Hero stories in movies, books inspire local author

BY PHYLLIS SIDES
Journal Times

Friday, June 20, 2008 11:53 PM CDT

RACINE — Racine resident Michael Miller will sign copies of his first book, “The Sixth Lobe,” on Tuesday at the Racine Public Library.

The book is a mix of mystery, suspense, science fiction and crime that tells the story of Danny Wilson, a young child afflicted with a rare brain mutation.

News of his mutation leaks out, putting Danny and his family in danger. A local detective befriends the family to protect Danny from several sources seeking to control to him for financial gain.

Miller said his inspiration came from books and movies.

“I have always liked books and movies about heroes helping the defenseless who are facing seemingly insurmountable odds,” Miller said. “And I have always wanted to write about them. I find writing challenging and therapeutic. I am inspired by American heroes, as many people are, and the ‘The Sixth Lobe’ is a result of that inspiration.”

Miller worked on this book for three years, fitting writing in between his day jobs of consulting and teaching. He is planning a sequel to “The Sixth Lobe,” if the book generates enough interest, though he has other ideas in mind, too.

Miller was born in Cincinnati in 1951. He was 7 when his mother moved the family to Oshkosh after his father’s death.

He attended the University of Wisconsin and earned bachelor’s and master’s degrees in economics. After college he worked for the federal government in Washington, D.C. He and his family moved to Racine in 1980 when he took a job as an economist for the J.I. Case Co. He was with Case for 19 years.

Since then Miller has been working as a business consultant.

If You Go

WHAT: Local author Michael Miller will sign copies of his book “The Sixth Lobe.”

WHEN: 7 p.m., Tuesday.

WHERE: The Racine Public Library, 75 Seventh St.

FYI: Copies of the book will be available at a special price at the book signing.

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