
Ran Toler, author of The Good Old Days of Delbert C. Bear, Esq., is no stranger to the written word. For over 35 years, he has honed his craft as a technical writer, producing precise and informative documents in various fields. However, his journey into the world of fiction was sparked by an unexpected question from his wife nearly a decade ago. “Why haven’t you written a novel?” she asked. That simple inquiry planted the seed for what would eventually become a heartfelt story, one rooted in family memories and childhood treasures.
The inspiration for the novel came one day when Ran’s wife, Ardith, was sorting through keepsakes from her childhood. She shared the story of a beloved teddy bear she had tucked away in a cedar chest, a bear that had been with her for years. This moment of nostalgia stirred Ran’s imagination, and from it, the character of Delbert C. Bear, Esq. came to life. Delbert’s name was a tribute to Ardith’s father, Charles Delbert, with the middle initial “C” serving as a playful addition. The story also features characters named after family members, including Abigail, a nod to Ardith’s niece, and a second character named after Ardith herself.
Ran’s venture into children’s fiction proved to be a magical extension of his technical background. The precision of his writing blended seamlessly with the warmth and creativity of storytelling, resulting in a narrative that appeals to readers of all ages. The Good Old Days of Delbert C. Bear, Esq. not only pays homage to family and cherished memories but also underscores the enduring power of imagination. Through Delbert’s eyes, readers are reminded of the deep connections we share with the objects and stories from our past.