Malcolm Mitchell admits he didn’t like reading when growing up. His focus was football, and his skills took him from Valdosta to the University of Georgia and now the NFL.

But when he got to college, Mitchell said he finally acknowledged that he couldn’t read and write as well as should. And he challenged himself to make it happen. While still in college, Mitchell authored a children’s book titled, “The Magician’s Hat.”

On Saturday, the 24-year-old visited an Atlanta bookstore to read his book and sign dozens of copies as part of his efforts to encourage reading.

“This is just who I am,” Mitchell said. “Books. Football. Writing. This is me.”

Read more about Mitchell's mission on myajc.com.

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The city of Brookhaven's mayor and City Council last week decided to remove the colored panes of glass from the dome of Brookhaven's new City Centre after residents objected to the brightness of the colors, seen here Friday, June 27, 2025. (Reed Williams/AJC)

Credit: Reed Williams/AJC