The debate of whether or not violence in video games adversely affects kids aside, actor turned author Gary Schwartz, well-known for violent characters in video games like Team Fortress 2, Left4 Dead 2, and Dota 2, has written an inspiring story of hope for abused kids with his heartfelt, hilarious, pun-filled debut novel, THE KING OF AVERAGE.
Schwartz grew up in a dysfunctional family with unhappy and mentally challenged parents. He suffered abuse, both verbal and physical. Despite that, he made a successful acting career dedicated to entertaining children, and voicing characters for many movies, TV shows and video games.
THE KING OF AVERAGE tells of eleven-year old James’ quest for love and self-acceptance in a land where psychological states are actual places. It has been compared to children’s classics like The Phantom Tollbooth and The Wizard of Oz. Named to Kirkus Reviews Best Books of 2016, and IndieReaders’ Best of 2016, the book is now available as an audiobook.
The King of Average (ISBN is 978-0-9975860-7-7) is unique in a niche some have called “Self-Helpful Fiction.” It is decidedly non-violent, as the hero befriends a talking goat, a professional French optimist and an equally professional pessimist named Kiljoy. He encounters, many bizarre characters all voiced expertly by Schwartz.
“We take the trauma of childhood with us into adulthood. Without self-awareness, we can suffer our whole lives,” says Schwartz. “I hope this story inspires children to better understand their feelings and discover their own truth in a fun and entertaining way. Many parents and teachers tell me they enjoyed the book because its message resonated with them as well.”
The book is produced by Cedar House Audio and published by Bunny Moon, available exclusively on Audible.com. (http://www.audible.com/pd/Kids/The-King-of-Average-Audiobook/B01N1QLRQ4)
