The Illinois State Historical Society (IHS) has named “A More Perfect Place: The Story of Flossmoor,” a book by Flossmoor resident Tom Dobrez, a “Best of Illinois History” for 2026.
The recognition is given for works chronicling the state’s rich past.
The book was awarded a certificate of excellence at the historical society’s annual awards luncheon on April 25.
In awarding the prize, IHS described the book as giving readers “a personal, but revealing tour of a place that he feels is a living testament to the American experiment.”
Dobrez also has launched a podcast called “Flossmoor in Fifteen.”
“I’m deeply humbled by this honor,” Dobrez said. “I respect all institutions dedicated to preserving history and the fact that (the Illinois Historical Society) recognized my book as a ‘Best of Illinois’ is remarkable.”
Published by the Across My Aprils in November of 2025, “A More Perfect Place: The Story of Flossmoor” is a meticulously researched tribute to the village.
A representative for the publisher said: “We decided to publish this book in hardcover and make it available online at the book’s website and through local retailers so that residents can be proud to display this book of an important history of the village.”
The book is available in Flossmoor at Gypsy Fix, 1056 Sterling Ave., and Dunning’s Market, 1050 Sterling Ave. In Homewood, the book is available at Beyond Books, 18063 Dixie Highway; The Rock Shop, 18109 Dixie Highway; and Ups-A-Daisy Boutique, 18100 Martin Ave.
For digital readers, the audiobook is available on Amazon’s Audible, and the e-book edition can be purchased on Kindle.
The book also inspired a documentary film by the same title, which has been screened at numerous fundraising events throughout the village. Anyone interested in viewing the movie should visit the book’s website, which lists future screenings.
Tom Dobrez is also the author of “Root, Root Root for the Home Teams.” He is the president and co-founder of Flossmoor’s Future, a citizen-run nonprofit that created and operates the Hidden Gem Half Marathon, which has been named Race of the Year by the Chicago Area Runners Association three times in its six-year history.
