John Delin grew up in Syosset and graduated from Syosset High School in 1960. He was always interested in the history of his hometown and, through the Internet, he reached out and built a large network of former classmates and helped organize reunions.

With his late classmate, colleague and friend Pamela Boslet Buskin, whose father was Syosset's postmaster for over 30 years, Delin developed a nonprofit Syosset-related website featuring old Syosset photos from their collections. As the website grew, they added images obtained from other Syosset residents.

"After Pam passed away in early 2006, I continued the website," said Delin. "Arcadia Publishing contacted me in August 2006 about writing a local history of Syosset. Pam and I had wanted to eventually write such a book and I was delighted to hear from Arcadia Publishing. We loved growing up in Syosset and I feel honored to add the images I have compiled and text I have created to provide a rich history of the town and many prominent resdidents."

And Syosset People and Places was born. The book, which was published by Arcadia Publishing, recounts Syosset's rich history.

Using photographs and memorabilia from past and present residents, Delin has preserved the history of Syosset, which was first known as Eastwoods in 1648, through his book.

The book details major local educators in the 20th century along with stories of the former Syosset Fire Department building. Through more than 200 rare photographs and postcards, Syosset People and Places represents the residents, homes, businesses and schools that have shaped the historic community.

Delin said he found inspiration in the book Syosset by Tom Montalbano. "Tom did such a good job that Arcadia thought it was time to do another book," said Delin, who did not repeat any of the images used in the first book.

"I hope this book will be considered an important supplement to the prior histories and serve as a meaningful way to preserve the history of our wonderful town," said Delin.

Delin lives with his wife Janis in Staten Island. They have two sons, a daughter and two granddaughters.

The book is available at area bookstores as well as online or through Arcadia publishing at www.arcadiapublishing.com. Delin will be holding a book signing on Saturday, August 23 from 1 to 3 p.m. at Syosset Borders, which is located at 425 Jericho Turnpike in Syosset.