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Strong Like You
I haven’t cried one time since you disappeared. Not even at football practice when Paton Roper told the whole team you were probably dead.
He said, “You know how sometimes a dog gets sick or bites somebody and you have to put it down?”
Somebody said, “Yep.”
“That’s probably what happened to Walker’s daddy.”
Walker Lauderdale hasn’t cried once since his daddy went missing. And even though everyone says he’s dead, Walker won’t give up hope. He knows his father is out there, somewhere, cutting a wild trail through the Ozarks like always. But when a relative threatens to kick Walker and his momma out of the family home, Walker realizes he has no choice but to look for his daddy—a search that leads him straight to a drug-addled and dangerous man named Lukas Fisher. While attempting to balance life as a normal fifteen-year-old boy and star player on the football team, Walker begins a desperate search across the hills of the Ozarks for the man who, for better or worse, taught him everything he knows about strength.
He said, “You know how sometimes a dog gets sick or bites somebody and you have to put it down?”
Somebody said, “Yep.”
“That’s probably what happened to Walker’s daddy.”
Walker Lauderdale hasn’t cried once since his daddy went missing. And even though everyone says he’s dead, Walker won’t give up hope. He knows his father is out there, somewhere, cutting a wild trail through the Ozarks like always. But when a relative threatens to kick Walker and his momma out of the family home, Walker realizes he has no choice but to look for his daddy—a search that leads him straight to a drug-addled and dangerous man named Lukas Fisher. While attempting to balance life as a normal fifteen-year-old boy and star player on the football team, Walker begins a desperate search across the hills of the Ozarks for the man who, for better or worse, taught him everything he knows about strength.
224 pages, Paperback
Published March 12, 2024
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 40 reviews
October 27, 2023
The ache and search for lost fathers drives this stirring addition to the contemporary literature of the Ozarks. Simpson offers an unflinching yet hopeful tale of hard-knock youth driven to the edge by their inherited and tragic lessons of what makes a man.
January 1, 2024
Strong Like You tells a story of a son who looks up to his father, and I thought that's the only thing I'd found in this book. Not that I'm complaining, in fact it's what I look for in a YA realistic fiction and the reason why I was intrigued after reading the blurb. But surprisingly it takes me to a rollercoaster ride of emotion as well as whodunnit mystery. This debut novel offers more than it appears to be.
I really enjoyed Walker's voice and how he addresses his father as 'you', like poems. The way he delivers his story is also page-turner. It deals with heavy themes such as toxic masculinity, crime, possession of guns, poverty, and death, but it's told from a fifteen-year-old's eyes that's realistic but not dumbed down. I'm glad Walker has people who helps him in many aspects so that he could grow up and face the problem as a boy he wants to be deep in his heart. The story started rather dark and angsty, but in the end it was heartwarming and hopeful. I think the dark blue and orange in the cover represent that vibe well.
I loved that the characters are rounded, even the 'villain' ones. As for villains... I legit did not expect there would be a PLOT TWIST. I'd be okay if it ends hanging since I thought it only focuses on Walker's responses to everything happened to him, but for me the mystery takes it to the next level. It gives the ending more satisfaction. Oh, the ending. Sometimes realistic fiction still gives HEA ending especially with the love interest, but this one stick to the 'realistic' part pretty well. Walker's relationship with his mom, Coach Widner, Mr. Raines, Sawyer, even Paton and Chloe Ennis taught him valuable lessons that we all can relate. It was also few of YA novels I've read that takes place in Arkansas so I learned something new.
If there are things that I wanted more, first of all is physical description of characters. Walker and his dad is pretty easy to imagine since they're on the cover, and sometimes names could tell which race and ethnicity they are. But I wanted confirmation so I didn't mistake them as another race or ethnicity even though it's only in my head. Or it's maybe because I'm used to specific description of skintone to depict each individual. Walker sure has amazing development, but few weeks are too fast especially for a teenager. His view on masculinity switches rather quick from always referring his dad to interpreting new meaning by himself. IMHO it'd be more convincing if the timeline takes longer.
We still need many important YA books and I'm glad I can read one of them again. Perfect for fans of realistic fiction with minimal romance and more family issue. The pub date is next March so thank you Netgalley and Flux for providing me digital ARC in exchange for an honest review.
I really enjoyed Walker's voice and how he addresses his father as 'you', like poems. The way he delivers his story is also page-turner. It deals with heavy themes such as toxic masculinity, crime, possession of guns, poverty, and death, but it's told from a fifteen-year-old's eyes that's realistic but not dumbed down. I'm glad Walker has people who helps him in many aspects so that he could grow up and face the problem as a boy he wants to be deep in his heart. The story started rather dark and angsty, but in the end it was heartwarming and hopeful. I think the dark blue and orange in the cover represent that vibe well.
I loved that the characters are rounded, even the 'villain' ones. As for villains... I legit did not expect there would be a PLOT TWIST. I'd be okay if it ends hanging since I thought it only focuses on Walker's responses to everything happened to him, but for me the mystery takes it to the next level. It gives the ending more satisfaction. Oh, the ending. Sometimes realistic fiction still gives HEA ending especially with the love interest, but this one stick to the 'realistic' part pretty well. Walker's relationship with his mom, Coach Widner, Mr. Raines, Sawyer, even Paton and Chloe Ennis taught him valuable lessons that we all can relate. It was also few of YA novels I've read that takes place in Arkansas so I learned something new.
If there are things that I wanted more, first of all is physical description of characters. Walker and his dad is pretty easy to imagine since they're on the cover, and sometimes names could tell which race and ethnicity they are. But I wanted confirmation so I didn't mistake them as another race or ethnicity even though it's only in my head. Or it's maybe because I'm used to specific description of skintone to depict each individual. Walker sure has amazing development, but few weeks are too fast especially for a teenager. His view on masculinity switches rather quick from always referring his dad to interpreting new meaning by himself. IMHO it'd be more convincing if the timeline takes longer.
We still need many important YA books and I'm glad I can read one of them again. Perfect for fans of realistic fiction with minimal romance and more family issue. The pub date is next March so thank you Netgalley and Flux for providing me digital ARC in exchange for an honest review.
January 18, 2024
“You used to say it is what it is. And I used to believe that. But I think something else now. It is what you make it. You learn better than you were taught. Or you don’t. There is nothing else.”
Off the bat, I want to say that it takes a lot to pull my focus into a contemporary book. As a die-hard spec fic fan, I usually need some sort of explosion or ghost or elaborate world to get me hooked. But from my first glance at STRONG LIKE YOU, I knew I’d be yanked in. The unique voice, setting, and characters caught me, and Simpson’s honesty kept me.
STRONG LIKE YOU refuses to sugar-coat, which is refreshing for the reluctant reader genre that’s often ‘toned down’, as if these readers can’t hear the condescension. In stark contrast, STRONG LIKE YOU doesn't lie or skirt reality. It’s honest in its depictions of poverty, of substance use, of painful families, and even of the uncomfortable realities of being in high school. Still, I refuse to call STRONG LIKE YOU ‘brutally honest’; the plot is straight-forward in the best way, avoiding unnecessary shock value or glorification that would only cheapen its truth. Like Walker learns, a brutal environment doesn’t have to lead to a brutal story. Against the intrigue of Walker’s missing father, STRONG LIKE YOU also manages to slowly present so many examples of not just strength, but of masculinity beyond toxicity. There are no saviours, and no perfect people, and frankly not even any purely evil antagonists. Everyone has a story and a motive. STRONG LIKE YOU embraces those confusing nuances we learn as teenagers without over-hammering the point.
STRONG LIKE YOU would have done a number on me if I read it in high school. I’m so happy to know that this book exists for the angry boys who can’t see a way out, and who are tired of being talked down to about their own lives. Simpson never forgets who he's writing for.
Thanks to Flux and NetGalley for letting me read!
Off the bat, I want to say that it takes a lot to pull my focus into a contemporary book. As a die-hard spec fic fan, I usually need some sort of explosion or ghost or elaborate world to get me hooked. But from my first glance at STRONG LIKE YOU, I knew I’d be yanked in. The unique voice, setting, and characters caught me, and Simpson’s honesty kept me.
STRONG LIKE YOU refuses to sugar-coat, which is refreshing for the reluctant reader genre that’s often ‘toned down’, as if these readers can’t hear the condescension. In stark contrast, STRONG LIKE YOU doesn't lie or skirt reality. It’s honest in its depictions of poverty, of substance use, of painful families, and even of the uncomfortable realities of being in high school. Still, I refuse to call STRONG LIKE YOU ‘brutally honest’; the plot is straight-forward in the best way, avoiding unnecessary shock value or glorification that would only cheapen its truth. Like Walker learns, a brutal environment doesn’t have to lead to a brutal story. Against the intrigue of Walker’s missing father, STRONG LIKE YOU also manages to slowly present so many examples of not just strength, but of masculinity beyond toxicity. There are no saviours, and no perfect people, and frankly not even any purely evil antagonists. Everyone has a story and a motive. STRONG LIKE YOU embraces those confusing nuances we learn as teenagers without over-hammering the point.
STRONG LIKE YOU would have done a number on me if I read it in high school. I’m so happy to know that this book exists for the angry boys who can’t see a way out, and who are tired of being talked down to about their own lives. Simpson never forgets who he's writing for.
Thanks to Flux and NetGalley for letting me read!
December 7, 2023
Thank you to NetGalley and Flux for providing an e-ARC of this novel. This will be published 3/12/2024
“It is what you make it. You learn better than you were taught. Or you don’t. There is nothing else.”
🏈
Walker Lauderdale has a big reputation in his small town in the Ozarks. He’s known as one of “those boys”—Hank Lauderdale’s son, poor as dirt, dumb as rocks, and as rotten as his father. But when Walker’s dad goes missing, his world is turned upside down. Though he still has football, he knows he needs to find his dad and bring him back to get everything back to the way it was. But as he starts looking into his father’s disappearance, he realizes it is going to take strength to face the truth.
🚲
I am NOT a football person, but this is seriously a must-read, especially for high school boys. Simpson does an outstanding job exploring the idea of masculinity, and how powerful different mentors (parents, teachers, coaches, & counselors) can be for shaping identity. Throughout the entire novel, Walker struggles with who his father has told him he is, and if he can change. This has some pretty intense scenes & language, but is overall such a gripping story about family and strength. I definitely recommend this to high school librarians!!
Fun fact: I am trying to hit the gym more (like Walker’s mom in the story!) and I made it so I could only read this while at the gym—I went to the gym everyday this week so I could finish this story! It’s SOOO good!!
“It is what you make it. You learn better than you were taught. Or you don’t. There is nothing else.”
🏈
Walker Lauderdale has a big reputation in his small town in the Ozarks. He’s known as one of “those boys”—Hank Lauderdale’s son, poor as dirt, dumb as rocks, and as rotten as his father. But when Walker’s dad goes missing, his world is turned upside down. Though he still has football, he knows he needs to find his dad and bring him back to get everything back to the way it was. But as he starts looking into his father’s disappearance, he realizes it is going to take strength to face the truth.
🚲
I am NOT a football person, but this is seriously a must-read, especially for high school boys. Simpson does an outstanding job exploring the idea of masculinity, and how powerful different mentors (parents, teachers, coaches, & counselors) can be for shaping identity. Throughout the entire novel, Walker struggles with who his father has told him he is, and if he can change. This has some pretty intense scenes & language, but is overall such a gripping story about family and strength. I definitely recommend this to high school librarians!!
Fun fact: I am trying to hit the gym more (like Walker’s mom in the story!) and I made it so I could only read this while at the gym—I went to the gym everyday this week so I could finish this story! It’s SOOO good!!
March 6, 2024
★ ★ ★ ★ 1/2 (rounded up)
This originally appeared at The Irresponsible Reader.
---
WHAT'S STRONG LIKE YOU ABOUT?
Walker Lauderdale is a high school sophomore and a starter for his small Arkansas high school's football team. He and his cousin/best friend/might as well be brother Sawyer are fierce players for the defense (and we see that almost instantly). This should be the best time in his young life—but there's something wrong.
His dad has been missing for a month. He's not there to watch his first game. He's not there to burst with pride, to offer advice, or to cheer from the stands. He's just...gone. Walker's dad and Sawyer's dad (also best friends and teammates on the same high school team before marrying sisters) took off one night and haven't returned. The two boys are certain they'll be back any time—they're frequently checking the bleachers to see their fathers up there.
The book is an extended monologue—or a series of them. Technically, an apostrophe, but let's stick with monologue. Walker is addressing his father—catching him up on the turmoil and victories he's missing, the hurt Walker feels because of his absence, and how he's trying to make things work until his dad comes back. The grief, loss, and anger jump off the page.
Walker's dad isn't a great one, either, it should be stressed. Rarely employed, his income is largely illegal and irregular. Both missing fathers are abusive to their wives and sons. But in the way that we all can recognize, the boys are just that much more devoted to them because of it—making their dads proud is a chief aim of theirs.
Walker becomes determined to go look for his dad—which involves starting with the man his dad and uncle were last seen with—a truly frightening and violent man. Sawyer tries to dissuade him, but that just makes Walker even more certain that he needs to act.
But does he truly want to find the answers he's seeking?
LEARNING ABOUT GUNS
Walker—like so many people in the U.S.—appreciates guns. He's quick to grab a pellet gun to (try to) chase away his uncle. But his cousin Sawyer? Sawyer is a nut for guns, he has magazines about them all over his room. At some point, Sawyer comes across a pistol (and somehow gets money for many bullets for it—or at least acquires them). There's a big difference between a pellet gun and a Colt 1911, and it doesn't take long for Walker to start learning about them.
Not what you learn in video games/TV, not what Sawyer's survival mags teach, or anything like that. But about the reality of them—how they can invite violence, how holding one affects you, what destruction they can bring even without trying. There's no pro-/anti- gun message at work here. No lessons or sermons were delivered. But the reality of what a gun can do to a person, a situation, or an attitude is presented in stark reality. I'd say it's easily one of the best things about this book, but if I started listing the best things about this book, we'd be here for a long time.
ANGER
Walker and Sawyer are angry young men—it's simmering right below the surface, and comes out at inopportune times. Although, it does sometimes come out when it should*—and we see an example of that in the opening minutes of their first game of the year.
* Arguably, anyway. Their coach and teammates would say it's appropriate.
There are plenty of reasons for them to be so angry—even before their fathers abandoned them. The more time you spend with them—Walker in particular—you see just how many reasons he has. It's part of what his parents have passed down to him, part of the example they've set and the environment he's been raised in.
The guy his father and uncle runs with, Lukas Fisher, has another kind of anger inside him—and he doesn't hesitate to express it—where Walker's parents shape him by their anger, Lukas "trains" his pit bull with his.* While we can see a little constructive use of anger, we can see some people who are angry due to circumstance and situations—but Lukas? He seems to revel in it, maybe even feeds on anger.
* This is off-point, but Simpson's description of the dog's barking was both wonderfully accurate and a bit of a tension breaker.
But back to Walker, it's his anger that lands him in weekly sessions with the school counselor before the book begins. This counselor is one of the few who seem to look beyond Walker's attitude, his anger, his disinterest in education, and his abilities on the football field. It's unclear how Walker will respond to him—or even if he can respond to this man appropriately. But it's a rare example of how his anger just might put him in the right place.
THE MEANING OF MANHOOD/STRENGTH
Walker's primary concern at the beginning of the book is to be strong—strong, as the title says, like his dad. For him, strength equals control. Control over your life, your circumstances, your choices—it's also tied into how to fix things. How to make things better.
Yes, it absolutely is about physical strength first and foremost, but it's about more than that, too. For a character presented as not that intelligent (Walker would say worse than that about himself), he's really perceptive. He's spent more time than many—probably even he—realizes thinking about the nature of strength.
Ultimately, this is what being a man is for Walker (and Sawyer, too)—maybe even Hank and Rufus, too. Walker sees Hank as strong—physically, emotionally, and mentally. This is what he aspires to—for himself, for his mother, and possibly even for Hank. If Walker gets to be strong enough—on and off the football field—he can make Hank and his mom proud. He can make their lives better, fixing those things that need fixing (that his father never gets around to fixing, despite Walker's deep-seated conviction that he could and will).
Over the course of this book, this understanding of what manhood means and what strength means are seen in light of that anger mentioned above. One of the bigger questions of the novel surrounds Walker and Sawyer—as they navigate toward adulthood/maturity, what will win out? Strength or anger? What kind of men will they be?
THE LOVE STORY
Okay...after a few attempts, I realize that I cannot say anything about this without a spoiler. All I will say is that it's perfectly conceived, perfectly executed, and just what this book needed it to be.
SO, WHAT DID I THINK ABOUT STRONG LIKE YOU?
I have several more things I wanted to talk about—but this is too long, and almost two days behind schedule (it's at least 6 hours after I normally post something). What's worse, every time I start writing "just one more thing," I think of two more. So I'm bringing this in for a landing, and I may bounce around a little bit here.
I do not even like football—why do I keep reading books featuring it? Okay, I live in the USA and it's pretty hard to escape, that's a large part of it, but still... There's a large part of me that doesn't care as long as it's a book like this one. And sure, he's talking about a different game entirely, but Walker would agree with Dani Rojas—"Football is life!" He thinks in football terms and metaphors, he can't explain to someone why he loves football—he can't even understand why that person doesn't like football, it's like telling him that they don't like to breathe. Most of the time, Simpson doesn't have Walker or Sawyer tell us this, they just live this. The way he does this alone tells me that Simpson is someone to watch (or, I suppose, he thinks the same way as Walker does and it's coming out organically—but I don't think so)
I really should spend a lot of time talking about Walker's guidance counselor and the arc of their relationship, there's so much about Simpson's work here that should be commended. There's also this strange little tangent featuring a recent graduate of Walker's high school and his little sisters that tells us more about Walker than anything except his attitude toward football—who he really is, not who he thinks he needs to be.
You don't have to read very far before you know a couple of things—1. despite his conviction—or at least the conviction he voices—things are not going to go the way he anticipates, and that rough times are ahead for Walker; and 2. you are not going to want to put this book down until you reach the last page. I glanced at the first couple of pages to make sure it downloaded correctly and had to walk away from my Kindle, because I had multiple other deadlines and I knew if I didn't do that, I'd finish the book before I did anything else. I can't describe it, but there's something about Walker's voice, the way he's talking to that father that isn't there that just grabs you.
I'm not entirely satisfied with the way the novel ended. I liked the resolution to the various stories, let me be clear. But I feel like I could see Simpson's not-so-Invisible Hand working to get some of the resolutions to work out the way they did. I like the way the storylines ended up, so I'm not going to complain too much. And since it was only in the closing pages that I thought about maybe criticizing something in the book, Simpson earned a little authorial heavy-handedness.
This is a real winner—Strong Like You shares so much DNA with Eli Cranor's Don't Know Tough (but is not a copy in any way) and even hearkens back to Early Autumn by Robert B. Parker. And anytime a book can make me compare it favorably with those two knockouts, I'm going to put it down as pure joy.
If you're someone who gets hung up on the YA tag, push "Pause" on that for 224 pages. This is a book that deserves a fair shake and many, many readers—Simpson's debut is as strong as Walker hopes to be.
Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book from North Star Editions via NetGalley—thanks to both for this.
This originally appeared at The Irresponsible Reader.
---
WHAT'S STRONG LIKE YOU ABOUT?
Walker Lauderdale is a high school sophomore and a starter for his small Arkansas high school's football team. He and his cousin/best friend/might as well be brother Sawyer are fierce players for the defense (and we see that almost instantly). This should be the best time in his young life—but there's something wrong.
His dad has been missing for a month. He's not there to watch his first game. He's not there to burst with pride, to offer advice, or to cheer from the stands. He's just...gone. Walker's dad and Sawyer's dad (also best friends and teammates on the same high school team before marrying sisters) took off one night and haven't returned. The two boys are certain they'll be back any time—they're frequently checking the bleachers to see their fathers up there.
The book is an extended monologue—or a series of them. Technically, an apostrophe, but let's stick with monologue. Walker is addressing his father—catching him up on the turmoil and victories he's missing, the hurt Walker feels because of his absence, and how he's trying to make things work until his dad comes back. The grief, loss, and anger jump off the page.
Walker's dad isn't a great one, either, it should be stressed. Rarely employed, his income is largely illegal and irregular. Both missing fathers are abusive to their wives and sons. But in the way that we all can recognize, the boys are just that much more devoted to them because of it—making their dads proud is a chief aim of theirs.
Walker becomes determined to go look for his dad—which involves starting with the man his dad and uncle were last seen with—a truly frightening and violent man. Sawyer tries to dissuade him, but that just makes Walker even more certain that he needs to act.
But does he truly want to find the answers he's seeking?
LEARNING ABOUT GUNS
Walker—like so many people in the U.S.—appreciates guns. He's quick to grab a pellet gun to (try to) chase away his uncle. But his cousin Sawyer? Sawyer is a nut for guns, he has magazines about them all over his room. At some point, Sawyer comes across a pistol (and somehow gets money for many bullets for it—or at least acquires them). There's a big difference between a pellet gun and a Colt 1911, and it doesn't take long for Walker to start learning about them.
Not what you learn in video games/TV, not what Sawyer's survival mags teach, or anything like that. But about the reality of them—how they can invite violence, how holding one affects you, what destruction they can bring even without trying. There's no pro-/anti- gun message at work here. No lessons or sermons were delivered. But the reality of what a gun can do to a person, a situation, or an attitude is presented in stark reality. I'd say it's easily one of the best things about this book, but if I started listing the best things about this book, we'd be here for a long time.
ANGER
Walker and Sawyer are angry young men—it's simmering right below the surface, and comes out at inopportune times. Although, it does sometimes come out when it should*—and we see an example of that in the opening minutes of their first game of the year.
* Arguably, anyway. Their coach and teammates would say it's appropriate.
There are plenty of reasons for them to be so angry—even before their fathers abandoned them. The more time you spend with them—Walker in particular—you see just how many reasons he has. It's part of what his parents have passed down to him, part of the example they've set and the environment he's been raised in.
The guy his father and uncle runs with, Lukas Fisher, has another kind of anger inside him—and he doesn't hesitate to express it—where Walker's parents shape him by their anger, Lukas "trains" his pit bull with his.* While we can see a little constructive use of anger, we can see some people who are angry due to circumstance and situations—but Lukas? He seems to revel in it, maybe even feeds on anger.
* This is off-point, but Simpson's description of the dog's barking was both wonderfully accurate and a bit of a tension breaker.
But back to Walker, it's his anger that lands him in weekly sessions with the school counselor before the book begins. This counselor is one of the few who seem to look beyond Walker's attitude, his anger, his disinterest in education, and his abilities on the football field. It's unclear how Walker will respond to him—or even if he can respond to this man appropriately. But it's a rare example of how his anger just might put him in the right place.
THE MEANING OF MANHOOD/STRENGTH
Walker's primary concern at the beginning of the book is to be strong—strong, as the title says, like his dad. For him, strength equals control. Control over your life, your circumstances, your choices—it's also tied into how to fix things. How to make things better.
Yes, it absolutely is about physical strength first and foremost, but it's about more than that, too. For a character presented as not that intelligent (Walker would say worse than that about himself), he's really perceptive. He's spent more time than many—probably even he—realizes thinking about the nature of strength.
Ultimately, this is what being a man is for Walker (and Sawyer, too)—maybe even Hank and Rufus, too. Walker sees Hank as strong—physically, emotionally, and mentally. This is what he aspires to—for himself, for his mother, and possibly even for Hank. If Walker gets to be strong enough—on and off the football field—he can make Hank and his mom proud. He can make their lives better, fixing those things that need fixing (that his father never gets around to fixing, despite Walker's deep-seated conviction that he could and will).
Over the course of this book, this understanding of what manhood means and what strength means are seen in light of that anger mentioned above. One of the bigger questions of the novel surrounds Walker and Sawyer—as they navigate toward adulthood/maturity, what will win out? Strength or anger? What kind of men will they be?
THE LOVE STORY
Okay...after a few attempts, I realize that I cannot say anything about this without a spoiler. All I will say is that it's perfectly conceived, perfectly executed, and just what this book needed it to be.
SO, WHAT DID I THINK ABOUT STRONG LIKE YOU?
I have several more things I wanted to talk about—but this is too long, and almost two days behind schedule (it's at least 6 hours after I normally post something). What's worse, every time I start writing "just one more thing," I think of two more. So I'm bringing this in for a landing, and I may bounce around a little bit here.
I do not even like football—why do I keep reading books featuring it? Okay, I live in the USA and it's pretty hard to escape, that's a large part of it, but still... There's a large part of me that doesn't care as long as it's a book like this one. And sure, he's talking about a different game entirely, but Walker would agree with Dani Rojas—"Football is life!" He thinks in football terms and metaphors, he can't explain to someone why he loves football—he can't even understand why that person doesn't like football, it's like telling him that they don't like to breathe. Most of the time, Simpson doesn't have Walker or Sawyer tell us this, they just live this. The way he does this alone tells me that Simpson is someone to watch (or, I suppose, he thinks the same way as Walker does and it's coming out organically—but I don't think so)
I really should spend a lot of time talking about Walker's guidance counselor and the arc of their relationship, there's so much about Simpson's work here that should be commended. There's also this strange little tangent featuring a recent graduate of Walker's high school and his little sisters that tells us more about Walker than anything except his attitude toward football—who he really is, not who he thinks he needs to be.
You don't have to read very far before you know a couple of things—1. despite his conviction—or at least the conviction he voices—things are not going to go the way he anticipates, and that rough times are ahead for Walker; and 2. you are not going to want to put this book down until you reach the last page. I glanced at the first couple of pages to make sure it downloaded correctly and had to walk away from my Kindle, because I had multiple other deadlines and I knew if I didn't do that, I'd finish the book before I did anything else. I can't describe it, but there's something about Walker's voice, the way he's talking to that father that isn't there that just grabs you.
I'm not entirely satisfied with the way the novel ended. I liked the resolution to the various stories, let me be clear. But I feel like I could see Simpson's not-so-Invisible Hand working to get some of the resolutions to work out the way they did. I like the way the storylines ended up, so I'm not going to complain too much. And since it was only in the closing pages that I thought about maybe criticizing something in the book, Simpson earned a little authorial heavy-handedness.
This is a real winner—Strong Like You shares so much DNA with Eli Cranor's Don't Know Tough (but is not a copy in any way) and even hearkens back to Early Autumn by Robert B. Parker. And anytime a book can make me compare it favorably with those two knockouts, I'm going to put it down as pure joy.
If you're someone who gets hung up on the YA tag, push "Pause" on that for 224 pages. This is a book that deserves a fair shake and many, many readers—Simpson's debut is as strong as Walker hopes to be.
Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book from North Star Editions via NetGalley—thanks to both for this.
March 24, 2024
“You used to say it is what it is.
And I used to believe that.
But I think something else now.
It is what you make it. You learn better than you were taught. Or you don’t. There is nothing else.”
Strong Like You is a powerful coming-of-age story told in the Ozarks. 15-year-old Walker Lauderdale’s father has gone missing. Aside from juggling a somewhat normal teenage life and being a star linebacker on the football team, Walker has no choice but to search for his father, as well as answers— after a relative threatens to kick him and his mother out of their house.
First off, I found addressing his missing father as “you” throughout the narrative an interesting and excellent choice. Like several other readers, I could not put this book down. I say that with little interest in football or sports fiction, but this book was different in a million ways more than one. While football relates to several themes in the book, it does not take away the main focus. In fact, two of my favorite themes in this story include finding the true definition of strength, and how life is what you make it out to be.
I loved Walker’s journey into learning what it truly meant to be strong by himself and with the help of fantastic side and background characters. Walker is not your average kid, he is struggling with poverty and the effects of abuse. Simpson’s writing does not sugarcoat that. Instead, his style gives a sweet kind of honesty that makes every change/scene in the story serve its intended purpose. And it’s so subtle yet distinctive how the characters are painted, not just as human and real as they are, but more incredibly complex to a point you understand there’s no black and white— which is what I enjoyed the most about this book. We can see the worst sides come from Walker and some of the other characters, yet also the good, or at least in some cases, the reasoning behind their actions. Fear. Anger. Greed.
Walker’s father was not perfect. Neither was Wyatt or Lukas Fisher. However, they were not surrounded by supportive people like Walker, which made it harder for them to believe they could change something without resorting to violence or anger. This is why I found the portrayal of the cycle of abuse, as well as breaking it, to be incredibly well-written and accurate too.
I also thoroughly enjoyed Walker's character development. I loved how his mindset began to change when he got closer to Coach Widner, Mr. Raines, and Chloe. Chloe’s last scene with Walker was absolutely perfect! You can see Walker’s growth, and I wouldn’t have asked for anything else.
Overall, this book deserves five stars. I can see it making a huge impact on anyone, regardless if you’ve grown up in a similar situation or love football. I most definitely would recommend everyone to pick up this book. There are plenty of important quotes and lessons that can be taken away.
And I used to believe that.
But I think something else now.
It is what you make it. You learn better than you were taught. Or you don’t. There is nothing else.”
Strong Like You is a powerful coming-of-age story told in the Ozarks. 15-year-old Walker Lauderdale’s father has gone missing. Aside from juggling a somewhat normal teenage life and being a star linebacker on the football team, Walker has no choice but to search for his father, as well as answers— after a relative threatens to kick him and his mother out of their house.
First off, I found addressing his missing father as “you” throughout the narrative an interesting and excellent choice. Like several other readers, I could not put this book down. I say that with little interest in football or sports fiction, but this book was different in a million ways more than one. While football relates to several themes in the book, it does not take away the main focus. In fact, two of my favorite themes in this story include finding the true definition of strength, and how life is what you make it out to be.
I loved Walker’s journey into learning what it truly meant to be strong by himself and with the help of fantastic side and background characters. Walker is not your average kid, he is struggling with poverty and the effects of abuse. Simpson’s writing does not sugarcoat that. Instead, his style gives a sweet kind of honesty that makes every change/scene in the story serve its intended purpose. And it’s so subtle yet distinctive how the characters are painted, not just as human and real as they are, but more incredibly complex to a point you understand there’s no black and white— which is what I enjoyed the most about this book. We can see the worst sides come from Walker and some of the other characters, yet also the good, or at least in some cases, the reasoning behind their actions. Fear. Anger. Greed.
Walker’s father was not perfect. Neither was Wyatt or Lukas Fisher. However, they were not surrounded by supportive people like Walker, which made it harder for them to believe they could change something without resorting to violence or anger. This is why I found the portrayal of the cycle of abuse, as well as breaking it, to be incredibly well-written and accurate too.
I also thoroughly enjoyed Walker's character development. I loved how his mindset began to change when he got closer to Coach Widner, Mr. Raines, and Chloe. Chloe’s last scene with Walker was absolutely perfect! You can see Walker’s growth, and I wouldn’t have asked for anything else.
Overall, this book deserves five stars. I can see it making a huge impact on anyone, regardless if you’ve grown up in a similar situation or love football. I most definitely would recommend everyone to pick up this book. There are plenty of important quotes and lessons that can be taken away.
January 31, 2024
STRONG LIKE YOU, TL Simpson's debut, takes you by the throat and refuses to let you go, long after you've finished reading.
STRONG LIKE YOU follows the story of 15-year-old Walker, a local football star whose father goes missing. Most people don't care about it though. See, Walker's dad was a fuckup. Everyone knows it. They say his disappearance is a problem solving itself and everyone from the police, to teachers, even his own family are quick to dismiss the case, but Walker refuses to let it go. He takes it upon himself to find out what happened to his dad, and to find out who knows more than they're willing to say. Told in second-person perspective, with Walker narrating to his father, we get an up-close and personal view into poverty in the Ozarks, the sad and human lengths to which people will go when they're desperate, and how modern expectations of manhood can be a detriment to all.
The comparisons to Friday Night Lights are well-founded with football being a metaphor for a lot against the backdrop for Walker's story. Football is strength, football is capitalism, football is America. Walker's self-worth is reflected in how well he can play on the field, and in doing so how desperately he wants to connect with his father because of it. His sensitivity and kindness are seen as a detriment to people like his father though, and his severe lack of confidence comes out in his insecurities off the field. He's an incredibly deep character, and one you can't help but root for.
The Ozarks is a character onto itself in the story, akin to grittier--perhaps not quite as violent--shows like True Detective, and like the lowland lakes, Walker's voice really sticks with you. The prose gets in the folds of your brain and haunts you for days after.
I could go on about this story, but you should honestly read it for yourself.
STRONG LIKE YOU follows the story of 15-year-old Walker, a local football star whose father goes missing. Most people don't care about it though. See, Walker's dad was a fuckup. Everyone knows it. They say his disappearance is a problem solving itself and everyone from the police, to teachers, even his own family are quick to dismiss the case, but Walker refuses to let it go. He takes it upon himself to find out what happened to his dad, and to find out who knows more than they're willing to say. Told in second-person perspective, with Walker narrating to his father, we get an up-close and personal view into poverty in the Ozarks, the sad and human lengths to which people will go when they're desperate, and how modern expectations of manhood can be a detriment to all.
The comparisons to Friday Night Lights are well-founded with football being a metaphor for a lot against the backdrop for Walker's story. Football is strength, football is capitalism, football is America. Walker's self-worth is reflected in how well he can play on the field, and in doing so how desperately he wants to connect with his father because of it. His sensitivity and kindness are seen as a detriment to people like his father though, and his severe lack of confidence comes out in his insecurities off the field. He's an incredibly deep character, and one you can't help but root for.
The Ozarks is a character onto itself in the story, akin to grittier--perhaps not quite as violent--shows like True Detective, and like the lowland lakes, Walker's voice really sticks with you. The prose gets in the folds of your brain and haunts you for days after.
I could go on about this story, but you should honestly read it for yourself.
February 26, 2024
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Strong Like You by T.L. Simpson
This book basically reads like a thought letter to a missing father. Walker’s dad Hank is missing. Along with his uncle, Rufus, Sawyer’s dad. Walker and Sawyer are best friends, just like Hank and Rufus. Walker struggles to handle the fact that his father is missing.
At first this book was hard for me to read because Walker would be talking about what’s going on and then all of a sudden, right in the middle, he would start addressing his thoughts to his dad in second person. I finally got the hang of the layout of the book. It’s unfortunate that Hank wasn’t a great guy, and Walker idolizes this man. But as we continue through the story and gain more insight into Walker’s thoughts, we notice that he does struggle with his father’s definition of a “strong man” and what real men are and are not supposed to be or do. Luckily his coach takes a deep interest in him and his life and he begins to see what being a real man really means.
Because of a poor decision on the first day of school, Walker has to spend time with his counselor. He is encouraged to write his thoughts down. Every now and then we get to “see” what he writes and I think the way in which this is done makes it much more meaningful. Same for his English class bell ringers. Unique.
It took a while for this book to pick up. The first half was a bit slow and redundant. Then he starts to find out the mystery surrounding his father and learn what being strong really means and the story gets a whole lot better.
This is a pretty strong book that would probably be of interest to teen boys.
Thank you to NetGalley, the author, and the publisher for providing me with an ARC of this title in exchange for an honest review.
This book basically reads like a thought letter to a missing father. Walker’s dad Hank is missing. Along with his uncle, Rufus, Sawyer’s dad. Walker and Sawyer are best friends, just like Hank and Rufus. Walker struggles to handle the fact that his father is missing.
At first this book was hard for me to read because Walker would be talking about what’s going on and then all of a sudden, right in the middle, he would start addressing his thoughts to his dad in second person. I finally got the hang of the layout of the book. It’s unfortunate that Hank wasn’t a great guy, and Walker idolizes this man. But as we continue through the story and gain more insight into Walker’s thoughts, we notice that he does struggle with his father’s definition of a “strong man” and what real men are and are not supposed to be or do. Luckily his coach takes a deep interest in him and his life and he begins to see what being a real man really means.
Because of a poor decision on the first day of school, Walker has to spend time with his counselor. He is encouraged to write his thoughts down. Every now and then we get to “see” what he writes and I think the way in which this is done makes it much more meaningful. Same for his English class bell ringers. Unique.
It took a while for this book to pick up. The first half was a bit slow and redundant. Then he starts to find out the mystery surrounding his father and learn what being strong really means and the story gets a whole lot better.
This is a pretty strong book that would probably be of interest to teen boys.
Thank you to NetGalley, the author, and the publisher for providing me with an ARC of this title in exchange for an honest review.
October 31, 2023
I was lucky enough to snag an early copy of this book (I’m glad because I couldn’t have waited) and I am blown away. STRONG LIKE YOU is everything I needed to read. In this Ozarks-based novel, author Travis Simpson nails the very essence, the true-grit, and the very atmosphere of the South. Simpson certainly isn’t trying to paint a pretty picture and I appreciate that because life isn’t always pretty (especially for main character Walker Lauderdale, his family, community, and friend group).
This is truly the kind of story that I believe will bring young readers (specifically young men) to the reading table. It’s raw, it’s engaging, and it’s a much needed telling of characters that seem so real that you feel like you know them.
Be ready to simultaneously fall in love with Walker and his inner circle and have your heart torn out by all their hardship. The fifteen-year-old protagonist in this book has gone through far more heartbreak than his fair share, but still manages to push onward. Sure, he has his flaws but he consistently remains someone you want to root for from beginning to end.
STRONG LIKE YOU is a must read for 2024. If it isn’t already on your TBR list, add it!
Please tell me that there are future works in the pipeline from this talented author. The world needs more. Hell, I need more.
This is truly the kind of story that I believe will bring young readers (specifically young men) to the reading table. It’s raw, it’s engaging, and it’s a much needed telling of characters that seem so real that you feel like you know them.
Be ready to simultaneously fall in love with Walker and his inner circle and have your heart torn out by all their hardship. The fifteen-year-old protagonist in this book has gone through far more heartbreak than his fair share, but still manages to push onward. Sure, he has his flaws but he consistently remains someone you want to root for from beginning to end.
STRONG LIKE YOU is a must read for 2024. If it isn’t already on your TBR list, add it!
Please tell me that there are future works in the pipeline from this talented author. The world needs more. Hell, I need more.
January 2, 2024
This is such a powerful book! It is centered on Walker, and his cousin Sawyer, whose flawed, but still loved fathers have both disappeared. Their determination to find out what happened to them, leads these two teenage boys on an investigation fraught with danger. But this book is so much more than the mystery surrounding the disappearances. It is a stark tale of the realities of the world in which Walker and Sawyer live, with its crushing poverty, constant hunger, bullying and abuse. Their only bright spot is playing high school football. T.L. Simpson has written a poignant, at times heartbreaking story of the world many young people face, with just a glimmer of hope and redemption. The character of Walker is one I will long remember. This is a totally immersive book that I found hard to put down! Thank you to the author, publisher and Netgalley for my advance copy. The opinions of this review are my own.
January 14, 2024
It's official; I'm a T.L. Simpson fan! I received an ARC of his debut YA novel and had not heard of this author before. I devoured STRONG LIKE YOU and provided a blurb for the publisher. My thoughts are below:
"A resounding, powerful novel from a fresh voice in YA fiction. Sparse, poetic prose tells the story of Walker Lauderdale, an embattled teen living in the Ozarks, trying to be strong like his missing father. Wrapped in grit and danger, the story's exploration of strength is transformative and inspiring. Strong Like You tore out my heart and put it back together again. If you read nothing else this year, read this beautiful book."
Yep, that sums up my thoughts. Add it to your TBR pile, pre-order, and hand it to teen boys, but everyone can truly enjoy this book. It would also make a good read-aloud in classrooms. Bravo, and congrats, Mr. Simpson!
"A resounding, powerful novel from a fresh voice in YA fiction. Sparse, poetic prose tells the story of Walker Lauderdale, an embattled teen living in the Ozarks, trying to be strong like his missing father. Wrapped in grit and danger, the story's exploration of strength is transformative and inspiring. Strong Like You tore out my heart and put it back together again. If you read nothing else this year, read this beautiful book."
Yep, that sums up my thoughts. Add it to your TBR pile, pre-order, and hand it to teen boys, but everyone can truly enjoy this book. It would also make a good read-aloud in classrooms. Bravo, and congrats, Mr. Simpson!
February 9, 2024
This book gripped me from beginning to end! It is a stark look at the life of two teenage cousins, Walker and Sawyer, living in extreme poverty. Both of their fathers have disappeared, and they embark on their own dangerous investigation to find them. The mystery of their disappearance, however, is just part of their story. T. L. Simpson takes you to the world of teenagers living on the edge in a world of poverty, hunger, bullying and abuse. The only bright spot for either of the boys' lives is their weekly football game and practices. This book is quite an eye-opening look at the world of young people and the struggles many encounter just to survive. It is heartbreaking at times, but always with a bit of hope. It is a book that was hard to put down! My wife did receive an advance copy of this book, and I am very glad she did. The opinions of my review are my own.
January 31, 2024
Walker's father has disappeared and though everyone thinks his dad is dead, Walker doesn't believe it. His family lives in a little town in the Ozarks, and dad has not done a good job providing for his family,--Walker is always hungry--, but Walker remembers the good times, and is sure his dad would be there to support him as he plays football. When dad doesn't show, Walker decides to find him. When Walker's football coach steps in to help his mom Walker is resentful, but he eventually accepts that dad is dead and life can be better for him. Positive endings and the story raises awareness of the difficulties some children are forced to live with. Thanks to NetGalley for an arc and no pressure for a positive review.
March 24, 2024
I overall enjoyed this book. I think it would be a great read for teenage boys especially. Walker has to deal with a lot of hard things especially for being only a sophomore in high school. I love the just raw vulnerability of each of T.L. Simpson’s characters. Chapter 44 got me to tearing up because one of my favorite people in the world was affected the same way Mr. Raines is when I was in elementary school. It brought out brought out all those heavy emotions because my grandpa was one of the strongest people I ever knew. I am glad to see that the author brought a happy & bittersweet ending to the story because Walker needed that in his life.
I am just don’t care for the use of some of the language.
I am just don’t care for the use of some of the language.
January 25, 2024
Strong Like You is an absolute emotional gut punch of a debut. The voice is so strong, the message so elegantly delivered, and Walker (the MC) and the supporting cast of characters so excellently portrayed. This is a beautiful story that has something to say to all young readers, male and female alike, about what it really means to be strong and the importance of walking that path, no matter how difficult it may be.
I want to thank NetGalley, the publisher, and the author for offering an ARC in return of an honest review. And I can say without a doubt, I will be recommending this story to everyone.
I want to thank NetGalley, the publisher, and the author for offering an ARC in return of an honest review. And I can say without a doubt, I will be recommending this story to everyone.
March 13, 2024
Southern Murder Mystery
I was cautiously optimistic about this book. In the first few chapters, details around Chloe, Walker's accent, fictional town names and trying to place a location within the geography of the real towns named and placing when this was all taking place were a touch bothersome.
But I could not stop reading. It was captivating. I wanted to know more with every chapter and the details (right through the acknowledgements for this knowing reader) were doled out with excellent literary timing.
I hope to see more books from T. L. Simpson in the coming years.
I was cautiously optimistic about this book. In the first few chapters, details around Chloe, Walker's accent, fictional town names and trying to place a location within the geography of the real towns named and placing when this was all taking place were a touch bothersome.
But I could not stop reading. It was captivating. I wanted to know more with every chapter and the details (right through the acknowledgements for this knowing reader) were doled out with excellent literary timing.
I hope to see more books from T. L. Simpson in the coming years.
March 18, 2024
This book was so good!! I finished it in one sitting. I tried to put it down but couldn't stop thinking about the characters and just HAD to finish it that night. The author captures these characters and this region perfectly. I could picture all of it happening as I read it. There's so much wisdom sneakily sprinkled in as the reader follows Walker's journey of growth. I cried multiple times and I'm really not a big crier. This is one you will want your significant other/best friend/co-worker, etc. to read so you guys can discuss. It's haunting and beautiful and stays with you for days. I absolutely love this book!
March 22, 2024
This novel is excellent. It's a well-written account told in second-person POV, which is unusual for a YA novel, but I can't imagine Walker's story told any other way. His unique voice, plus his handwritten poems and classwork, add personality to this book.
Addressing his missing father, Walker talks about what it means to be strong as he navigates the hardships in his life, many of them heartbreaking.
Football is a big deal to Walker, and while I'm not a football fan, I wasn't lost during the football discussions.
I would recommend this book to readers aged 11 and up who enjoy a good story with character growth, strong storytelling, and authentic dialogue.
Addressing his missing father, Walker talks about what it means to be strong as he navigates the hardships in his life, many of them heartbreaking.
Football is a big deal to Walker, and while I'm not a football fan, I wasn't lost during the football discussions.
I would recommend this book to readers aged 11 and up who enjoy a good story with character growth, strong storytelling, and authentic dialogue.
April 7, 2024
This… is a damn good book. One that I’ll heartily recommend to folks. One that I’ll ask my sons to read. One that I’ll encourage high school teachers to consider.
“Makes me wonder who you might have been if even one person had stood up to you. If even one person had stood up for you.”
Those words echo in my head, well after I close the book. It’s a story about coming of age in a harsh and unforgiving world. A story of poverty. A story of anger. A story of strength and vulnerability. A story about masculinity and family.
It’s good. It’s really good. I cried ugly tears for a good 15 minutes after finishing it.
“Makes me wonder who you might have been if even one person had stood up to you. If even one person had stood up for you.”
Those words echo in my head, well after I close the book. It’s a story about coming of age in a harsh and unforgiving world. A story of poverty. A story of anger. A story of strength and vulnerability. A story about masculinity and family.
It’s good. It’s really good. I cried ugly tears for a good 15 minutes after finishing it.
October 11, 2023
Walker's life has forever changed since his dad and his uncle went missing. Football used to be everything, but Walker and his cousin Sawyer can't stay focused until they find out what happened to their dads. When the outcome is worse than expected, the situation threatens to tear Walker and Sawyer apart.
This book incorporates football, poverty, anger, and mystery. I don't think it's necessarily the best writing, but I think the message is strong and it will appeal to reluctant readers.
I read an ARC from NetGalley.
This book incorporates football, poverty, anger, and mystery. I don't think it's necessarily the best writing, but I think the message is strong and it will appeal to reluctant readers.
I read an ARC from NetGalley.
January 18, 2024
Strong Like You is about Walker’s admiration for his father and he narrates this story as he tries to find his missing father. The description implies this read is also a mystery and a sports book, but the focus is predominantly on Walker’s grief without his father despite what the rest of the community has to say. Teens will relate to the poverty and the hopelessness, but the story itself is slow, with some unseen twists where everything wraps up too perfectly. My favorite part is the use of the handwritten bellwork assignments interwoven throughout the novel to express Walker’s true feelings.
April 19, 2024
Saying this is a must read for all ages feels too generic to say about this book but it's the truth!! I loved it as a boy mom and am absolutely sharing it with my 13 year old Jacoby! I enjoyed following the adventure and fell in love with Walker and Sawyer. I laughed, cried, and because the story is based where I live, I smiled along the way with the memories that came with it all of growing up here. Ypu just have to read this book and I sincerely hope a lot of young men do as well!! Thank you for the great journey Travis!!!
November 11, 2023
T.L Simpson's debut hooks in from the opening page. Filled with a ton of voice and the emotional journey of what it means to not just be a teen male, but one whose father is missing. I went in expecting a contemporary story revolving around high school football, and got so much more. It had the same vibes as Winter's Bone and cuts just as deep.
Thanks to Netgalley and the Publisher for an advanced copy.
Thanks to Netgalley and the Publisher for an advanced copy.
December 16, 2023
Simpson's story of one teen boy's struggle to find his missing father and survive poverty in the Ozarks left me hopeful, even after bringing me to tears. It is a poignant, and sometimes gut-wrenching, take on toxic masculinity and an incredibly engaging, entertaining mystery. Fifteen year-old Walker's struggles tore my soul open, and his huge heart--which he listens to, even without realizing it at times--brought hope to the center of this beautiful story.
January 28, 2024
Walker, a teen growing up in the Ozarks, is the main character looking for his father who goes missing. The story is told from the Walker’s point of view to his father. The story was a tad bit slow, but it does have an unexpected plot twist that was worth hanging on for.
TW: murder, violence, mentions of suicide, drug abuse
Thank you netgalley and flux for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
TW: murder, violence, mentions of suicide, drug abuse
Thank you netgalley and flux for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
October 11, 2023
The story can be related to many teenagers who will know what it’s like to have a parent, family member, friend and even just someone they know from places like school or a sports club go missing without warning and want to find them at whatever cost.
The storyline is good and the twist’s aren’t predictable. It’s well written
The storyline is good and the twist’s aren’t predictable. It’s well written
January 15, 2024
This story was really good. it touched based on men masculinity both good and toxic masculinity. It’s based on the main character Walker finding answers as to why his father would just disappear and leave him and his mother behind.Walker is in High School and on the football team so he is dealing with a lot while finding answers to his fathers disappearance.
March 12, 2024
This book will get you in all the feels. About a young man who is forced to deal with grown up issues that most grown ups never have to face. It’s about learning that there is more than one way to be strong and that some ways are much better than others. That having a good heart, a big heart, is not a weakness but may just be the strongest strong there is.
March 16, 2024
Feels familiar
Simpson captures the essence of growing up in Arkansas perfectly. As a fellow Arkansan, I recognized many of the landmarks and traditions down to the exit 101 beer runs. The importance of Friday night football countered against the backdrop of reality is striking. Reminded me in a good way of the feeling I got from reading “A Separate Peace” in high school.
Simpson captures the essence of growing up in Arkansas perfectly. As a fellow Arkansan, I recognized many of the landmarks and traditions down to the exit 101 beer runs. The importance of Friday night football countered against the backdrop of reality is striking. Reminded me in a good way of the feeling I got from reading “A Separate Peace” in high school.
November 26, 2023
E ARC provided by Netgalley
I'll read anything that is tangentially related to sports, but this ended up being too Young Adult for middle school due to language and situations. Interesting choice for high school readers.
I'll read anything that is tangentially related to sports, but this ended up being too Young Adult for middle school due to language and situations. Interesting choice for high school readers.
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