It’s been three weeks since I released Jammin with Steven Adams and the feedback I’ve received has been awesome and really encouraging!
I’m so thankful to the educators and librarians who took a chance on a self published author for the sake of their students and really happy for the young people I write for.
And I’ve been thinking about how I started writing this series of sports biographies that includes books on Benji M and SBW.
- It’s late 2010 and a Kiwi teacher based in South Auckland wishes there were more books his students were interested in. Books he’d like to read if he was a student, of sporting heroes, inspirational figures, overcomers …
- He reads a comment by Toni Morrison: “If there’s a book that you want to read but it hasn’t been written yet, then you must write it.” He nervously e mails Benji Marshall’s manager and tells him he wants to write a biography of Benji for teenagers. Benji and his manager support the idea!
- He writes the book and sends it to publishers. “Unfortunately we will not publish this book,” he’s told. “There’s no market for these kinds of books.”
- He doesn’t agree. He decides to self-publish.
- It’s hard!
- He fumbles his way through the process but eventually a box of books arrives on his doorstep. Steppin’ with Benji Marshall is released!“The book is a HUGE hit!!!! Keep writing – a whole series would be awesome!” Kimberley Atkinson (Roberston Rd School, Mangere)
“It has surpassed my expectations. It’s fabulous! The kids are going to absolutely love it, and hopefully carry it’s inspirational message away with them. Thank you so much for writing such high-interest, relevant books. Please keep them coming!” Jennifer Cunningham (East Tamaki School)
“It is absolutely fantastic and can be used for my boys. They will be thrilled. ” Louisa Hala (ASDA High School)
“This is the first “real” book my son has ever read without having to be nagged to read! I am looking forward to reading it myself – but may have to wait until my partner also reads it since there are daily reviews from his son about the book.” Melissa, an Auckland mum
I’m writing this post for others out there whose ideas have been rejected, whether rejected by your own thinking or by ‘experts’.
I encourage you to trust yourself and go make something. The world needs it. Can’t wait to see what you make!
Ben Oge
Awesome – way to go David! I am encouraged and inspired! Thank you for making a difference!
David Riley
Thank you Ben. Encouraging comments like this encourage and inspire me 🙂
Annette McKitrick
Hi David, Steppin’ with Benji Marshall, Off Loading with Sonny Bill Williams and Jammin” with Steven Adams are proving extremely popular with our Intermediate School age students. Any thoughts on writing on New Zealand heavyweight boxer Joseph Parker?
David Riley
Hi Annette yes I’m collecting info for a book on Joseph Parker at the moment! I went to school with Joseph’s uncle and I’m hoping he will be able to connect me with Joseph and his family 🙂
Ann Booth
Hello David, Do you have a list /price list of the books you have managed to publish? I would like to give it to our Librarian to purchase for our readers. Thanks, Ann
David Riley
Hi Ann yes definitely!
SBW and Steven Adams $25
Benji Marshall $20
We Are the Rock $30
Let me know if you would like to order any of them and I’ll post them straight out 🙂