News Summary
Tim Wesley and Tom Bickert, ex-editors from the University of Pennsylvania’s student newspaper, have teamed up to write ‘Game Changers’, a sports-mystery conspiracy novel. Set against the backdrop of the corrupt 1920s Harding administration, the novel explores themes of government corruption, gambling, and the dark side of sports. This collaboration reflects the authors’ extensive journalism backgrounds and passion for truth, while also highlighting the ongoing relevance of sports betting in today’s society.
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Former editors associated with the University of Pennsylvania’s student newspaper, The Penn, have recently made headlines with their collaboration on a new mystery sports-betting novel, Game Changers. This literary partnership brings together seasoned journalists Tim Wesley and Tom Bickert, who worked alongside editor Jim Pane to refine the manuscript for publication. The novel delves into the intricate and often corrupt world where government, big business, sports, and gambling intersect.
The collaborative effort on Game Changers highlights the enduring journalistic spirit of its authors, Tim Wesley and Tom Bickert, and the editorial expertise of Jim Pane. The book, a captivating sports-mystery conspiracy novel, explores a fictional narrative rooted in historical events. It uncovers a complex web of deceit and power, beginning with a low-level government employee who initiates a scheme that grows to involve corrupt businessmen, mob figures, and a determined reporter seeking the truth. A particular focus is placed on a greed-driven father-son duo exploiting the widespread fascination with sports and gambling.
The storyline of Game Changers harks back to the 1920s, set against the backdrop of the notoriously corrupt Harding administration. During this period, a central character begins leveraging government funds to bet on and fix sporting event outcomes, a practice that continued for decades. The novel questions whether such systemic corruption truly ceased, suggesting its echoes resonate in the current climate of government misconduct, conspiracy theories, and evolving sports-betting scandals.
Authors Tim Wesley and Tom Bickert, both highly experienced former sportswriters and passionate sports enthusiasts, embarked on this project despite not being gamblers themselves. Their combined professional background spans 125 years in award-winning journalism and corporate communications. This extensive experience, coupled with their inherent curiosity for truth and a healthy skepticism, informs the rich narrative of Game Changers.
The University of Pennsylvania, often referred to as Penn, has a notable connection to the literary world, particularly within the mystery genre. Esteemed mystery writer Martin Cruz Smith, known for his Arkady Renko series, is an alumnus of the University of Pennsylvania. Furthermore, Jon Wertheim, a prominent journalist who has reported extensively on sports gambling, also holds a law degree from the University of Pennsylvania.
The increasing prevalence of sports betting in contemporary society provides a timely backdrop for Game Changers. The widespread availability of online sports betting services underscores the relevance of a narrative exploring the darker facets of this industry. The novel’s themes of corruption and the pursuit of truth resonate with broader public interest in the integrity of sports and governance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who are the authors of the novel Game Changers?
The novel Game Changers is co-authored by Tim Wesley and Tom Bickert.
What is the title of the new novel?
The title of the new novel is Game Changers.
What genre does Game Changers belong to?
Game Changers is a sports-mystery conspiracy novel.
What are the main themes explored in the novel?
The novel explores themes at the intersection of corrupt government, big business, sports, and gambling, uncovering a fictional sports conspiracy.
Who edited the novel Game Changers?
The novel Game Changers was edited by Jim Pane.
What is the background of the authors, Tim Wesley and Tom Bickert?
Tim Wesley and Tom Bickert are former sportswriters and avid sports fans with a combined 125 years of award-winning experience in journalism and corporate communications.
What is the connection to Penn?
The authors are described as former editors associated with the University of Pennsylvania’s student newspaper, The Penn. The University of Pennsylvania also has alumni who are notable mystery writers and journalists covering sports gambling.
Key Features of Game Changers
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Title | Game Changers |
| Authors | Tim Wesley and Tom Bickert |
| Editor | Jim Pane |
| Genre | Sports-mystery conspiracy novel |
| Key Themes | Corruption in government, big business, sports, and gambling; pursuit of truth; historical sports conspiracies. |
| Historical Setting | Begins in the 1920s with the Harding administration; continues through decades of alleged sports fixing. |
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