Frank Kelso grew up in Kansas City, Missouri, the origin of the Santa Fe Trail. Historic sites, monuments, and statues abound highlighting the journey west, including the Wagons West, Pioneer Women and the Indian Scout located on the bluffs overlooking the wide Missouri. Writing western themed books fit in with his upbringing. His parents considered storytelling a family tradition and the taller the tale, the better, when sharing around the supper table. A biomedical research scientist in his day job, Frank writes short stories and novels to keep the family traditions alive. He enjoys living on an island on the Alabama Gulf Coast at the Florida border. Can you say Flora-Bama Beach Bar? Welcome to Paradise Island: sunny days, sugar white sands, turquoise blue water, fishing, and smooth sailing. Come on down, Y’all.

Mr. Woods has been writing screenplays, television shows and books since attending the University of Southern California’s School of Cinematic Arts in the early 1990’s.

His first fiction novel, Return to Treasure Island, has received numerous awards and recognition including the prestigious Silver Medal for book of the year by the Independent Book Publishers Association (IBPA) and book of the year for Young Adult fiction from the San Diego Writers Association. The book was forwarded by LeVar Burton of Reading Rainbow and Star Trek fame, and was praised by Clive Cussler and Jack Butler. (http://treasureislandbook.com/)

His next book, Jesse James Secret, was a creative blend of the biographical, historical and fictional novel genres, and was the basis for Jesse James Hidden Treasure, a two hour special shown on the History Channel and Executive Produced and written by Mr. Woods. The program was a top rated show for the network. The book was nominated for an award by the San Diego Writers Association for Biography. (http://jessejamessecret.com/)

His next project is the first in a series of action/adventure books based on The Seekers (http://theseekers.com/) titled Lost Tomb of Alexander. They are based on John’s fascination and passion for Unexplained Archeology, will be a fully interactive and immersive experience combining books, games, web sites and music, taking advantage of the latest technologies within each category. The Lost Tomb of Alexander, The Seekers Book I is in pre-release now and available for purchase. (http://losttombofalexander.com/).

The Crusaders has been a work in progress for John for 45 years: the story of his growing up with his friends in the 1960’s. in Southern California. It is a heartfelt narrative of their adventures and bonding friendships during those unique and life-changing times. Referred to as the ‘American Graffiti’ of the ‘60’s, it is both humorous and poignant. (http://crusadersbook.com/)

John is now working on another series of books titled Southern Man, an action/adventure tale based on a Man and his former slave after he returns home to the south and experiences the effects of reconstruction. It is due out in the fall of 2015.

John’s author website is www.JohnOMelvenyWoods.com.