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 Wrong Turns Write Life
A Family Vacation Journal

by Frank Rocco Satullo
The OhioTraveler

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Life rarely goes according to plan—especially on vacation. But sometimes the wrong turns write the best stories.

Wrong Turns Write Life: A Family Vacation Journal is a laugh-out-loud collection of true travel misadventures, unforgettable detours, shocking surprises, and hilariously human moments gathered from decades of family trips across the United States and beyond.

What began as a handwritten vacation journal tucked in a glove box grew—one trip at a time—into this entertaining, lighthearted memoir of mishaps, memories, and the comedy that comes from simply trying to get away.

From missed exits that led to unexpected treasures… to storms that turned into ridiculous encounters… to bizarre moments so unbelievable they could only happen on vacation—these stories celebrate the chaos, joy, and beautiful unpredictability of the open road.

In these pages, you’ll experience:

• Funny family mishaps that become instant legends
• Unexpected detours that reveal hidden gems
• Cringe-worthy moments you’ll laugh about later
• Heartfelt reflections on the power of shared adventure
• Short, punchy stories perfect for light reading or gifting

Whether you’re a seasoned road tripper, a parent who’s survived family vacations, or someone who just loves a good laugh, you’ll recognize pieces of your own adventures—or be thankful you’ve never experienced some of these.

As author Frank Rocco Satullo writes, “If there’s one thing the road teaches, it’s that the unplanned makes for the best memories.” After more than thirty years of travel across America and Europe, Satullo pulled together his most entertaining, surprising, and downright unbelievable stories into this humorous travel memoir.

Straight from the glove box to the page, this strange, wild, and heartwarming journal reminds us that every road—right or wrong—leads to a story worth telling.

So buckle up. You’re in for a wonderfully unpredictable ride.

Also New in The Bookstore

Travel & tourism also expose us to grim stories. 
These encounters discovered on the road were the inspiration of this dark novel. 

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A dark, honest, and unexpectedly uplifting journey into the human spirit—where suffering is real, hope is fragile, and faith hides quietly between the lines.

The Stars Behind the Clouds is a gritty, character-driven novel that explores the raw edges of human struggle. Told with emotional depth and unflinching realism, this story follows men and women—young and old—whose lives bend under the weight of grief, abuse, guilt, addiction, disability, and loss. Some survive. Some do not. And in every arc, something true is revealed.

This is a book about the shadows people carry, and the surprising ways a glimmer of grace can sometimes break through.

More than thirty years in the making, the novel began when author Frank Rocco Satullo scribbled its first chapter in an attic apartment in West Germany as a nineteen-year-old. Decades later, he found that forgotten notebook at the bottom of a tattered box and read it by flashlight with unexpected intrigue. What he discovered wasn’t just an old idea, but the spark that would guide him in finishing this tale of suffering, perseverance, and the faint stars that guide us when all other light is gone.

In these pages:

• Darkness and light collide in stories of trauma, tragedy, and internal survival
• Characters search for meaning, even when life gives them no reason to hope
• Moments of gut-wrenching sadness are met with unexpected warmth, humor, and humanity
• Quiet spiritual undertones weave through the narrative without preaching
• A few find redemption—others don’t—but all leave an imprint

The result is a soul-searching, redemptive literary fiction novel that embraces both the brutality and beauty of the human condition. It’s for readers who appreciate life’s harder truths, yet still believe in an elusive, hard-earned joy.

This is a dark journey to see the light—to discover The Stars Behind the Clouds.

It makes for a great book club book discussion in 2026

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Welcome to Around About Books in Troy.

• Open: Monday–Thursday 10 am – 5 pm; Friday–Saturday 10 am – 6 pm; Closed Sunday
• Location: (Map It) 8 W Main St. in Troy, Ohio
• Phone: (937) 339‑1707
• Web: click here

Around About Books is Troy’s cherished independent used bookstore, proudly serving the community since 1992. Nestled in the heart of downtown Troy, this expansive two-story shop offers a vast selection of gently used books, movies, audiobooks, vinyl records, comics, puzzles, and games. The store is renowned for its extensive collection of Ohio authors and its dedicated bargain room, where everything is priced at $1 or less. With over 4,800 square feet of space, Around About Books provides a cozy and welcoming atmosphere for book lovers of all ages. Whether you’re searching for a rare find or a beloved classic, this local gem offers a delightful browsing experience.

Welcome to Birch Tree Bookery in Marion.

• Open: Mon 9am-12pm, Tue-Thu 12-5pm, Fri 10am-6pm, Sat 10am-3pm, and Sun 1-3pm
• Location: (Map It) 605 E Center St, Suite B, in Marion, Ohio
• Phone: 740‑262‑3312
• Web: click here

Birch Tree Bookery is Marion’s only independent bookstore, founded in 2023 by Crystal and Justin Bessler. This is the place for the love of books, and they carry the latest bestsellers, a carefully curated collection of gently used books, and all the inspired bookish accessories you would expect—in addition to the treasures you won’t find elsewhere. A place for booklovers to gather, Birch Tree Bookery offers in-store events such as book clubs and author showcases. They also support educators and area schools with fundraising school book fairs.

Welcome to Birdie Books in Westerville.

• Open: Daily 10 am – 6 pm
• Location: (Map It) 74 N State St. in Westerville, Ohio
• Phone: 614-942‑6005
• Web: click here

Birdie Books is a warmly inviting independent bookstore nestled in historic Uptown Westerville. Housed in a charming Victorian-era Queen Anne house, this new-bookshop-and-café combo offers a beautifully curated selection of new titles and delightful gifts for readers of all ages. The store hosts regular community events—including seasonal story times, author signings, and creative workshops—bringing people together in a cozy, vibrant setting. Recent visitor reviews highlight the cheerful interior, well-chosen inventory, inclusive vibe, and helpful staff. With its bright murals, thoughtful layout, and local charm, Birdie Books is a must-stop for literary travelers and gift seekers exploring central Ohio.

Welcome to Black Cat Books in Medina.

• Open: Daily from 11am – 7pm
• Location: (Map It) 420 S. Court St. in Medina, Ohio
• Phone: 440-263-0650
• Web: click here

Black Cat Books & Oddities is inside two century homes. Take a journey to explore the rooms; there are always new oddities to discover. The enchanting world of books is woven into the mystic rooms named Phantom’s Passage, Secret Garden, Sherlock’s Study, The Shire, Frankenstein’s Lab, The Raven’s Roost, and the Cabinet of Curiosities, to name some. Parking options include behind the house or across the street.

Welcome to Clintonville Books in Columbus.

• Open: Monday–Thursday 10 am – 6 pm; Friday–Saturday 10 am – 7 pm; Sunday 11 am – 5 pm
• Location: (Map It) 3286 N High St, Columbus, Ohio
• Phone: 614-429‑3560
• Web: click here

Clintonville Books is an independent bookstore located in the Clintonville neighborhood of Columbus, Ohio. The shop offers a diverse selection of new, used, vintage, and rare books for readers of all ages. Founded by author Grant Sabatier, the store aims to provide a community-driven space for book lovers. In addition to its curated book collection, Clintonville Books hosts various events, including book signings, readings, and community gatherings, fostering a vibrant literary culture in the area.

Welcome to Dark Star Books & Comics in Yellow Springs.

• Open: Sunday–Thursday 11 am – 5 pm; Friday–Saturday 11 am – 6 pm
• Location: (Map It) 237 Xenia Ave. in Yellow Springs, Ohio
• Phone: 937‑767‑9400
• Web: click here

Dark Star Books & Comics has been a beloved fixture in Yellow Springs for over 36 years. With a collection of more than 40,000 used, rare, and collectible books—from science fiction and metaphysics to classic literature—it’s a treasure trove for curious minds. The store also carries back-issue comics, graphic novels, games, geek-culture collectibles, and a carefully selected range of new titles. Tucked into a cozy Xenia Avenue storefront, Dark Star hums with friendly staff, a resident store cat, and a community-focused vibe that makes every visit feel like returning home

Welcome to Elizabeth’s Bookshop & Writing Centre in Akron.

• Open: Tuesday–Saturday 9 am – 7 pm; Sunday 9 am – 3 pm (closed Mondays)
• Location: (Map It) 21 Furnace St., Unit 3, in Akron, Ohio (inside Northside Marketplace)
• Phone: 614‑209‑1533
• Web: click here

Founded in 2020 by author and activist Rachel E. Cargle, Elizabeth’s is Akron’s only Black‑, queer‑, and woman-owned independent bookstore and writing centre. Located inside Northside Marketplace, this vibrant literary hub amplifies QTBIPOC voices through a carefully curated selection of fiction, memoir, poetry, children’s books, and more. Beyond selling books, the shop serves as a community gathering space—hosting writing workshops, reader meetups, author readings, and book clubs—connecting readers and writers in Akron’s Middlebury neighborhood.

Welcome to Fireside Book Shop in Chagrin Falls.

• Open: Monday–Saturday 10 am – 8:30 pm; Sunday 11 am – 6 pm (opens at 10 am on Farmer’s Market Sundays).
• Location: (Map It) 29 N Franklin St. in Chagrin Falls, Ohio
• Phone: 440‑247‑4050
• Web: click here

Nestled in downtown Chagrin Falls since 1963, Fireside Book Shop is a cherished, independently owned gem with three floors of new and gently used books plus a generous selection of gifts, toys, games, puzzles, and greeting cards. Housed in a renovated former auto-supply store, it’s run by longtime staff, now owners Jean Butler and Lori Muller‑Zaim, offering a warm, community-focused experience with expert help and a “nerve center” in the basement for order tracking. Whether you’re browsing bestsellers, children’s favorites, or trading in a treasured volume, this cozy shop—now over 60 years strong—feels like home to locals and travelers alike.

Welcome to Gathering Volumes in Perrysburg.

• Open: Mon – Fri 10am – 6pm, Sat 10am – 5pm, Sun 11am – 3pm
• Location: (Map It) 196 E South Boundary St. in Perrysburg, Ohio
• Phone: 567-336-6188
• Web: click here

Gathering Volumes is a friendly, full-service bookstore that lives up to its name—it gathers books, people, and ideas under one roof. Located near Toledo in the town of Perrysburg, it offers new books across all genres, including a robust selection for kids and young adults. The store is a hub for local authors, community events, and book discussions, making it a must-visit for literary travelers in northwest Ohio.

Welcome to Joseph‑Beth Booksellers in Cincinnati.

• Open: Monday–Saturday 8 am – 9 pm; Sunday 9 am – 8 pm (call for holiday hours)
• Location: (Map It) 2692 Madison Rd. in Cincinnati, Ohio
• Phone: 513‑396‑8960
• Web: click here

Founded in 1986, Joseph-Beth Booksellers is a beloved, locally owned indie bookstore on Cincinnati’s Madison Road strip. Its spacious, two-level layout features an extraordinary children’s section, thoughtfully stocked aisles across all genres, and a full café and restaurant, making it a destination for both book lovers and casual browsers. Community-focused events include regular storytimes, author visits (like the Local Author Spotlight), book clubs, and wine tastings, all contributing to its reputation as “book heaven” with “knowledgeable staff”. Whether you’re hunting for a new release, attending a literary gathering, or enjoying a café treat, Joseph‑Beth merges literary exploration with café culture in a warm, engaging environment.

Welcome to Lake Erie Book Company in Geneva.

• Open: Tue – Sat 11am – 6pm, Sun 12pm – 4pm
• Location: (Map It) 25 N Broadway in Geneva, Ohio
• Phone: 440-361-3390
• Web: click here

Lake Erie Book Company in downtown Geneva is a charming indie bookstore just minutes from the Lake Erie shoreline. Inside, you’ll find a carefully curated selection of new books—fiction, nonfiction, and children’s titles—as well as locally made gifts and regional authors. The welcoming space is known for its literary events, author signings, and inclusive community vibe. Whether you’re visiting Geneva-on-the-Lake or wine-hopping through Ashtabula County, this bookstore is a perfect spot to pause and get lost in a good story.

Welcome to Little Professor Book Center in Athens.

• Open: Monday–Tuesday 9 am – 6 pm; Wednesday–Friday 9 am – 8 pm; Saturday 10 am – 8 pm; Sunday 10 am – 5 pm
• Location: (Map It) 65 S Court St. in Athens, Ohio
• Phone: 740-856-2505
• Web: click here

Established in 1974, Little Professor Book Center is a cherished independent bookstore located in the heart of Athens, Ohio. Known for its extensive selection of books across all genres, the store caters to a diverse community of readers. Under the ownership of Nicholas Polsinelli since 2018, Little Professor has expanded its offerings to include board games, card games, puzzles, and Magic: The Gathering products, fostering a vibrant community space for both book enthusiasts and gamers. The store hosts regular events such as board game nights, role-playing game sessions, and book clubs, creating a welcoming environment for all ages. With a commitment to customer satisfaction, Little Professor offers gift wrapping, local delivery, and nationwide shipping, ensuring that every book lover’s needs are met. Whether you’re searching for the latest bestseller or a hidden gem, Little Professor Book Center is your go-to destination in Athens.

Welcome to Loganberry Books in Shaker Heights.

• Open: Monday–Tuesday 10 am – 6 pm; Wednesday–Thursday 10 am – 8:30 pm; Friday–Saturday 10 am – 6 pm; Sunday 12 pm – 5 pm
• Location: (Map It) 13015 Larchmere Blvd. in Shaker Heights, Ohio
• Phone: 216‑795‑9800
• Web: click here

Loganberry Books has been a beloved Shaker Heights landmark since its opening in 1994, nestled in the historic Larchmere neighborhood. With more than 100,000 volumes—new, used, and rare—the store’s ornate wood and tin-ceiling interiors exude warmth and charm, extended by plush reading nooks and eclectic décor. Under owner Harriett Logan, this locally-owned treasure is known for its quirky character—floor-to-ceiling shelves, a resident cat, a vintage mural, and a dedicated “Sanctuary” of rare editions. More than a bookstore, it’s a cultural hub: hosting author talks, live music, open mics, themed clubs (e.g., Queer Book Club, Political Dystopia), the “Stump the Bookseller” service, and community art in the Annex Gallery. Widely celebrated—named Ohio’s Best Bookstore by Mental Floss and a Cleveland Magazine favorite—Loganberry is a must-visit literary oasis for travelers and collectors alike.

Welcome to Mulberry St. Books in Lebanon.

• Open: Mon – Sat 10am – 5pm
• Location: (Map It) 46 E Mulberry Street, Lebanon, Ohio
• Phone: 513-934-BOOK (2665)
• Web: click here

Mulberry St. Books is tucked into the heart of historic downtown Lebanon and offers an inviting atmosphere for readers of all ages. Specializing in new and used books, this family-run shop offers a rotating selection of local authors, children’s stories, and popular titles. Inside, you’ll find warm wooden shelves, comfy reading nooks, and friendly folks who love to talk books. It’s a literary treasure on one of Ohio’s most picturesque main streets.

Welcome to Ohio Book Store in Cincinnati.

• Open: Monday–Saturday 9 am – 4:30 pm; Closed Sunday
• Location: (Map It) 726 Main St. in Cincinnati, Ohio
• Phone: (513) 621‑5142
• Web: click here

Established in 1940, Ohio Book Store is a cherished independent bookstore located in downtown Cincinnati. Spanning five floors, the store offers a vast selection of used books across all subjects, including rare and collectible editions. In addition to its extensive book collection, Ohio Book Store features a full-service bookbinding and repair department, providing restoration services for old books and custom binding options. Whether you’re searching for a specific title or exploring the diverse offerings, Ohio Book Store provides a welcoming environment for book enthusiasts. The store’s knowledgeable staff is always ready to assist you in finding the perfect book or preserving your cherished volumes.

Welcome to Pretty Good Books in Ashtabula.

• Open: Tuesday–Friday 11 am – 5 pm; Saturday 11 am – 3 pm; Closed Sunday and Monday
• Location: (Map It) 4535 Main Ave. in Ashtabula, Ohio
• Phone: 440-992‑1425
• Web: click here

Pretty Good Books is a woman-owned independent bookstore nestled in Ashtabula, Ohio. Specializing in used, vintage, rare, and one-of-a-kind books, the store offers a curated selection that caters to diverse literary tastes. Whether you’re searching for classic novels, unique finds, or local authors, Pretty Good Books provides a welcoming space for book enthusiasts. The store is known for its community involvement, hosting events like sidewalk sales benefiting local causes, and offering special discounts on special orders. With its commitment to fostering a love for reading and supporting local initiatives, Pretty Good Books stands out as a cherished literary destination in Ashtabula.

Welcome to Prologue Bookshop in Columbus.

• Open: Sunday 11 am – 6 pm; Monday–Thursday 11 am – 8 pm; Friday 11 am – 9 pm; Saturday 10 am – 9 pm
• Location: (Map It) 841 N High St. in Columbus, Ohio
• Phone: 614-745-1395
• Web: click here

Nestled in Columbus’s vibrant Short North Arts District, Prologue Bookshop is a modern indie bookstore that opened its doors in 2018. Founded by Dan Brewster, who was inspired by the thriving independent bookstore scene in San Francisco, Prologue offers a carefully curated selection of new books, games, cards, and literary gifts. The store is known for its cozy atmosphere and commitment to fostering a love of reading and community. Prologue regularly hosts author events, book signings, and themed bookish gatherings, making it a hub for literary enthusiasts in the area.

Welcome to Rabbit Hole Books in Dayton.

• Open: Daily 12 pm – 7 pm
• Location: (Map It) 29 W First St. in Dayton, Ohio
• Phone: 937-999‑4092
• Web: click here

Rabbit Hole Books is a delightful secondhand bookstore nestled in downtown Dayton, Ohio. Operated by the Dayton Book Fair, this unique shop offers a vast selection of books for just $1 each, making it a haven for book lovers on a budget. The store’s cozy atmosphere is enhanced by its whimsical decor and friendly staff, creating a welcoming environment for all visitors. In addition to its impressive book collection, Rabbit Hole Books hosts various community events and collaborations, including themed parties and partnerships with local businesses, fostering a strong sense of community engagement. Whether you’re searching for a hidden literary gem or simply looking to enjoy a good read in a charming setting, Rabbit Hole Books is a must-visit destination in Dayton.

Welcome to The Book Loft of German Village in Columbus.

• Open: Daily 10am – 11pm
• Location: (Map It) 631 South 3rd Street in Columbus, Ohio
• Phone: 614-464-1774
• Web: click here

The Book Loft of German Village in Columbus is all about the journey…through the multilevel store that continues on-and-on, and on-and-on, in and out of 32 rooms tucked into a lovely brick building, wrapped in brick sidewalks, and an old street lamp shining from its curb appeal to the side gardens and walkway, stretching back to a courtyard and book garden, whispering old-world charm all the way around. It is one of the country’s largest independent bookstores and once housed a saloon, general store, and nickelodeon cinema. Nestled in the old German Village neighborhood of Columbus, Ohio, it has a culture all of its own. And although it may seem endless in tales, it has an intimate warmth that says, “Hey, stay a while.” And you will. Check out the website above for author book signings and bargains galore.

Welcome to The Druid’s Library in Celina.

• Open: Tue, Thu & Sat 10 am – 5 pm
• Location: (Map It) 210 W Market St. in Celina, Ohio
• Web: click here

A true grassroots bookstore born of community support, The Druid’s Library opened early in 2024 inside a repurposed marketplace office. Owner Brian Whiting—self-described Druid—built the collection with nearly 200 donated books and gently used furniture. The result is a cozy, eclectic shop offering fiction, children’s picks, metaphysical texts, and more. With comfortable seating and even an electric fireplace, it’s a relaxed spot to browse or chat. Part bookstore, part community hub, it’s a cozy, one-of-a-kind stop in Celina for travelers and book lovers.

Welcome to The Learned Owl Book Shop in Hudson.

• Open: Monday–Saturday 9 am – 7 pm; Sunday 12 pm – 5 pm
• Location: (Map It) 204 N Main St. in Hudson, Ohio
• Phone: 330‑653‑2252
• Web: click here

Established in 1968 and housed in a historic 1867 building on Hudson’s Main Street, The Learned Owl is a beloved three-story independent bookstore serving readers of all ages. With over five decades of history, its cozy, creaky-floored interior features nooks perfect for lingering and exploring classics, bestsellers, children’s picks, and hard-to-find titles. Known for its knowledgeable, friendly staff and warm community vibe (“smells like a bookstore,” “feels like You’ve Got Mail” atmosphere), the shop regularly hosts author events, book clubs, writing workshops, and children’s programs, making it a cherished local literary hub. Whether you’re a casual browser, a passionate reader, or a writer-in-progress, The Learned Owl offers a welcoming, intimate setting ideal for discovery and connection.

Welcome to Two Dollar Radio Headquarters in Columbus.

• Open: Wed – Sun 10am – 6pm
• Location: (Map It) 1124 Parsons Ave. in Columbus, Ohio
• Phone: 614-725-1505
• Web: click here

Two Dollar Radio Headquarters is more than a bookstore—it’s an indie press, a vegan café, and a creative cultural hub on Columbus’s South Side. It’s known for championing bold, outsider literature while offering a cozy space filled with handpicked titles. The shop frequently hosts author readings, live music, and film screenings. With zines, small press gems, and killer coffee, this HQ lives up to its reputation as one of the coolest lit spots in Ohio.

Welcome to Wheatberry Books in Chillicothe.

• Open: Tue – Sat 10am – 6pm, Sun 12pm – 4pm
• Location: (Map It) 41 S Paint Street in Chillicothe, Ohio
• Phone: 740-851-6152
• Web: click here

Wheatberry Books in downtown Chillicothe brings community and curiosity together in a cozy, plant-filled space. This independent bookstore stocks new titles, children’s books, stationery, and unique gifts. The name “Wheatberry” reflects growth and nourishment—both fitting metaphors for the shop’s mission to support readers and creators in southern Ohio. From book clubs to story hours, Wheatberry is a creative anchor in Ohio’s first capital city.