Rockwall Coach Breaks Stereotype, Writes Novel

Darkness and drowning are some people’s greatest fears, and for others, the exposure of a shameful secret. All three haunt the main character in Scott T. Gill’s debut novel for teens, Goliath Catfish. Gill; however, is not a full time novelist, getting up everyday writing 2000 words till lunch and reading the rest, he’s a middle school teacher and coach in Rockwall ISD.

“I’ve worked with teens for over 15 years and I love to tell stories,” says Gill, “So why not write one about issues where they struggle?”

Scott teaches eighth grade English and AVID while coaching football, basketball, and track at J.W. Williams Middle School, but in the mornings, before school, he crafts stories. After three years of writing and querying publishers, his work has been published by Glass Page Books of Chattanooga, Tennessee. P.L. Alexander of Glass Page, describes the book as “a boy's youth adventure story, reminiscent of Huck Finn and Tom Sawyer, but a thrill to read for adults, girls, and boys alike.”

The story is about Albert McClune, an impoverished teen growing up in 1940’s Memphis. He runs away from home and befriends a strange young boy who enlists his help to track down the lost ransom money of “Machine Gun” Kelly. The duo brave rat-infested sewers and underground caves, relying on half a map and an oracle by a local witch doctor. Albert will need all the courage he can muster when he runs head-long into every fear he has ever had along with the real dangers he has fought so hard to avoid.

“Reviews by Holly” said of Goliath Catfish, “I picked it up and couldn't put it down until I was finished. I could see the rats and roaches, and I could smell the city and the sewers, and I could feel the fear of Albert McClune when he had to do the unthinkable… A great read. A great experience!”

Roma’s Books of Rockwall (555 East Interstate 30) will host a signing party for Scott’s novel on September 8, from 2-4pm. Roma’s is inviting all interested to come in and pre-order a copy.

For more information on the novel or to read more of Scott Gill’s writings, go to www.glasspagebooks.com or www.scotttgill.com.