Bill Hillmann Launches Urgent New Novel “White Flight” Today

UPDATE: Bill Hillmann’s highly anticipated novel, “White Flight,” has officially launched today, October 17, 2025, promising readers an exhilarating blend of personal storytelling and gripping drama. Published by Tortoise Books, this novel explores the tumultuous journey of a family navigating life’s challenges in the 1990s, marked by violence, love, and dreams of redemption.

Hillmann, a former boxer and now an acclaimed professor at East-West University, draws from his own life experiences to craft a narrative that is both powerful and poignant. The story follows Joe Walsh, a character based on Hillmann himself, as he grapples with familial strife, including a sister’s gunshot wound and a brother’s struggles after prison. This riveting tale reflects the fragility of hope amidst chaos, making it a must-read for those seeking depth in contemporary literature.

With a background that includes a master’s degree in fine arts from Columbia College and a Ph.D. from the University of Louisiana-Lafayette, Hillmann is no stranger to overcoming adversity. Once described as a “destructive monster” battling alcoholism, his life transformed after discovering the works of Ernest Hemingway, igniting his passion for writing. Hillmann’s journey from near destruction to literary acclaim serves as an inspiring narrative thread throughout “White Flight.”

“I did not know that literature could be about exciting stuff. I thought novels were about and written for rich people, not people who led exciting lives,” Hillmann stated.

The novel’s launch party, which took place at the iconic Green Mill Cocktail Lounge, has quickly become a buzzworthy event, attracting fans and literary enthusiasts alike. Hillmann is also busy teaching five classes weekly at East-West University, where he emphasizes the importance of storytelling as a means of connection in a diverse educational environment.

In addition to promoting “White Flight,” Hillmann is launching a new student competition focused on boxing, further integrating his passion for the sport into his academic endeavors. He expresses excitement about the future, stating, “Storytelling is the greatest way for people to connect.”

As Hillmann continues to navigate his dual life as a writer and educator, readers can expect to see more from this dynamic author. His previous works, including “The Old Neighborhood” and “Mozos,” have already established him as a prominent voice in contemporary literature.

With “White Flight,” Bill Hillmann invites readers to experience a world filled with raw emotion and real-life challenges. This urgent release is not just a novel; it’s a reflection of Hillmann’s transformative journey, making it an essential addition to any bookshelf.

For more updates on Bill Hillmann and his literary contributions, stay tuned as we follow the unfolding story of “White Flight” and its impact on readers everywhere.