practices. His work is entertaining, eye opening, and highly readable. Keep writing, JP!
“My Best Stories” will make a great Christmas gift for friends and family. Excellent writer!
I like the idea of a “Best of……” collection. It could draw many readers who have only seen one of your books of short stories. It would also be a great gift!
You have written so many interesting stories and poems. Have you ever thought of publishing a collection of the ones you consider your “best” or your “favorites”? A Best of Pluta book title does have a ring to it.
Pluta is a passionate writer whose characters are sometimes wise but always very human. He is clever in his choice of words and insightful in his command of difficult situations. All of his stories expose different features of the life experience. Very readable and hard to put down.
“Whatever Happened to Our Dreams?” sure did hit home for me. The stories rekindled many memories of days past. They are thoughtful and beautifully written. Fictional characters tie in nicely with specific events in history.
Keep writing, Joseph Pluta! This book (“Whatever Happened to Our Dreams?”) and your earlier ones set in Michigan are masterpieces. I am a big fan! Wish I could meet some of your characters. They really do come alive in your plots.
My favorite stories in the “Whatever Happened…?” collection deal with the bumbling people who now run universities and the horrible way faculty are now treated. I also liked reading about Vietnam, the black janitor who won the hearts of kids at a rich white school, and the couple who got married at age 14. VERY well written and a most enjoyable read.
I have enjoyed your posts with suggested books to read, especially about the crisis in higher education. Keep them coming. An experienced writer is often a very good source for what is out there in the world of literature. Many thanks. And, of course, I have enjoyed a number of your recent books. My favorite is: 21 YESTERDAYS.
My #1 New Year’s resolution is to read more of the works of this author. “21 Yesterdays” was great as was “The Best 6 Years of Any Life”. Now I’m going to get into “Small Town Michigan Tales” followed by “2 Peninsulas”. Maybe some day, I’ll even travel to Michigan, a place I’ve never been but feel as though I have because of these books. Thank you, Joseph Pluta.
This author’s short stories are inspirational. His prose flows naturally, his characters are dynamic, and his plots combine humor with valuable lessons. You can tell he is an educator because he teaches even when he is writing for fun.
21 Yesterdays is my absolute favorite book this year. Its stories are warm and nicely written. This is what historical fiction is meant to be. All of the stories are well done but my favorites are: “Four Hours in a Hotel Lobby”, “Night Train”, and “His Name was Dad.” Touching, perceptive, and very real.
Wow, have to say, Dr. Pluta’s credentials make me extremely nervous to take his class…
Very entertaining short stories. Characters that become real, towns that you wish you could visit, and lessons that inspire. I highly recommend this writer.
I have read five of this author’s books. I hope he writes five more. They are all……A+++++++++++. Yeah!
All four of Pluta’s recent books are worth reading. He combines humor, drama, and romance in a way that few authors can replicate. I can’t wait for his next collection of short stories.
When I read “Human Progress Amid Resistance to Change”, it blew me away. What a thorough discussion of some of the most important events in world history! Then I read Pluta’s fiction which is even better. This is a very gifted writer.
What I admire about this author is that he is anything but one-dimensional. All of his stories address different aspects of the midwestern experience. He handles different time periods with ease. He offers intricate details about the community in which each story is set. His characters are everyday people, yet somehow unique. His work is a pleasure to read. Bravo!!
The stories of ethnic clashes hit home to those of us who lived during those difficult times. Pluta does a great job in chronicling what we all went through.
AWESOME WEBSITE. Something to be proud of. I plan to purchase some of your books. I’m sure they are quite good. I also plan to send your URL to several friends. GREAT JOB!!
Dr. Joe Pluta is one of a kind. Not only did I truly enjoy reading him, he was definitely my favorite professor at St. Edward’s University. He writes about econ in a way no one else does. Thank you Dr. Pluta!
Looks like u. The years have treated u well. Look forward to reading your books.
I’ve recently read Joseph Pluta’s “Small Town Michigan Tales. A Collection of Short Stories” and “Two Peninsulas, More Michigan Tales;” two delightful reads with genuine engaging characters that quickly become a part of your days. I look forward to reading more of Joe’s writings; it’s a genuine pleasure. Thomas George, ( J.D., LL.M., Ph.D. )
All of Pluta’s works are exceptional, from his fiction to his books on economics. He has an unprecedented ability to inform, challenge, and entertain his reader, and he makes you want to read more. I especially enjoy the way he includes precise detail within the context of the larger overall theme. An uncommon talent!
The beautifully written Best Six Years of Any Life is Joe(y)’s memoir that perfectly captures a time, a place, and is perhaps the clearest recounting I’ve read of a child’s world view from his earliest memories until his sixth year. Joe ‘s writing is a joy. The story is perfectly titled. As you’ve already guessed, I highly recommend!
I recommend the book “21 Yesterdays” to anyone, but especially to anyone who grew up in the 50’s & 60’s. The author’s short stories really bring this time period to life. It was alot of fun to read and brought back alot of my own memories.
I have had the pleasure of working with Joe Pluta for many years as publisher of several of his Economics textbooks. His writing style is professional as well as user friendly. He has the ability to convey challenging economic principles in a way that is interesting as well as applicable to students.
I read everything I can about Buddy Holly and Ritchie Valens. “The Iowa Trip” in 21 Yesterdays is the best account of their tragic story yet.
“21 Yesterdays” brings the 20th century to life. What a beautiful collection of some of this author’s finest work. This is historical fiction at its best!!
21 YESTERDAYS is a masterpiece. It captures life in small town America when important outside events disrupted the otherwise tranquil existence of locals. The stories are beautifully written, exciting, and entertaining. The author has a gift for merging historical reality with believable fictional characters who might have been there. Relive these moments when you read a highly talented author. I highly recommend this collection as much as any current bestseller.
Great stories that are gripping, humorous, and written in an understandable style. Begin with “Small Town Michigan Tales” and then read the others. All of his books are cozy companions on cold winter nights. I like! A Lot!
“Two Peninsulas” is an eye opener to all of us who have lived in Michigan for any length of time. The stories express well what our beautiful state is all about. This author knows his subject in fine detail.
This author’s short stories are a mixture of nostalgic, insightful, and irreverent. His characters are rich and believeable. His story lines are all different and they illuminate the human condition from several angles. They are an awesome read.
If I could recommend just one book to my friends, it would be “The Best Six Years of Any Life”. Thoughtful, funny, and an ending that will touch your heart.