Our neighbors to the east may have lost Brett Favre, but they have plenty of writing talent

written by Mary Ann Grossman (St. Paul Pioneer Press)

"Eternity's Missing Children" by R.S. (Ryan) Praefke (Intrigue Press, $14.95): Praefke grew up in Neenah, Wis., and attended the University of Minnesota, where he "fell prey to the wilder elements of college life." He lives in Sarasota, Fla., but sets his odd tale in New Orleans, where the devil and Jesus, who consider themselves brothers and are not adversaries, share their worries.

Satan likes to tease Jesus about liking fish and being a nondrinker. Together, they watch the interactions of characters such as Desiree, a single mom with a son; an alcoholic who compounds Desiree's struggles; and an aging bluesman who makes a bad deal to become a great guitar player.

This story is interesting and fast-paced until near the end, when the devil and Jesus indulge in philosophical discussions that go on too long. But the lively writing in the rest of the book makes up for this brief detour into theology.