Bad Ground

By: Dale W. Cramer

Narrated by: Pete Bradbury

Author of Sutter's Cross, a Booklist Top Pick, W. Dale Cramer evokes the ambiance of a small Southern town in this inspiring novel. Jeremy's mother has passed away, leaving him with an odd request. He is to find his Uncle Aiden, a hardrock miner, and stay with him, regardless of Aiden's wishes. Jeremy's faith in God gives him the courage to find the humanity behind this tough-as-steel man.©2004 Dale W. Cramer (P)2004 Recorded Books, LLC

Critic reviews

"Cramer has a delicious way with a pen, whether he's crafting a lush Southern backdrop or offering glimpses of [his character's] interior lives....With its notes of hope, humor and redemption, this delightful book exemplifies what good Christian fiction should aspire to." (Publishers Weekly)

Great narrator

Pete Bradbury gives this story a depth and dimension it would otherwise not have, making the scenes that could have been hoky - deep and sincere. Good story. GREAT narrator. A little to perfect an ending but overall good listen.

Good book

I liked the book but was not always impressed with the author. I would recommend it for kids and adults.

Emotions

Never have I enjoyed a book more than I did Bad Ground. The author manages to capture the innocence of youth mixed with the hard life of someone who has lost everything in the world that he knows and along the way has to deal with a dark and bitter relative. The narrative of the mines was a perfect backdrop for this story. It shows the hard work that is involved all the while being a perfect allusion to the inner workings of the character. I myself a coal miner by trade could relate to the character and it brought back many memories for me. The author has done something extraordinary with this work. It took me on a journey of emotions. Sometimes, I laughed out loud while other times I cried. All readers will enjoy this coming-of-age tale and the only negative thing I have to say about this book is that it ended! Highly recommended.

Bad Ground, Great Read

Thanks for the book. It was refreshing and entertaining at the same time. Dale Cramer has a great way of writing to put you right in the story. My next book will be by Dale Cramer.

Struggled to finish it. it really couldn't keep in

It really couldn't keep my interest. Not really a book for Mr that's all. Sorru

good story- but a lot of mouth noise.

The book is a nice uplifting tale, and while a bit contrived; I enjoyed the storyline. However, the mouth noises of the narrator were distracting.

Not just a book for guys!

Even though this book deals with crusty miners, this is not just a guy book. My husband and I both loved it! Seventeen year old Jeremy must grow up quick when he signs on with the miners and takes up residence with his uncle. This story has suspense, drama, humor and a touch of romance. We highly recommend it! (We gave the narrator 3 stars. He starts out making too many "noises" with his mouth. Over the course of the book, he gets better and could get 4 stars.)

One of the best fiction books I have enjoyed

It was not only entertaining but it also had a good message with it. It was easy to follow with good characters.

Excellent!

I would not normally have walked into a book such as this, with the characters, setting, and plot-line that this book has. But there you go, that's what a good writer does. He carries you into places where you would have never thought to go. This was a thoroughly enjoyable book, and the narration was very well done as well. I suppose a man would generally enjoy this book more than a woman, but women, don't be mislead. This is a must-read book. I stumbled upon W. Dale Cramer as an author, but I will not make that mistake again. I look forward to listening to his next book. Excellent!

Wonderful story. Amazing author. Superb narration.

I love this book. I have read it many times and this narrator tells it very well. Full of true life struggle, hope, and wisdom. I would highly recommend this book for all. Thank you!