New novel of historical fiction recalls era of Charlie Birger

SOUTHERN ILLINOIS - A new novel of historical fiction uses southern Illinois' most notorious gangster, Charlie Birger, as its hook to local history.

Author Kevin Corley of Shelbyville has released his fourth novel based on Illinois history and the first not centered in Christian County.

"'13 Steps for Charlie Birger' is the most fact-based book I have written," Corley said in a news release. "I took all the events and names from other historians' research and wove them into the novel.

Corley said he writes historical fiction to inspire young people to learn history.

"Few young people will read an academic book," he said.

Corley said Taylor Pensoneau, the author of "Brothers Notorious: The Sheltons," is a good friend and a great source of information.

"Pensoneau's incredible research along with that of wonderful historians like Paul Angle, Gary DeNeal, and Jon Musgrave were instrumental in putting this story together.

"As a novelist I try to get into the heads of the historic characters and speculate about what they may have been thinking during these incredible events."

For information on how to buy the book, call Corley at (217) 343-7585 or email to charliebirger@yahoo.com.