New book chronicles Chandra and Jimmie Johnson's life "On The Road"

Photographer Missy McLamb's photos capture Jimmie Johnson
throughout the 2011 Chase in the new book "On The Road."

CHARLOTTE, N.C. (Sept. 12, 2012) - Chandra and Jimmie Johnson announced today the release of their self-published book, On The Road. The 208-page, hardcover book chronicles Johnson’s 2011 unsuccessful quest for an historic sixth consecutive NASCAR Sprint Cup Series championship.

The book reveals lifestyle photographer Missy McLamb’s unprecedented access to all aspects of the Johnsons’ lives, from the frustrations of ending his record-breaking winning streak to the joys of fatherhood with then 1-year-old daughter Genevieve. NASCAR’s 10-week playoff known as the Chase serves as the backdrop for this first-hand account of the emotional toll running for a championship takes on Johnson, his family and team.

“I don’t think many people realize just how consuming and stressful the Chase can be,” said Chandra Johnson, who helped spearhead the project. “Most fans know what happens on the racetrack. This was a unique way for us to show what happens behind the scenes.”

The book was self-published by the Johnsons and packaged for publication by designer Mark Pollard. Pollard’s history of book design includes editions with Stephen King, Roy Rogers and The Pace Gallery. He is an award-winning designer for the film industry and has worked with such renowned directors as Wes Anderson, Darren Aronofsky, Jim Jarmusch and Todd Haynes, whose mini-series, Mildred Pierce, was the 2011 Creative Arts Emmy winner.

A limited release of 2,000 copies will be available for purchase exclusively trackside at the No. 48 merchandise hauler starting Friday (Sept. 15) at Chicagoland Speedway in Joliet, Ill. The track is the site of the first race in this year’s 10-race Chase where Johnson will begin his quest for a sixth NASCAR Sprint Cup Series championship. Johnson will sign books at the merchandise hauler Saturday (Sept. 16) immediately following the Nationwide Series race. He will hold additional signings at track during the Chase while supplies last. In addition, copies are available at jimmiejohnson.com.

“This really was a passion project for Chani and me,” Johnson said. “Missy (McLamb) had unlimited access to our family, as well as the team. She did a wonderful job of capturing the emotional roller coaster that is the Chase. It’s a perspective fans typically don’t get to see.”

A gallery showing of select prints will take place Oct. 13-20 in Charlotte, N.C. For more information, visit ontheroadstudio.com.

- Press release