funny that you should mention James Michener. I've read most of his books starting over ten years ago. "Centennial" was the first one I ever read from Michener, but my all-time faves from him is "Chesapeake", "Texas" and "Alaska" What is truly amazing about Michener is that he did not start writing until he was in his 40s! His characters and backgrounding of the stories made me think I was right smack deep into the story 
I hadnt had a chance to pick up "Bone Collector" yet but thanks for the heads up, john.......
