Appleton, Wisc. — Tom Nelson’s latest book, the acclaimed THE GREEN AND GOLD STANDARD: A PEOPLE’S HISTORY OF THE GREEN BAY PACKERS, will be released Sept. 1. Hailed as “A complete history of the team…not just an exciting read but an important one,” by the late Packers president and foreword author Bob Harlan, Nelson’s third book is a sweeping history of the only fan-owned franchise in pro sports. “There have been fine pieces on important eras, remarkable players, and memorable seasons and games,” wrote Harlan. “But something’s missing… one book in one sitting.” The book covers every major team milestone from 1919 to now.
THE GREEN AND GOLD STANDARD is a top title of the 2026 fall catalog of Triumph Books (Chicago), the nation’s leading sports publisher. “We’re thrilled to be publishing Thomas Nelson’s definitive history of the Packers, one of the most iconic and winningest franchises in the NFL—and the only one owned by its fans!” said senior editor Josh Williams.
Fresh interviews with ex-players, key personnel, reporters and community leaders explain why this unique sports story is so important. “Everyone knows the Packers are special, but why?” Nelson said. “My goal is to entertain fans with a complete history of the team while presenting a central message and answer, ‘Now I get it. This is what makes the team so special.'”
THE GREEN AND GOLD STANDARD is available for pre-order on Amazon and at local stores. The book will hit shelves and be delivered to front porches across Packer Nation on Sept. 1. Book tour dates will be announced soon.
Early raves: “Expertly weaves the unique story of the Green Bay Packers through the experiences of the people who led, played for, and followed this hallowed franchise from the beginning…” — Wayne Larrivee, Packers Radio Network
“Tom Nelson approached this book like a football staff preparing for a championship game. No detail was overlooked.” — Bill Jartz, anchor, WBAY-TV (1998-2025), Lambeau PA announcer
**Pre-release copies available for media on request.**
Tom Nelson is the Outagamie County executive and author of Wrecked: The Edmund Fitzgerald and the Sinking of the American Economy (Michigan State Press, 2026) and One Day Stronger: How One Union Local Saved a Mill and Changed an Industry (Rivertowns Books, 2021)
