Doug Brown, local pro skateboarder, releases third book
By Angela Workman
March 25, 2014
445
Summary: Doug Brown released his third book, Bliss of the Unwind: My Life Beyond the Board, on March 18. The book is a combination of his previous books, but with a deeper look at his life leading up to his professional skateboarding career.
For Doug Brown, professional athlete, motivational speaker and author, the release of a book is pretty cathartic. This is especially true for his third book, Bliss of the Unwind: My Life Beyond the Board, which was released on March 18. It is a mix of his two previous books with a deeper look into his life. Brown explored uncharted territory and relived painful moments in an effort to connect with his readers.
Brown described the book as an honest account of his life story. He explained that the book tracks the dark spots in his past, such as his mothers battle with cancer and her death. He said the book details his life leading up to his professional skateboard career.
Not everything was easy to write about. It was pretty draining, especially finishing it up during this arctic winter. I wrote all day and night. I had to play detective on my life, Brown said.
He added that his research involved interviewing his father and sifting through family photos and letters his mother wrote. Brown explained that he learned new information about his life as he explored.
I talk a lot about Wooster. From Layton Elementary, to spending Sunday mornings with my dad and brother eating at the Parlor Restaurant, Brown said.
In addition to his books and motivational speaking, Brown is also known for appearances on the Dew Tour, Gravity Games, ESPN, Fuel TV and NBCs Good Co. Today Show. He explained that the skateboard was once his microphone, but his words now reach further.
I care about people. I know the power of words. If I can change someone's life for the better then I've done my job, Brown said.
The book is available at all major bookstores. If purchased from www.beyondtheboard.net, the book will be signed. The funds benefit the Skate Straight Foundation, which is an organization founded by Brown. Tour dates for book signings are listed at www.dougbrown.org. Brown will engage in TV and radio interviews as well. He will also continue with school, library and hospital appearances.
I want to continue to inspire, to reach out, to give back. I've gone through my share of turmoil in my life and helping those in need is everything to me. I have so many stories, going to hospitals, going to schools. The feedback I get is the biggest paycheck I could ever receive, Brown said.
According to Brown, the book has been years in the making. When considering how honest and open his fans have been with him, it comes as no surprise that he is offering such an intimate glimpse into his world. Brown said he connects with fans from all walks of life, and his stories have helped his audience overcome obstacles. One fan in particular had been considering suicide until he picked up one of Browns books. Brown explained that these stories offer the ammunition to keep writing.
I encourage people to follow their dreams, to believe in themselves, to subscribe to optimism and hope, especially the youth. I've been that kid from Wooster with big dreams and ideas. I've learned from everything I went through, Brown said.
