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Authors Tom Richmond and Susan Bandy joined together as co-authors in creating Five Beneath Philly. Five beneath Philly was their first completed work together in 2017. Both authors love reading historical fiction and now creating books in this genre together.
Tom Richmond received his bachelors degree in writing and education from Illinois State University. He received his masters degree in history from University of Illinois. He is a veteran of the U. S. Air Force and served during the Vietnam era as a pilot. His love of writing developed throughout his life and he continued as a pilot in civilian life. He was a teacher and professor of history and shared the history and aviation background with his students as they learned.
Susan Bandy received her bachelors degree from University of Illinois in psychology with minors in English and education. She received her masters degree from there, as well , in psychology. She spent her life as an educator teaching students from kindergarten to masters level students at various times. Later, she was executive director of a non-profit organization serving students as they transitioned from their education to successful careers. She currently guides university students as they seek teacher’s licenses in Illinois.
Both Tom and Susan enjoy creating stories using the background of historical fiction as readers enjoy the books they create and learn more about history as they read.
The authors wrote four books together. Susan is finishing book five, third in the Justice Series, planned.
Reviewed by Mamta Madhavan for Readers' Favorite
"Try living out your dreams, no matter what the consequences. Too often in life, we regret the things we didn't do, more than the things we've done." Allen Williams had his own dreams for his life and it was not working at Cross Brothers' Meat Packing Plant. He had already made plans and dreamed of being a history teacher like Mr. Ryan Richards, his teacher in school, so that his life will change for the better. Things take a different turn when his father suffers a heart attack. Allen has to take on the responsibility of the family and his dreams for the future lie dormant. Though fate forces him to follow in his father's footsteps, Allen doesn’t lose his indomitable spirit and the will to live his dreams. Along with his friends living in South Philly, he goes to explore the tunnels under Philadelphia and experiences an adventure of a lifetime.
Five Beneath Philly by Tom Richmond and Susan Bandy is a story of struggles, challenges, adventure, friendship, and love where readers learn about Allen's zest to live and not give in despite the setback he faces in life. The adventure with his friends is exhilarating and the discovery of the tunnels that led one house to another gives another layer to the plot, making it exciting and entertaining. There is an element of mystery in the plot connected with the underground tunnels. The narration is detailed and descriptive, making the story tangible to readers. Allen's attitude to life is endearing and encouraging and though he had to remain in Philly, it is inspiring to observe him making his life happen instead of it dampening his spirit. The story will also make readers realize how important it is to accept reality and change the way we perceive our lives and surroundings to make life happy and satisfying.
