• Synopsis
• Significance of the name
• What's unique about EVAN BRAIN!
• Classification
• Individual Titles
• Format
• Target audience
• The gross factor: why kids love EVAN BRAIN books
• Fun Writing Exercise for Kids
• Brief author bios
• Books create national brand
• Media coverage
• Media contact
• Press Releases | Reviews & Testimonials
The EVAN BRAIN! book series is about Evan Brian “Brain” Doyle, co-authored and illustrated by 15-year-old Evan’s own self. They recount the adventures of young Evan and his troubles at home, in school and with his babysitters. Evan, a committed nonconformist then and now, is usually in trouble of one sort or another.
The memorable title refers to Evan the first grader purposely transposing letters in his middle name to proclaim his superior intelligence and to annoy his teacher.
The books are a hoot, but the hook is that Evan Brian “Brain” Doyle, 15, co-authored and illustrated these original works… kicking and screaming every painful step of the way as his hapless mother begged, cajoled and threatened. Eve Becker-Doyle says she’s going to choke the next person who asks about the wonderful bonding experience it must be to write books with her teenage son.
Classified as humor books ages 8 to 80, the EVAN BRAIN! series has something for everyone who likes to laugh. The bold, contemporary design and punchy cartoon graphics holler for attention and grab the eye. The books recount the adventures of young Evan, self-proclaimed nonconformist and bane to those who champion conformity.
The first two books, EVAN BRAIN! Adventures of a Delusional Kid Superhero and Evan Brain’s Christmas List and Other Shenanigans: Boy Warrior Fights Evil, follow an unconventional format. With two authors, each chapter is presented twice.
For example, here’s how EVAN BRAIN! Adventures of a Delusional Kid Superhero is constructed. Becker-Doyle has the first word as she writes about Evan’s family, Evan’s affinity for comics, and Evan’s troubles in kindergarten, first grade, second grade, and with babysitters. Each story about Evan's escapades is basically true, and includes Evan's original notes, schoolwork, assignments, and communications from disgruntled teachers. Following his mother’s version of each chapter is Evan’s fantasy rendering of the incident.
At the end of the story are Evan’s glossary of weird terms, a photo collection of Evan, and a two-page spread of more sassy cartoons by Evan and his sister Tory.
Suitable for ages 8 to 80, the books' naughty boy theme appeals to children. Tweens, teenagers and other Harry Potter enthusiasts are drawn to the fantasy element. Parents identify with the story if they have incorrigible offspring and thank their lucky stars if they don’t. The undecided call it an effective means of birth control. Anyone who’s ever been a child or been acquainted with one can appreciate Evan’s shenanigans. Only committed misanthropes and others determined to keep the joie de vivre at bay need not read this book.
Children today don’t like to read. This is a major concern to parents, who know readers are likely to get a better start and chance in life.
Wall Street Journal reporter John Hechinger states one obvious, effective approach. Find something they want to read. The headline to his August 8, 2008 story says it all: “Problem: Boys Don’t Like to Read. Solution: Books that are Really Gross.” Violence and gore and bathroom humor.
Enter the EVAN BRAIN! book series, which fits the bill aptly because the books are illustrated and co-authored by a 15-year-old gifted boy addicted to gaming, reads only comics and fantasy, and like so many of his peers, has ADD issues. His co-author and mother Eve Becker-Doyle worried about the political correctness of images in Evan’s edgy writing and cartoons. A former children’s book editor and teacher advised her not to worry. That advice was well taken — boys and girls alike love the books. The Calvin and Hobbes-like stories resonate with readers and non-readers of any age who appreciate sassy, irreverent humor. Read Full Story
Here's an Evan Brain resource for teachers and parents. How do you get boys and girls to write without the use of a cattle prod or firearm? Your best bet is to make it fun and be sure the writing encompasses stuff kids are interested in. The gore will have special appeal for boys.
It's Fun to Write Fantasy
An association management professional with a master's in journalism, Eve Becker-Doyle is an avid editor. She wields the red pen with enthusiasm, much to the chagrin of her colleagues in her day job at the National Athletic Trainers' Association.
Co-author Evan Doyle’s work experience has been limited to date. Given his present under utilization of educational opportunities and mouse potato inclination, his future may hold a career in food service at the Golden Arches.
The EVAN BRAIN! series is establishing a national brand. Other titles are in development now. Greeting cards and other items are available through our online product catalog. Becker-Doyle is in licensing discussions now with industry suppliers to launch a branded line of products to the promotional products and premium markets. EVAN BRAIN! Christmas stickers, developed by Gill-line, may be purchased with an advertising imprint through your promotional products distributor.
Media Coverage
EVAN BRAIN! and the authors are featured in the following publications, programs, news services and websites:
Media Contact
Media queen Rachelle Pachtman is handling the national rollout of the EVAN BRAIN! books. For details, contact Pachtman at 212-996-1715, rachelle@pachtman.com.
