About This Book
A parent would reach for this book when their middle schooler is beginning to carry adult-sized burdens, such as worrying about the family's finances or supporting a friend through a health crisis. While on the surface it is a high-octane sports story about an eighth-grade quarterback with a shot at a million-dollar prize, the heart of the book lies in how young people handle overwhelming pressure. It addresses the anxiety of wanting to fix problems that are out of one's control, from a parent's job loss to a best friend's progressive blindness. Mike Lupica uses the familiar world of football to explore resilience and the importance of showing up for the people you love, even when the stakes are terrifyingly high. It is a perfect choice for kids who need to see that it is okay to feel the weight of the world, and that courage is found in the attempt, not just the result.
