Author Paul C. Bastante Announces book release "PREAKNESS" and Nationwide Speaking Tour
- Paul Bastante
- 7 hours ago
- 3 min read
Debut Novel “Preakness” Uncovers the True Story Behind America’s Most Famous Horse Race Name — Author Paul C. Bastante Announces book release and Nationwide Speaking Tour
Wayne, New Jersey — November 27th, 2026 — Author and filmmaker Paul C. Bastante today announced the upcoming release of his debut novel, Preakness, a true story chronicling the horse behind the name of one of horse racing’s most storied events — the Preakness Stakes. The book will be available November 27, 2026, through Amazon and direct sales at Preakness.info.
Preakness grew out of Bastante’s 2018 documentary film, Hills & Valleys A Journey Through Wayne, N.J., which explored the history of Wayne, New Jersey. That research led him to a deeper story waiting to be told in full: the real history behind the horse whose name has become synonymous with one of America’s oldest and most prestigious sporting traditions.
“This is a story that’s been hiding in plain sight for over a century,” said Bastante. “Millions of people know the name Preakness from the second leg of the Triple Crown, but almost no one knows the real story of the horse it’s named after. I wanted to bring that history to life.”
A Nationwide Speaking Tour
In conjunction with the book’s release, Bastante will be embarking on a speaking tour, bringing the story of Preakness to audiences at bookstores, libraries, historical societies, and equestrian and racing events across the country. Presentations will cover the historical research behind the novel, the surprising true story of the horse’s origins, and the process of turning years of documentary research into a work of narrative historical fiction.
Author Paul C. Bastante is available for speaking engagements, interviews, and appearances at live events or podcasts on the topic of Preakness. Event organizers, bookstores, libraries, and media outlets interested in booking Bastante or requesting an interview may contact him directly.
About the Book
Preakness will be available in hardcover, paperback and eBook formats beginning November 27, 2026, with copies available for holiday delivery by December 24, 2026. The book can be purchased through Amazon and directly through the author’s official site, Preakness.info.
About the Author
Paul C. Bastante is a New Jersey-based writer and filmmaker. He is the director of the 2018 documentary Hills & Valleys A Journey Through Wayne, N.J., and Preakness is his debut novel.
Book Reviews
JANICE P. - WAYNE, N.J.
"Preakness delivers a heartful, emotional story of a magnificent horse and the people who loved him. Mixing historical fact, descriptive landscapes and beautiful character development, Preakness will leave a long-lasting impact on its reader. And if you grew up in Wayne, the book will add a layer of pride you already feel for your hometown. Highly recommend!"
JESSICA H. - FLORENCE, N.J.
"A story that pulls you in right from the opening pages and does not release you."
GEORGE H. - WAYNE, N.J.
"Preakness is a book equal parts history and fiction. Preakness had an unbreakable free spirit. That is what made him a champion. One of the greatest thoroughbred horses of all time. This is also a story of the man who understood him. And ultimately sacrificed everything. Once you start, you cannot put it down."
FRED R. - PORT CHARLOTTE, FL
"Preakness: A story of life, love and loss. The triumph over adverse tragedy where man vs beast and the fine line that separates them."
CRISTIE N. - OCEANPORT, N.J.
"A very moving and interesting story of a remarkable man, a horse, and several lives that were impacted by them both. The fact that it is based on a true story makes it even more compelling."
Media Contact:
Paul C. Bastante
Email: paulcbastante@gmail.com
Website: Preakness.info
Phone: 973-981-3662
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