Tommy has always looked up to his dad. His dad taught him how to play football, and he always looks to the sideline to see if his dad is there to cheer him on. When his dad doesn't come, Tommy knows why. His dad is a firefighter, and though he is proud of his dad, he can't help worrying that one day his dad won't come home. Then the worst happens. Tommy wonders how he will ever measure up to his dad's legacy as he becomes the man of the house. Lupica does a nice job of blending in football with the real struggles of a teenager who is facing loss. I can't imagine losing a parent so early in life. There is a real weight on Tommy's shoulder that is palpable in this book, but he realizes he can't do this on his own. I know I like to think of myself as independent, but none of us can handle life by ourselves. This story brings that to life.
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Landon knows that he would perfect for the football team. His size alone would make him a great lineman, but one thing holds him back. He's deaf. With help from his friends and a few famous football players, Landon just might make the team and persevere. I love a good comeback story. I'm a sucker for true stories about real athletes who beat the odds, Unbroken by Laura Hillenbrand or the movies, Cinderella Man or Invincible. Tim Green's book is one of those. He also gives you a glimpse into what it might be like for someone who was deaf and wanted to play football. Green mentions two of his book fans who were deaf that he mirrored after Landon. What makes me even more of a fan of Tim Green is he calls reading "weightlighting for the brain." It not only makes you a better student but a "better, kinder" person. |
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June 2021
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