Local Author and Cal State East Bay Ethnic Studies Professor Brings Sonny Trueheart Mystery Series to Oakland Library: A Special Reading and Book Signing Event

Feb 52 min read

Oakland, CA – Bootstrap Publications is thrilled to announce a "Meet the Author" event with Dr. Nicholas Louis Baham III and his captivating noir mystery novel, The People’s Detective, the first installment in the Sonny Trueheart Mystery series. The event will take place on Saturday, February 22, 2025, at Oakland Public Library, located at 125 14th St, Oakland, CA 94612, from 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM PST.

Dr. Baham, a Professor of Ethnic Studies at California State University, East Bay, masterfully blends social justice, Oakland’s rich cultural history, and the grit of noir detective fiction in this compelling narrative. The People’s Detective takes readers into the life of Sonny Trueheart, a former Oakland Police Department detective turned whistleblower, who uncovers a dangerous conspiracy involving organized crime, police corruption, and the powerful elite, all while addressing critical social issues such as sex trafficking in the Bay Area.

Event Highlights:

A live reading from The People’s Detective by Dr. Baham
Engaging Q&A session with the author
Book signing opportunity
Networking with local authors, artists, and community advocates

Advanced Praise for The People’s Detective

“This novel moves like a freight train through a tunnel.” – Kwei Quartey, LA Times bestseller and award-winning author
“Superb…a masterful tale of a gritty urban reality that has all too often gone ignored.” – Damien Hunter, award-winning author of The Madrinega Missiles
“This book is not just a thrilling read, but a powerful testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the fight for justice in the face of overwhelming odds.” – Nolan Higdon, University of California, Santa Cruz

Dr. Baham’s work stands as a poignant testament to Oakland’s resilience and vibrancy, weaving martial arts, social activism, and a deep love for the city into the fabric of his storytelling. His nuanced approach brings to life the grit and humanity of Oakland’s underbelly, making this novel a cornerstone of contemporary Black detective fiction.

This free public event is a unique opportunity for readers, fans of noir detective fiction, and those passionate about social justice to engage with an influential voice in the literary community.