Sammy Sloth Sport Superstar

I grew up in Belmond, Iowa and went to college at Iowa State to play football. After college I played a couple years in California and Ohio. Then I moved back to Ames in 2005. Where I currently live with my wife – Heidi, son – Tucker, daughter – Taylor.

I have always enjoyed writing since my high school days. I will write a little bit in my spare time.

I write stories that kids would enjoy. I like to write about sports or events in my life.

My publisher is Tate Publishing. They are a Christian based company out of Oklahoma City. They have a large staff that has been very helpful. I’ve worked with several individuals in all of the different departments and they all have been great.

Sammy Sloth Sport Superstar is my first book.

I’m pretty busy with other jobs. I coach football for the Iowa Barnstormers which keeps me busy. If I have a free day I may spend a little time working on a project. I actually enjoy substitute teaching because I have the opportunity to write while my class quietly works on assignments.

The sister of my wife’s friend had a book published about the same time I was researching a publishing company. I contacted her and asked several questions. She spoke very highly of the company. I did some research of my own and decided to send a manuscript to them. About two months later I received a phone call from Tate Publishing. They were excited to publish my book, as was I.

My kids book, Sammy Sloth Sport Superstar, just came out on March 24. So, it has been available for 9 months now.

I’m working on the sequel to Sammy Sloth. I’m super pumped about this book. I can’t wait for it to come out. Hopefully in a year. I have also been working on a movie script. After having the opportunity to act in We Are Marshall and Leatherheads, I wanted to write a football movie as well. I have a great story to tell, but it just takes forever to write. Kids books are a lot easier.

 Eventually you will get published and it is an incredible feeling to see your book come together for others to read. Be proud of your work. But once you get the book published, you must work even harder to get it out there. The publisher may help you set up book signings and place your book in stores, but it takes a lot more than just that. Always be thinking of ways to promote your book. Find your target audience and look for ways to sell it to them. For instance, I go to elementary schools and give a 30 minute presentation to all of the grades. I then give the kids the opportunity to purchase my book. I really enjoy interacting and having fun with the kids.

If any kid, parent, or teacher that is interested in having me come read to their class, I would be delighted. I talk to each grade for about 30 minutes. I tell them a little about my experiences playing football, coaching football, being an actor in two football movies, and of coarse the writing process. I enjoy telling them about sloths along with the characters in my book. I encourage them to read and work hard in school. I answer any questions and spend the last 5 minutes signing books for the kids. Anyone can email me at coachsloth@yahoo.com or call me at 515-867-3515. They can also find more info about me or my kids book, Sammy Sloth Sport Superstar, at www.coachsloth.com.

I also enjoy writing motivational quotes. My favorite one I like to share is…

“Life’s a movie and you’re the Star, so it’s time to put on a Show!” 

Ryan Sloth

 You have a real nice website. I also attached some pictures of my book. My Barnstormer bio page http://theiowabarnstormers.com/coaches.cfm?PlayerID=17

Thanks Ryan and be sure to let us know when the sequel comes out.

Virginia