Author Josef Bastian Discusses The Nain Rouge:

Review From Detroit Moxie:

The book is aimed at young adults so it’s pretty short and easy to read (for an adult). The characters of Tom and Elly are very likable. Elly is a great role model for girls; she’s the smart one. In fact, she reminded me a bit of Hermione Granger from the Harry Potter books. Tom is described as a free spirit and confident. He gets into minor trouble from time to time.

I have to say what I loved most about the book is that it is set in Detroit. Tom and Elly live in Royal Oak and attend Royal Oak Middle School.

The story starts out with the kids at the DIA where they first encounter the Nain Rouge. Throughout the story they travel to Hart Plaza and down Jefferson Avenue, the Joe Louis Fist is mentioned as well as the Spirit of Detroit. The story ends at the Michigan State Fairgrounds.

Being able to visualize the city and follow the kids on their travels draws you in. These are places I see all the time, they are fresh in my memory and I felt like I was walking right behind Tom and Elly.

When I first started reading Nain Rouge I was thinking to myself that the ending would be obvious. But you know what? I was surprised. I shouldn’t have been, I should have figured it out but I was enjoying the ride so much I didn’t have time to ponder the end.

The story was intriguing and with all the vampire, werewolf, and magical books out right now this little, red, evil dwarf with his “high pitched hissing laughter” might just fit right in with today’s teenage sensibilities.

What I find most interesting about the book Nain Rouge is the opportunity it has to open up a dialogue between parents and kids. It’s a great discussion starter not just about places in Detroit but about what is happening right now in our community and what can be done to make it better.