Ben Riggs Talks Dungeons & Dragons at The Book Stall

We are thrilled to welcome role-playing game historian, Ben Riggs to The Book Stall (811 Elm Street in Winnetka) on Sunday, July 24 at 4:00 pm to discuss his new book, “Slaying the Dragon: A Secret History of Dungeons & Dragons.” Through countless never-before-seen documents, interviews, and files, this book tells the untold story of how TSR (Tactical Studies Rules), the company that created Dungeons & Dragons, was driven to ruin by disastrous management decisions, only to be saved by their bitterest rival! Listen to the real-life tale as epic and fantastic as the adventures TSR published. Ben Riggs will be in conversation with Discover Financial Services CEO Roger Hochschild. This event is free and open to the public. Refreshments will be served.

More About the Book “Slaying the Dragon”: TSR was not only the company that created Dungeons & Dragons, it built the role-playing game industry. Despite its monumental role in gaming, twenty years after its rise to success the company was staring bankruptcy in the face. “Slaying the Dragon” examines the colossal managerial mistakes, opportunities squandered, cash wasted and massive lay-offs as creative genius turned to ruinous end. While TSR was floundering, they faced competition the likes of which they’ve never seen before in the form of a collectible card game produced by Wizards of the Coast. Just when D&D appeared to be dead, Wizards of the Coast stepped in to buy the company, saving Dungeons & Dragons from an unknown fate. This miraculous untold story about the salvation of the oldest and greatest role-playing game is a case study of brand management for the 21st century.

“Riggs weaves a tale of corporate intrigue, personal ego, and failed saving throws that will fascinate any fan of D&D. Whether you’re a grognard, still clutching your red box rules…or a recent convert to the greatest game the world has ever played, you’re going to love ‘Slaying the Dragon!'” —Tim Akers, author of “Night Watch”

More About the Author: Ben Riggs is a writer, teacher, and podcaster who has harnessed the power and educational benefits of incorporating games into the classroom. His writing has appeared in gaming periodicals, books, and blogs, and his in-depth gaming podcast, “Plot Points,” is entering its sixth year. His work has appeared in “The Unspeakable Oath,” the nation’s premier horror gaming magazine, and on NPR’s “To the Best of Our Knowledge.” His articles on “Geek & Sundry” are frequently among the most-read and most-shared works on the site. He lives in Milwaukee with his family.