First Tracks Tops 10,000 Copies Sold

SNOMWASS VILLAGE, CO, November 14, 2012

Aspen Daily News columnist and children's book author, Johnny Boyd, has surpassed the mark of 10,000 copies sold of his children's ski book, First Tracks. Now in its fourth printing, the self-published tome has been a hit in the niche market of skiing. However, it didn't come without hard work and determination.

First Tracks has enjoyed no media hype to speak of and was published on a shoestring budget, but Boyd has managed to turn his book into a success by personally visiting ski towns across the United States and cold-calling retailers. "I drove 5,000 miles the first year establishing my retail base," he said. "The success of this book is due to shoe leather and tires being worn out." It helps that the places he visits are among the most beautiful locations on the planet.

Boyd spends a lot of time on the phone as well. "Every year I have to call each of my retailers to remind them to buy books," he says. "Only a small percentage reorder on their own. If I don't make it happen, it simply won't happen." Being self-published might not garner much respect, but when the day is done it translates into self-respect. "I like working for myself and each sale is a victory. At the end of the day there is a feeling of accomplishment."

First Tracks has become a must-have souvenir of the three- to six-year-old adventure travel set. When one of the 10,000 kids that owns a copy of First Tracks reaches for the book the memories of an entire ski vacation comes flooding into their minds. "Skiing has been my life," says Boyd. "I wanted to give something back. Kids that love to ski translate into families booking vactions. The benefits to the ski industry are immeasurable."

First Tracks is available at Boyd's website, http://www.ptopress.com, and amazon.com. Johnny Boyd is available for interview and, as we have learned, isn't afraid to travel. Email: ptopress@ptopress.com