March 25, 2003

VERNON, NJ - One of the Hearn family members has been busy with something other than racing this year. Susan Kelly Hearn, wife of E.M.P.A. And NYSSCA Driver of the Year Brett Hearn has written her first children’s book "Martin and T.J.’s Race Car Repair", published by Coastal 181.

The book, which is delightfully illustrated by artist Gary Robinson, tells the story of two clever mice who not only figure out how to repair a race car but, to their surprise become stowaways on an unexpected trip to the speedway.

Surprisingly, research has found there is a limited selection of children’s books about one of the fasting growing family sports in the U.S. today – auto racing. The majority of racing books geared toward young children are non-fiction stories written about a specific driver or team and illustrated with real photographs. "Martin and T.J.’s Race Car Repair", is not being published to promote a specific team, but rather to create an interest in local short track racing, and, at the same time encourage young fans to read by providing them with an interesting topic.

"Martin and T.J.’s Race Car Repair", will be the first children’t book published by Coastal 181. Their books Bugsy! The Life and Times of Bugs Stevens, They Called Me the Shoe – The Kenny Shoemaker Story, and Fonda! Have already proven best sellers. Pre-publication sales of Martin and T,J,’s Race Car Repair have been very strong.

The book sells for $15.95 and may be purchased by sending a check or money order (plus $5.00 for shipping and handling) to:

A.V.G.
PO Box 1175
Dept. web-303
Vernon, N.J. 07462

or by calling (973) 702-0811 during business hours for credit card orders.