James Frazee
James Frazee is an avid cook and bridge player. Raised in the Midwest, he received his
Doctorate from Purdue University and currently lives in New York City. Since retiring he has
written four books and serves as an Adjunct Professor at the City University of New York
(CUNY). On weekends he volunteers at a local church, serving meals to the needy.
The Mosquito Bites (2017) is his third book and first fiction novel. Like his protagonist, Alex,
Dr. Frazee spent his early career working for a chemical company that made pesticides for field
crops. In this job he was responsible for testing the efficacy of new products in an outdoor
situation. He was responsible for analyzing the data and making recommendations to
management. It was during these years that he started to think about the potential dangers these
chemicals could be to the environment and the possible long-term effects on humans. His own
experiences and concerns form the basis of the story for this book.
Searching for Sara is his fourth book and second mystery novel. It begins where The Mosquito
Bites ends. Alex and Leslie get entwined in a mystery that started ten years earlier, before they
even knew each other. With only a piece of paper with five words they start on a journey that
puts a real stress on their relationship, but a journey they must take. At the same time, they are
being stalked by a killer who they thought was in prison. As their journey untwines, their
chances of their survival because less and less.
His first book, Beginning Bride by the Numbers 2014, is a beginner “How to” book on learning
to play bridge based on math. It is a step-by-step learning process as well as a reference manual
for both new and intermediate bridge players. Beginning Bridge by the Numbers provides a way
for a new player to understand the basics of bridge, as well as the terminology used in the game,
so they can move to the next level of playing. The book is based on my teaching methods and
years of playing.
His second book, Quick and Healthy Recipes from the Store (2014), provides healthy meals
using what you already have in your kitchen. This book reflects my years of trying to develop
tasty and healthy dushes. It takes the products you already find in the grocery store and enhances
the flavor or substitutes ingredients for healthier meals. The recipes are simple and easy to
make, thus saving time in the kitchen to spend more time with your friends and family.
In 2023, Dr. Frazee was awarded the Distinguished Alumni Award from the University of
Minnesota, Department of Education.