Bedside table: Readers share recommendations

"The Last Ferryman," by Gregory D. Randle, is an elegant examination of a third-generation Wabash River ferryman. Buck Shyrock has spent his life on the river, transporting the farmers, families and merchants of this small border town, just as his father and his father's father did before him. His life changes dramatically in 1939 when the states of Illinois and Indiana build a bridge just upstream from Buck's landing. "The Last Ferryman" captures the essence of change as it unveils small-town sentimentalities and the intimate relationship of the river and the man. With exquisite rhythm and attention to detail, Greg Randle brings us back to that place and time.