The Blind Side

My new favorite book! This is a great book not only because of the story itself, but because of the author. Read the book even if you have already seen the movie. The book goes into a lot more detail and is more interesting. I also like this book because it is true, and actually happened. Even if you don't like football, or any sports at all, this is still a great book.

This book follows the life of Michael Oher. Until he became famous for his phenomenal athletic ability in high school, he was a no body. He almost never went to school. His GPA started with a 0, it was 0.6 at the beginning of his freshman year in high school. He lived in the worst part of Memphis Tennessee, in a place called "Hurt Village," along with various other practically homeless people trying to survive. To make things worse, his mom was a drug addict, and spent what money she could get on drugs and alcohol. He had the most hopeless childhood imaginable. But now he is making millions as a star player in the NFL. This is the story of how that all happened.

One of the strong themes, or lessons that I got from this book is that miracles can happen. Anything is possible. But you also need to put forth effort if you want something to happen. Michael started with a 0.6 GPA and finished with a 2.58 GPA. He had a personal tutor and studied everyday for at least 4 hours, then went to football practice. It is a miracle that he even got good enough grades to make it to college. When he was about 15, he probably had no hope of a decent career, or future. Although he overcame all odds to play in the NFL, it would have been almost impossible without help, which leads us to the next theme.

"Give someone a hand, and you both climb higher." This is a great quote, and it is what my next theme is about. If it weren't for the Tuohy family (The family that adopted Michael) Michael would probably still be hopelessly living on the streets without a home, and no one would have even known about him or his ability. Everyone has a gift, and sometimes we need others to help us share it, or use it, or find it if we haven't already. Michael played basketball, but never even thought about playing football. The Tuohy's helped him find and utilize his football skills. He was also extremely talented in the discus throw and shot put, without even really practicing. Michael Oher was a talented athlete who needed help, and when he got it, he grew upon his talents, and now he is in the NFL.

Michael Oher's story gives hope to all of us. It is one of the greatest sports stories ever put down on paper. I hope you read this inspiring book, I would recommend it to anyone and everyone.