News that author Elaine Viets suffered a stroke has hit the writing community hard. Many of us know Elaine personally, and many more of us have been the beneficiaries of her kindness.
Here in St. Louis, Elaine has long been a celebrity. She gently probed and explored our city’s foibles in a colorful column for the daily newspaper. One piece was about our odd custom of “forking” or sticking hundreds of plastic forks in the ground, handle up. Yep, you gotta love a town that knows how to have fun. Only in St. Louis can you say, “Fork you!” and not have to duck.
I can’t imagine the fear that accompanies having a stroke. Especially for those of us who make our living by wits. And if you’ve ever chatted with Elaine, you know what a bright and agile mind she has. When she lived in Washington, DC, she protected herself on the streets by wearing a custom-made pair of vampire teeth. That plus her height—six feet—gave her a “don’t mess with me” air which is totally at odds with the real Elaine. She’s a sweetheart.
And a dynamo. Right now, she’s a whirling dervish confined to her bed.
So here’s a great Mother’s Day idea…if you know Elaine…or if you want a terrific book to read…or a gift for your Mom…or if you’ve ever had a friend or relative cut down by a stroke…buy a copy of her newest release Murder with Reservations. Email msbstchas@sbcglobal.net and Main Street Books will take care of your purchase. And then give yourself a BIG pat on the back!
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