Dr. Janet Reid, a professor at Alma college and a champion hot air balloon pilot, is murdered when her balloon, The Bagpiper, explodes over Battle Creek, Michigan. Lou Searing and Jack Kelly investigate the murder involving a cast of suspects at Alma College and in the ballooning world. Revenge, competition, and suspense figure into the equation as Lou and Jack solve a complex set of circumstances in the novel titled “Murder in Thin Air.”

Buttonwood Press is the fulfillment of a vision, offering the entertaining and inspiring works of its founder, Richard L. Baldwin. The books published by Buttonwood Press are designed to educate through the use of the mystery genre or experiences of the spirit.

This publishing company endeavors to grow and serve others through the power of the written word.



Please view these glimpses into the world of Buttonwood Press. Thanks to Martha Rooker, Terry Such, and Kraig Westfall we have a couple of segments on the site to allow people the opportunity to come into Buttonwood Press and make themselves at home. Let me know how you like this new touch to the site.

Click on a thumbnail to view a video.

A resident of Haslett, Rich Baldwin has published more than 15 books, two children’s books, a set of religious vignettes and several skits, including The AARP Magazine Swim Suit Edition, under his own company – Buttonwood Press. He is also a public speaker, addressing groups on the topic of “How to Self Publish Your Own Book.” Prior to becoming a published author, he enjoyed a long and exciting career in special education, serving as a teacher, college professor and then 20 years at the Michigan Department of Education where he was a consultant, supervisor and State Director of Special Education from 1990-97. Baldwin was born in Kalamazoo, raised in Grand Haven and has graduate and post graduate degrees from Western Michigan University and a doctorate from Kansas University. Back to top


On the Road Again!!
I sure can relate to Willie Nelson's hit song, "On the Road Again." Now that spring is here Buttonwood Press is off to a new place every weekend. I have been to the Vermontville Maple Syrup festival (pancakes and sausage were delicious). Next was the Mason Spring Fling (and the wind almost did fling us over the county courthouse). Last weekend was the Mother's Day Craft Show at Uncle John's Cider Mill north of St. Johns. On the horizon is the Cornwell Turkey Farm Craft show north of Marshall to be followed by the Alma Scot Festival, and then the Curwood Festival in Owosso. Marketing director, Martha Rooker has me on the run. And, so far, book sales have been fantastic. And, furthermore, meeting my fans and lots of new people is a real treat!!

Murder at the Ingham County Fair is about to be Released.
This, the 10th mystery novel is being printed as I type this on May 12. The printing will be complete in time for the summer tourist season and of course a whole host of shows, talks, and festivals. You can order off the web site order form.

The 11th Book
The 10th is not off the press and already people are asking me about the next book. There are three possible titles and each is in a stage of being written. Locked in with Murder has been on the back burner for a couple of years and is in the lead to be the next mystery. I would like to do a winter mystery and may involve the Tip-Up-Town festival in Houghton Lake. The third one which is only in the idea stage is "All in Favor, Say Die!" This book would feature the Michigan Legislature tackling the motorcycle helmet law or repeal of same.

Audio Version is Available
After telling numerous people, "Sorry, no, I do not have an audio version of the book," I decided to do it. So, Murder at the Ingham County Fair will be available in audio; MP3 or multiple disks. The cost is $19.95. I am the reader (anything to save a buck). Somehow I don't think I could afford, James Earl Jones!!

St. Helen - What a Wonderful Evening!!
Last April 20th I had the pleasure of speaking to interested patrons of the Richland Township Library in St. Helen, Michigan. The cookies were better than my talk and the questions were numerous. The people in the audience were kind to purchase some books. What a special evening in mid-Michigan. Thanks to B.J. Armstrong for the invitation.

Well, lots of book orders coming in so I must be on my way. Thanks for visiting my web site and I hope to see you at one of the upcoming shows. My best, Rich.


If you would like to purchase any of Rich's books, please follow these simple steps:

1. Download and complete order form
2. Write check for amount due (payable to Buttonwood Press)
3. Mail order form and payment to:

Buttonwood Press
P.O. Box 716
Haslett, MI 48840

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On the Road Again!!

Murder at the Ingham County Fair is about to be Released.

The 11th Book

Audio Version is Available

St. Helen - What a Wonderful Evening!!

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