Find out what inspired Edward Schmit to write "The Open Era" down below.
What was your inspiration behind your most recent book?
A few years ago, I picked up tennis as an outlet to work on my mental health. I started looking for players to watch and support. And as a gay man, I of course wanted to cheer for the LGBTQ+ players on tour. Since Billie Jean King, there have been quite a few out female players, but I couldn’t find any men.
To date, no openly gay man has ever competed in the main draw of a Grand Slam. I wanted to explore why that is, and what it would be like to be the man who makes history in that way. The triumph, the pressure, the media attention, the ups and downs.
What does Reading Rainbow mean to you?
I think I would have liked reading more as a kid if I had queer-centered stories to enjoy. For me, Reading Rainbow, writing with pride, is a love letter to my younger self. I’m making up for lost time.
Why do you feel representation of a variety of people is so important when it comes to writing books?
It's a wonderful feeling to see yourself in a story. It’s equally important to get a glimpse into someone else’s world and get to live in their mind. It develops empathy and understanding, and the world needs so much more of that. And it makes a better story – including diverse characters with different world views, experiences, hopes, and dreams. Those are stories worth reading.
Tell us a little more about the book and why you decided to write it.
"The Open Era" follows the first openly gay male tennis player to compete in a Grand Slam who must battle his mental health, media attention, and a handsome new rival. It’s full of sweat, tears, and a lot of heart. And it all takes place during an electric two weeks at the US Open in New York City.
I wrote it because it hasn’t happened yet in real life, so I decided to will it into existence with this book.
What can fans expect from your book?
Expect a high-stakes sports drama, a mental health journey, and a rivals-to-lovers romance, all directly at odds with each other. Get ready for some epic, gay tennis this summer!
What's up next for you in the bookish world?
I can’t say much, but I’m having a great time working on my next novel, also a queer romance. It’s a brand-new story, but expect another emotional summer adventure. You’ll see it 2027 with Berkley / Penguin Random House, and follow me on Instagram (@edwardschmit) for updates.
