Texas Author Supports Education Through University of Texas-Themed Children's Book

HOUSTON, Dec. 1, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- Texas native Rick King pays tribute to his alma mater in the recently published children's book, Bodie & The Burnt Orange Sunset, which tells the story of The University of Texas' mascot, Bevo, and his rise to stardom.  But unlike most tall Texas tales, this baby-Bevo epic paves the way for future potential longhorns through the donation of a portion of author royalties to the BEVO Endowment, which supports the care of The University of Texas mascot Bevo and works to improve grade performance and reading, increase student retention rates and provide college scholarships to economically disadvantaged youth in Texas.

(Photo: http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20111201/DA14709)

This brightly illustrated tale of Bodie's rise to become Bevo features an encouraging message of perseverance, Longhorn spirit, and a list of beefy facts about the real Bevo. From his birth under a blazin' burnt orange sunset on a Texas ranch to his magnificent journey across the Lone Star State, Bodie triumphs over a parade of pesky rivals to become the biggest, baddest Longhorn around.

"Bodie & the Burnt Orange Sunset is a charming and delightful book that Longhorn parents and grandparents will love," said Sally Brown, wife of Texas head coach Mack Brown. "It's sure to be an instant classic!"

The perfect holiday gift for little longhorns everywhere, Bodie & The Burnt Orange Sunset is available at Barnes & Nobles, Hastings, Brazos Bookstore, all UT Co-op locations, The Alamo, The LBJ Library, Book People, as well as online.

A portion of author royalties will benefit the BEVO Endowment, which supports The University of Texas Silver Spurs in their care and transportation of Bevo; as well as their contributions to the Neighborhood Longhorns Program (NLP), an educational incentive program.

For more information on the book and future book signing event announcements, visit www.facebook.com/BodieBook. To learn more about the BEVO Endowment, visit www.utsilverspurs.com.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Rick King is an Emmy-winning writer/producer/director and graduate of the prestigious University of Texas Advertising program. He currently serves as a Creative Director for a Houston advertising agency and has garnered more than 100 creative awards. Rick resides in Houston, Texas.

ABOUT THE ILLUSTRATOR
Mario Rivera is an illustrator and commercial artist who graduated from the Rhode Island School of Design. He lives in Houston, Texas.

SOURCE Rick King