QUESTION FOR CBSD: should we consider a small Hardcover run on this title?
Anthony Ervin is currently training for the 2016 Olympics in Rio. This personal story is a profoundly interesting narrative that is sure to draw major national attention in the run-up to the Olympics.
Ervin's story is incredibly dramatic--after winning the gold in 2000, he left the sport of swimming behind and descended into a life of sex, drugs, and rock and roll. Twelve years later he resurfaced out of nowhere and was FASTER! And made the 2012 Olympic team.
Ervin is biracial, another dimension to this story.
Together with the Cyd Zeigler book in this season, this title launches the "Edge of Sports" imprint curated by sportswriter and Nation magazine sports editor Dave Zirin.
10,000-copy first printing.
Simultaneous publication of paperback and e-book editions.
International sales potential in the run-up to the 2016 Olympics.
Galleys (and e-galleys via Edelweiss) available in November 2015.
Digital Reading Group Guide available from Akashic's website.
Galley display & giveaways at ALA Mid Winter.
Major media push to national TV, radio, print, and online publications.
Giveaways on Goodreads, LibraryThing, Advvance Access.
