Colin Kaepernick likely had no idea the impact he would have on society from taking a knee. His visible act of protest against police brutality attracted the attention of supporters and critics alike. However, he never let any of the pressure stop him from standing ten toes down (well, knee down) on what he believed was right.

Several years into his activism, Kaepernick is adding young-adult author to his arsenal of tools with an upcoming book entitled “Change The Game.”

The Early Years

Announced via Twitter from Kaepernick Publishing, the young-adult graphic novel will be released on March 7, 2023.

In partnership with Scholastic Publishing, the upcoming novel will be a memoir for readers age 12 and older.

According to the official press release, “Change The Game” will detail the life of a high-school senior athlete who is heavily scouted by colleges and Major League Baseball scouts. As Colin (the novel’s main character) prepares for a life-changing decision, all of his friends and family are sure about what he should choose for his future. However, Colin isn’t as clear about what the next steps should be due to the racial undertones around baseball.

Dreams And Inspriration

The novel, co-written by award-winning author Eve L. Ewing and illustrated by Orlando Caicedo, is a “touching YA graphic novel memoir that explores how a young change-maker learned to find himself, make his own way, and never compromise.”

“I’m excited to continue to grow and expand Kaepernick Publishing’s relationship with Scholastic,” said Colin Kaepernick. “Change the Game is the true story of my high school years–a period punctuated by the trials and triumphs of adolescence. It was during this time that I began to grow unapologetically into my own identity, into my own sense of self. I hope this graphic novel encourages readers to nurture their own evolution and to trust their power—in a phrase—to change the game.”

The title of the book coincides with an announcement of Baltimore, MD HBCU — Morgan State University —  honoring Kaepernick with an honorary degree, doctorate of humane letters.

“Leadership, Integrity, Innovation, Diversity, Excellence, and Respect are more than just words that appear on the flags that adorn our campus or words that we utter casually when reciting our core values; they represent the embodiment of who we are and what a Morgan graduate stands for,” said President Wilson. “With this notion in mind, we intentionally sought a collection of individuals who truly embody these principles, and thankfully we have assembled a trio of diverse voices who have bravely stood—and kneeled—for the betterment and advancement of the voiceless, the marginalized and the disenfranchised.”

Morgan State recognizes Kaepernick for his commitment to social justice and entrepreneurial and investment endeavors.

David E. Talbert and David Burton are the additional individuals receiving the honorary doctorate from the HBCU.

The Future Of Books By Kaep

Colin Kaepernick founded his publishing company in 2019 with the hope of amplifying new voices with diverse perspectives across all literary genres that can build a better and more just world.

Pre-orders for “Change the Game” are available at kaepernickpublishing.com