When American author Patricia Nell Warren had her novel The Front Runner first published in 1974, it would have been beyond her wildest expectations that it would sell more than 10 million copies. But what’s even more impressive is that the novel has been the inspiration for an international grass-roots movement.

Warren’s novel tells the story of the relationship between an ex-Marine track coach and his Olympic athlete. It’s been translated into 10 languages and is widely acclaimed as one of the most popular gay love stories of all time.