Bob McPherrin bursts onto children's book scene with Stingray Cole series

Last month, I was asked to co-host a party at the Hilton Anatole's Gossip Bar.  The Anatole's General Manager, Bob McPherrin, was in attendance and we had a cocktail and chatted about this and that.

Imagine my surprise, when I got a press release a few days later announcing the release of McPherrin's new children's book. What!? My curiosity was piqued so I reached out to Bob to learn more.

Bob McPherrin is launching himself into the competitive children’s book scene with an exciting new series entitled Stingray Cole & the Elm Street Daredevils.  Published in Oklahoma City by Tate Publishing, the introductory book of the series, The Mysterious Tale of Culpepper Mansion, was released on Nov 8, 2011.

The series is based on the exploits of 12-year-old seventh-grader Stingray Cole and his diverse circle of friends, who find themselves embroiled in various exciting mysteries which they solve with a combination of ingenuity, teamwork and contagious good humor.  

McPherrin was gracious enough to send me an autographed copy for my 11-year old son to "review".  After reading the book over the Christmas holiday Jackson said, "It was GREAT," making a thumbs up sign.  "What was so great about it," I asked? "I liked how there were lots of different characters and they were all interesting."

McPherrin credits his early exposure to The Hardy Boys series as his primary influence, although he is quick to make a distinction.  “As much as I loved The Hardy Boys series, the Stingray Cole series is far more inclusive in its array of main characters, and includes kids of diverse ethnic backgrounds, ages, and religions, and even includes Stingray’s 75-year old grandfather.  These characters reflect today’s world much more accurately than those of the older series.”

So, in his 11-year old way, Jackson totally backs up what McPherrin is trying to accomplish.  Great work, Bob!

McPherrin goes on to explain his impetus for trying his hand at writing.  “After seeing too much objectionable entertainment directed at kids today, whether in movies, TV shows, video games, or popular music, I grew increasingly convinced that a mystery series that provided thrills and chills, but also presented characters that exemplified the kinds of qualities that parents strive to instill in their children, could become very popular.”

Order your copy today!