Local Author Book Signing Tour Continues Tuesday @ Blue Island Beer Co

Beverly's Bob Allen -- author of “The Backdoor to Heaven” -- has been busy lining up book signings locally and on the road connecting with old friends and making new acquaintances.

That his works were accepted for display on the shelves of Bookies Bookstore of Beverly, in his home community, led to “a very proud moment.”

Local support has arrived in ample supply on the South side for the attorney and Leo High School graduate, who has benefitted from bookstore and cafe invitations to sign books, as well as welcome support in a theme-based tie in with a local brewmaster, Blue Island Beer Co.

On Tuesday, February 25, Allen will sell and sign books at Blue Island Beer Company beginning at 5 p.m. The award-winning craft brewer located at 13357 Olde Western Avenue in Blue Island will also be playing host to its Bocce Ball League. Beer drinkers, book buyers and those curious about one of the fastest-growing recreation sports in the nation will fill the house.

“We attended a sportswriter’s book signing during January and the Bocce Ball league players were from every walk of life, which added to the fun,” said Allen. "The tasting room is so welcoming."

Blue Island Beer Company’s owners have stepped up as book signing sponsors with its aptly named “Massive Political Corruption” which cuts to the very heart of Allen’s most recent book, in which the protagonist in “The Backdoor to Heaven” is unsure of whom he can trust. While historically any reliance invested in an alderman comes with great trepidation, being incapable of believing the words of your own son is beyond heartbreak, making for a dramatic page turner.

“People get a kick out of Massive Political Corruption tie-in, especially those who have grown up in this culture,” said Allen. “On top of that, it’s great beer.”

Allen’s second novel has become community property on the bar.

“We will get lone patrons coming into our tasting room to try our latest brew, so having the books sitting on the bar has been a good fit,” said Blue Island Beer Company co-owner Alan Cromwell, along with co-owner and brew master Bryan Shimkos.

“We’ve done our best to host local authors over the years and with that comes interesting new customers and some shrewd conversations between strangers who quickly become acquaintances," added Cromwell.

The featured attraction of the Bocce Ball competition draws patrons to the back of the building where players of all levels surround alleys. Information about upcoming leagues is available, including news regarding a “Ladies Only” spring league.

The Back Door to Heaven by Bob Allen

Bookies Bookstore created a 10% discount promo code at www.bookiesbookstores.com for “The Back Door to Heaven” allowing visitors to the site to enter the promo code ALLEN10 (it is not case sensitive) for a one-time 10% discount on Allen’s book. Patrons will also get 10% off all other books they add to their order. This promo code is valid until Friday 2/28/25.