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Ross the catalyst for UK deal

06.06.08 Graeme Neill

The story of a high-flying Microsoft executive turned philanthropist is to be published by Collins next month, thanks to the intervention of "Richard & Judy" producer Amanda Ross.

Leaving Microsoft to Change the World by John Wood will be published on 16th June in paperback. Described by Collins' head of business books Sam Richardson as a "business book, charity story, travelogue and memoir", it charts Wood's decision in 1998 to leave Microsoft and form literacy charity, Room to Read. It has created a network of more than 2,000 schools and libraries throughout Asia and Africa.

The book was published in America by HarperCollins US. Wood recently spoke at a lunch attended by Cactus TV joint managing director Amanda Ross. She was so impressed, she offered to put him on C4's "Richard & Judy", but only if his book was published in the UK. "So we just pounced on it," said Richardson.

The book shows how Wood applied the skills he learnt at Microsoft to the charitable sector. It has also been endorsed by former US president Bill Clinton, who provided a cover quote. "I think the most interesting thing about it is John telling how he turned his life around," said Richardson. "It will be inspirational for those thinking of doing volunteer work. It shows how easily you can use your skills to benefit others." Wood will be a guest on "Richard & Judy" on 26th June.

Book HarperCollins Amanda Ross Graeme Neill Leaving Microsoft to Change the World John Wood

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