In the early ’60s, Dale Netherton attended Iowa State, reading the novels required for his generation. Now he’s publishing his own book for the next generation.

Netherton will sign copies of his book, “The Manipulators,” Thursday at University Book Store.

Netherton says publishing a novel is something everyone dreams of doing.

“You’re there at school, you study and books are being passed out to you,” Netherton says. “Then I write a book for the next generation. It’s a nice way to pass the torch.”

“The Manipulators” is the story of two Russian spies encouraging the organization of the American anti-nuclear movement. The two spies fall in love and reach a life or death situation which requires them to search their souls for who they are, what they mean to each other and what choices they must make.

“In a sense, the manipulators in the story are not based on real people but thoughts and actions throughout my life,” Netherton says.

Netherton began his career as an author by writing poetry. He started writing “The Manipulators” about 15 years ago. Netherton says he attempted to get the book published for eight years.

“Once I had it written and edited, it took time finding a specific publisher to open up to what they weren’t exactly selling but what they could sell,” Netherton says.

Netherton says his part-time handyman business and ownership of a campground has taken a back seat, now that he has added another dimension to his life with his published book.

Netherton says he has always had a desire to read about characters larger than life who could make important decisions and act appropriately.

“This is something I’ve wanted to do all along,” Netherton says.

“It’s a transition into the world I want to be in.”

Netherton relates the book to finding a soulmate.

“You find [love] and then you can’t believe it,” Netherton says. “It’s the same thing [with this book].”