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7 Spectacular Books Written by Local Authors
A good read is a summer requisite. Immerse yourself in a work of fiction, be inspired by a guidebook, or learn aloud with your child - it's easy and beneficial! Whether you crave inspiration, education, history or thrills, go now and investigate these 7 SPECTACULAR BOOKS WRITTEN BY LOCAL AUTHORS:

1. Century Walk: Art Imitating History
Look at and learn about the 35 beautiful pieces of Century Walk art that decorate and educate throughout Naperville in Jini Leeds Clare's coffee substantial table book. From sculptures to murals, reliefs to mosaics; from Burlington Square Park up north to the 95th Street Library down south: Naperville's history is here, in glorious detail. Look for it at Borders; 336 S. Route 59; 630-637-9700; www.borders.com.

2. Torn Apart
This brand-new July release from Naperville resident Shane Gericke is the third in his police vs. predator thriller series. The tension and fun go hand-in-hand as the reader is swept past local - and beloved - landmarks. Pick up a signed copy at Anderson's Bookshop: 123 W. Jefferson Ave.; 630-355-2665; www.andersonsbookshop.com.

3. The Boy and the Red Balloon
Naperville dentist Kaveh Adel has written, illustrated and self-published this tale of perseverance in honor of his son and of the message: Believe. The Make-A-Wish Foundation and Autism Speaks will receive 10% of the profits from this book's sales, so reserve your copy now at Anderson's Bookshop or at www.boyandredballoon.com.

4. In Arctic Waters
Schoolteacher Laura Crawford's work of fact-filled fiction for the elementary set follows native animals on a quest in their habitat. An additional section, "For Creative Minds," furthers the edification from the book and on to the website. All of Crawford's series educate the reader in fun formats. Find them at Anderson's Bookshop: 123 W. Jefferson Ave.; 630-355-2665; www.andersonsbookshop.com.

5. Haunted Naperville
For a slightly more ghastly look at historic Naperville, pick up Diane Ladley's book of ghost stories centered in our own town. When you're ready, see it all for yourself with Diane on the Historic Ghost Tours of Naperville. Purchase a book and a tour ticket at www.historic-ghost-tours-naperville.com.

6. The Brink of Destruction
This thriller will keep you on the edge of your seat, as you follow a Chicago FBI agent on an international manhunt after terrorists have executed an attack in her town and promise a prompt followup. Naperville author Mike Skurka packs his novel with great Chicago references. Available at Barnes & Noble; 47 E. Chicago Ave.; (630) 579-0200; www.barnesandnoble.com.

7. Into The Beautiful North
Award-winning author (and Naperville resident) Luis Urrea is currently touring for his most recent novel. Road-trip along with the characters via the iphone app, or request a postcard of one of the meaningful places, events or ideas by visiting Urrea's blog at www.luisurrea.com. Pick up Into The Beautiful North at Book Nook; 4738 Main St., Lisle; 630-968-0764.

-Lisa Gangi, Contributor