Inspiring Children's Book Featuring Josef Newgarden Launches at Road America
June 23, Elkhart Lake, Wisconsin – Starting this weekend, parents will have a new way to fuel their kids’ imagination, inspire them to chase their dreams all while having high-speed fun! Apex Legends author / illustrator Chris Workman and Verizon Indy Car Series star Josef Newgarden have teamed to create “Josef, The IndyCar Driver”, a unique illustrated children’s book that uses Indy car racing to send a positive message that anything is possible.
"I am hopeful that kids are attracted first to this book because of the unique visual approach and storyline,” said Newgarden. “I know when I was a kid when I saw something exciting and fun, I was interested in it regardless of the subject matter. Growing kids’ interest in racing and IndyCar will be a natural effect if they like what they are reading. This type of content can be extremely engaging to young kids and fans of Indy car racing, and that is something I really want to be a part of.”
Newgarden’s personal story of following his dreams from racing motorized scooters to the pinnacle of racing in North America, the Indianapolis 500, helps show a path to achieving goals. “Josef was the perfect choice for this children’s book,” reflected Workman, a father himself. “He is such a likeable guy on and off the racetrack, and he is always working as an ambassador for the sport. He is a true inspiration.”
A fictionalized, action-packed race at Road America, the road course featured in the book, offers and entertaining and educational stage for the high-speed world of Indy car.
“Road America was the perfect choice for the book,” offered Workman. “The first race I ever attended was an Indy car race at Road America. I immediately fell in love with racing when I saw those cars rocketing through the woods! It is such a visually stunning place with elevation changes, blind turns and fast straightaways - my goal was to try and recreate that experience for the readers through the eyes of the fans and also from Josef’s perspective looking out from the cockpit. “
Regardless of whether you - or your kids - are into cars or racing “Josef, The Indy Car Driver” provides a visually appealing and entertaining storyline that also provides education about Indy car racing for those who aren’t as familiar with the sport. True race fans won’t be disappointed either, because of the attention to detail in the illustrations and action.
“Josef and I set out to create a book that would be authentic for kids who are into racing and have a dream of becoming a race car driver. But it also had to be appealing to anyone who is looking for a positive, action-filled story,” continued Workman. “Our hope is that the book will attract a new generation of kids to get interested in Indy car racing, and that it inspires and empowers them to chase after their goals, whatever they may be.”
The book is most appropriate for kids five-years old and older. However, a companion coloring book has been created with simpler text for younger kids and early readers to enjoy.
“This book gives young kids and fans an true glimpse into some of the twists and turns that led me to racing in IndyCar,” explained Newgarden. “Not only will this be a very entertaining read, but it will also include many facts about the sport which will help educate kids about racing and my personal history.”
“Josef, The Indy Car Driver” will be available for purchase at the Paddock Shop at Road America, on apexlegends.com and through Amazon.com at launch. Apex Legends is also working with distributors to expand the reach of the book to libraries, independent chains and national retailers.
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