R.N. Bullard

An alien life form, resembling glowing rocks, summons forth a huge, rolling ball of fire, whenever threatened, that incinerates people.

In turn-of-the-century Mississippi, an 11-year-old boy comes of age as two mischievous adult friends talk him into sneaking the family car out for a trip to Memphis and a series of adventures.

After their candidates win control of a farming community in an election, fruit-pickers start getting harassed by the local law enforcement officials.