Attention Monterey County middle and high school teachers. Want a copy of my book?

The truth comes out. Like most of my journalist brothers and sisters, I too have aspirations to write the Great American novel. "A Fighting Chance" is far from it, but it comes close ;)

All kidding aside, my first novel will be published Oct. 31 and everyone's invited to the launch on Oct. 29 at the National Steinbeck Center.

But also, I'd love for middle and high school teachers to consider giving it to their students; so if you fall in that category and would like a copy, ask away. Give me your name and address and I'll put you on the publisher's list.

"A Fighting Chance"  is the story of Miguel Angel, a 17-year-old Salinas boy who's trying to stay away from gangs by being involved in boxing. Although is purely fiction, the story is set during the time when the city was about to close its libraries, and it's one of the challenges Miguel Angel faces.

The hero of the book — named after my favorite artist of all time, Michelangelo Buonarroti — is also in love with a rich girl from the other side of the "Lettuce Curtain," which brings a fair amount of tension. It's a story that depicts many of the challenges some of the youth in Salinas face with a definite anti-gang message. If you're interested in getting a copy, send me your address so I can pass it along to the publisher. And if you can recommend other teachers or principals to get a copy that would be great.

You now where to find me! And come see me on Oct. 29!

Update: Offer ends Oct. 31. Since I'm getting so many requests for books, I'm going to have to put a limit to it ;)