JImmy Lee Hickman was labeled as a nobody from the time he was born. He was poor, from a bad family and Jimmy himself did not feel like he had a shot at life. It is amazing what one or two positive people can do to change the trajectory of a life. Jimmy crossed paths with a coach and teacher who motivated, inspired and mentored. This is the best book I've read this year. Great read for a book club, or yourself.

I like a book with redemption. In this book the characters got what they deserved, by and large. It was a feel-good story where your underdog favorite comes out on top.

Excellent coming-of-age story about a young man growing up in one of the poorest areas of Ohio in the early 1970's. Yocum creates well developed characters that the reader cares about. I highly recommend this title and can't wait to read the rest of Yocum's titles.

A must read novel!