  Brian Kern/Flyer photo (click on to enlarge) Children’s author Bernie Albertson spends some time with kindergartners at Saint Susanna’s Parish in Plainfield. |
By Brian Kern
Staff Intern
PLAINFIELD -- Bernie Albertson may have spent the last 11 years in retirement. But the children's' author and employee of St. Susanna Parish here in Plainfield has never been busier.
Albertson spends his days aiding in the upkeep of St. Susanna's school and church along with his wife, Donna, and daughter Beth Reed.
But by night he's an author currently anticipating the release of his fifth children's' book, Angry Angel.
The fictional story relates the experiences of 12-year-old girl who suffers from blindness and a frustration with her home life.
Albertson, who was reluctant to give up too much detail explained that the girl runs away from home only to find herself returning in the end. The story is set in his home town of Rockville.
"I've been writing for probably close to 50 years," he said.
Much of Albertson's Christian-themed work is derived from personal experience and a tough upbringing.
"I lived in the back of a car and bathed in filling station restrooms," he said. "That's about the first time I picked up a pencil and wrote how I felt."
Albertson recently released Eyes of Children, a book that he says represents "challenged children who must overcome adversity and learn to be heroes and heroines in their own life."
Albertson's So, you think there is no Santa Claus series is perhaps the most renowned of his collection. The works examine the Christmas holiday from a more religious perspective, Albertson said.
He also credited the parish and school with much of his inspiration.
"Children are a constant surprise and it helps keep my attitude positive," he said. "They have accepted us as a part of their family. I've got 200 grandkids here"
Albertson's books are available at the Plainfield Public Library. Purchasing information is available at www.thebookden.com.