Popular Video Game Voice Actor Narrates His Award-Winning Debut Novel

NORTH BEND, Wash., Jan. 24, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- 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)

About the Author

Gary Schwartz began his professional career as a mime at age 13, performing with Pete Seeger and other well-known folk singers. He continued as a mime into the '70s, transitioning into the spoken word and acting in the 1980s. He has appeared in numerous film and television projects since then, including the Oscar-winning feature film Quest for Fire and the Emmy-winning children's show Zoobilee Zoo.

He studied with theater games creator Viola Spolin for many years. Today he is a passionate improv coach and facilitator devoted to carrying on Spolin's techniques, and promotes her work around the world. http://spolingamesonline.org

He lives in North Bend WA. http://www.gary-schwartz.com

The King of Average is his first novel.  He is available for speaking engagements, readings, workshops and interviews.

The King of AveragePublished by Bunny Moon Books ISBN: 978-1-5137-0331-2

Contact:Gary SchwartzPO Box 1123North Bend, WA 98045Phone 425/47-5667Fax 425/831-7917[email protected]

PR Contact: Pamela Labbe [email protected]

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SOURCE Gary Schwartz