26-Year Old Richmond Author Wants Readers to Discover" Something Within Themselves

Richmond author Chris Sorensen is doing everything possible to make sure others are uplifted and inspired by his debut novel "The Greatest Discovery".

To most it would seem odd that a story about finding ones direction and potential in life could be written by a young man in his mid-twenties, but not to Chris Sorensen. When asked where he found the time to write, promote, and publish a book while attending undergraduate school, working, raising an infant, and starting graduate school, the twenty-six year-old Chesterfield native did not hesitate in responding. It was something I felt I had to share with others. I want readers to not only relate to my story, but also be able to apply it to their own lives, their own desires and goals. I want them to ask 'What is the greatest discovery? and then come away with a different point of view after reading it."

The Greatest Discovery", although a work of fiction, is based on the authors life. Other than the fact that it is just a great story, thats one of the things that is intriguing about the book -- a reader who does not know Chris personally will be unsure as to what part is real and what part is fiction," says Robert Soderholm, who oversees publicity at Pond Publishing.

The novel, which has an official release date of January 24th, has already sold about 300 copies. Chris has taken substantial risks -- both in time and finances -- to make sure that everyone knows about the book," adds Robert. There are six book signings this month alone, not to mention radio spots as well as an interview with Bill Bevins on Lite 98 on January 31st. He has even gone so far as to mail a copy to each library branch in Virginia to make sure the librarians know about the book when patrons ask for it. Chris is doing things Ive never heard of before, but hes willing to take the risks so that people will find the book."

Set in Virginia, The Greatest Discovery" tells the story of a young married man, Chris, an expecting father who has recently started graduate school. Over time, he begins to feel unsure about his career choice and what the future holds. But after befriending a wise, peculiar man named Lewis, Chriss way of thinking begins to change. Just as Chris feels that he is heading in the right direction, a tragic event makes him re-analyze his motives and question his abilities. With a newfound responsibility upon his shoulders, some gentle insight from Lewis, and a life-changing discovery, Chris is able to put his life on a path that will bring him fulfillment and happiness.

Chris isnt alone in believing his book has something to offer; his book has been praised by critics and media around the country, as well as locally. Area bookstores continue to become increasingly excited about its potential. It is rare to find a self-published, debut novel that has the quality, marketability, and potential that Chriss book has. Because of its engrossing storyline that appeals to a wide audience it will be a book people will want to share with others," says Stacey Ricks, Community Relations Manager of Barnes and Nobles at Libbey Place. Were just excited about the book -- its that simple. Its an amazing effort by a first time author," says Ron Nowland of Little Professor Book Center.

You can visit Chriss website at www.thegreatestdiscovery.com to view the author events calendar and to preview the first four chapters. The book is hardcover and retails for $15.95. The sequel to the book, The Greatest Choice", is scheduled for publication in Spring 2004.