Read book, then see show: NPC member's book gets TV deal; Rap on Aug. 26

Eleanor Herman, a member of the National Press Club for 15 years, will discuss her new book, “Legacy of Kings: Blood of Gods and Royals,” at a Club Book Rap Wednesday, Aug. 26, at 6:30 p.m. in the Ballroom.

The Book Rap comes on the heels of news that Simon Helberg, who plays Howard Wolowitz on “The Big Bang Theory,” and his wife, writer-director-actor Jocelyn Towne, have obtained exclusive rights to produce a TV show based on Herman’s book on Warner Brothers Television. The television company made the announcement.

The event includes an author discussion, a questions-and-answers session with the audience, and book signing. Tickets are $5 for National Press Club members and $10 for the public. Click here to register.

The Book Rap is a fundraiser for the nonprofit NPC Journalism Institute, so no outside books or memorabilia are permitted. Books must be purchased through the Club. All sales are final and no refunds are issued.

In the first installment of a planned four-part series, Herman writes in "Legacy of Kings" about Alexander the Great at 16, a time when he is coming into manhood and eager for power. Little is known about him until he becomes the king of Macedonia at age 20. Herman extrapolates backwards to the teenage Alexander she imagines, weaving fantasy elements into the story she spins.

Already the author of New York Times nonfiction bestsellers, Herman decided to take her knowledge of history to the hottest genre in publishing -- young-adult fiction. She has been an active member of the NPC's Book & Author Committee, which is sponsoring the event.

Larry Lipman, former NPC president and B&A member, will interview Herman on the book, the history and writing young-adult fiction. There will also be a brief PowerPoint presentation on ancient Greek sites associated with Alexander the Great.