Self-published debut by Allen Levi becomes top U.S. bestseller and draws Tom Hanks for film adaptation

Allen Levi's "Theo of Golden," initially self-published with help from his niece Aron Ritchie, has become an unprecedented bestseller, remaining on one outlet list for 36 weeks and moving 3.5 million copies in the United States. The novel, noted for its Christian themes and focus on generosity, was later acquired by Atria Books, a Simon & Schuster imprint, and re-released in November. Warner Bros.

Pictures is negotiating the film rights, and Tom Hanks is in talks to star in the adaptation while also serving as a producer. Levi, who entered writing after careers as a lawyer and singer-songwriter, drew inspiration from his late brother Gary and a local coffee-shop portrait display in Columbus, Georgia. The book's popularity surged through grassroots promotion, leading to appearances on Oprah Winfrey's podcast and praise from former "Today" host Hoda Kotb. Levi is also developing a sequel, "Ellen of Golden," as the story continues to gain global traction.