Chase Clark is just an average eighth grader, until he earns a spot on his high school varsity football team.
Life suddenly gets more interesting, especially because he gets to move up with his best friend Tripp. In Nathan Whitaker’s debut novel, “Snap Decision,” the New York Times best selling author takes readers into the world of middle school boys, whose main concern is getting a little playing time in the big games with the older guys.
No one knows the world of football like Whitaker. As a former kicker for Duke, Whitaker used his football knowledge and experience to collaborate with Tony Dungy and Tim Tebow on their best selling books. “Snap Decision” is a relatively light, refreshing read, especially for young readers who love the football. However, other themes — like, fitting in during school, friendship, loss, and honesty — make this a book that will appeal to girls as well. (Probably most appropriate for kids aged 8 and up.)
Though faith is mentioned in the book, its organic presentation weaves in and out of the story line. As in real life, some of the characters have an obvious faith, some don’t. Parents will like that the kids’ spirituality is a naturally occurring theme, and kids will like that it’s not preachy. The author does a great job of making the setting – Florida – come alive in all its muggy glory. In one scene, he also interestingly describes the behind the scenes goings-on of a professional football game. (Whitaker no doubt dipping into his personal history working for the Jacksonville Jaguars and Tampa Bay Buccaneers for this fun portion of the book.) Lastly, the book does a great job of touching on a much-discussed topic: concussions in football.
“Snap Decision” — a topical, enjoyable read for kids — hits the shelves July 1st and will be available at book stores everywhere.
Want to win your own copy of the book? Tweet @SixSeedsTV and tag @NathanWhitaker, using the hashtag #SnapDecision. We’ll pick a winner and alert you via Twitter.
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We’ll pick one winner from each location. Feel free to enter in both places.
Deadline July 8th.
Buy your own copy online here.
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