S&S to publish Michael Holding's 'message of re-education'

Simon & Schuster is to publish former West Indies Test cricketer Michael Holding's Why We Kneel, How We Rise. 

The publisher has acquired UK and Commonwealth rights from Charlotte Atyeo at Kingsford Campbell to the book, described as "an important new book on racism".

Due for publication in June 2021, the book was born out of the response to Holding's comments on racism earlier in the year when broadcasting on Sky Sports.

The synopsis explains: "In Why We Kneel, How We Rise, Holding has joined together with a wide range of leading Black sporting heroes from around the world to help change minds and amplify his messages of re-education and inspiration."

Ian Marshall, deputy publishing director, said: "Like so many, I was struck by the extraordinary power of Michael Holding’s words when he was asked about racism during a break in play. He spoke with such devastating logic and clarity, highlighting the challenges we all face to change something that has existed for hundreds of years. But, more than that, he spoke with hope and a real belief that we can all help make things better. This book will be an important part of that conversation for years to come, and everyone at Simon & Schuster is delighted that we have the opportunity to bring it to the widest possible readership."

Holding added: "To say I was surprised at the volume of positive feedback I received from around the world after my comments on Sky Sports is an understatement. I had messages, emails and other communication from people of all ages, races and religious persuasions, thanking me for what I had said and hoping that it would make a difference. From these and other conversations, I came to realise I couldn’t just stop there; I had to take it forward–hence the book, as I believe education is the way forward and I am hopeful this book can help in this regard. I am extremely grateful that Simon & Schuster have seen it fit to want to get involved in this project as they obviously are as passionate as I am about trying to level the playing field."