Robinson Tackles Michael Vick Case in First Book

Kenneth N. Robinson (pictured below), ’94, ’96, lecturer of sociology, has published his first book, From Vick-Tim to Vick-Tory: The Fall and Rise of Michael Vick. Released in October, the book examines the case of Michael Vick, the NFL quarterback who made headlines in 2007 for his involvement in dog fighting.

On Friday, November 22, Robinson will host a book signing event at Perk’s Café and Market at 36 Broadway Street in Buffalo. The event begins at 6:00 p.m. and is open to the public.

“This all started with a letter that I wrote to the Buffalo News sports section about society’s reaction to the Vick case and it eventually became a book,” said Robinson, who presented the first chapter of his book at the annual meeting of the American Sociological Association in 2011. “Although the case has generated a lot of headlines, I thought it deserved a more thorough, critical analysis. This book opens a broader discussion about the social factors that explain Vick’s fall and subsequent rise on and off the field. It also looks at the broader sports culture of the NFL, including the involvement of the media, corporate sponsors, and politics of the state.”

From Vick-Tim to Vick-Tory has already garnered significant attention from across the country. Within the past month, Robinson has been interviewed by radio stations in Buffalo, New York City, and Richmond, fielding questions from fans who are still deeply interested in the high-profile case. In addition, the book is the focus of a television special that will air on Time Warner Cable (Channel 20 in the Buffalo area) at 7:30 p.m. on select days over the next six weeks.

“It’s been interesting to study society’s view of Vick over time,” said Robinson, who has used this case study as the basis for critical-thinking exercises in the Introduction to Sociology course that he teaches at Buffalo State. “Vick served time in prison for his actions and has since spoken out against dog fighting in speeches on behalf of the Humane Society and on Capitol Hill. Some people have forgiven him, while others never will.”

The foreword to the book was written by Ron Stewart, professor of sociology at Buffalo State.

From Vick-Tim to Vick-Tory is available at the Barnes & Noble at Buffalo State Bookstore and online through Strategic Book Publishing and Rights Agency.