Review of 4th & Long: A Gridiron Parable

[Raeesa Hoosen 1]

[Following is a volunteer review of "4th & Long: A Gridiron Parable" by Garrett M Stapleton.]

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4 out of 4 stars

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At some point in our lives, we often find ourselves harbouring feelings of void and helplessness. Lindsey Mann found her heart thrumming with dread one afternoon whilst she awaited the arrival of her beloved husband Paul, with her son Matthew. Matty was born with Down syndrome, yet the couple did not treat him any differently. Whilst Lindsey doted on Matty, Paul had the character of an overly protective father. Upon hearing the news of the demise of her husband, Lindsey pulls herself together and proceeds with the upbringing of Matty. After pulling a few strings, Matthew gets enrolled in the same school that Lindsey is teaching in. He knows that he is different but does not let the constant whispering, giggling, and stares affect him. But as a mother, Lindsey knows that there is a void in Matty's life and tries to fill it, by buying Matty a video game where Matty can be anyone that he wants to be, without being judged by others. On this journey of hardship and self-discovery, Lindsey meets the new coach Joe, and slowly feelings of attraction flutter in her heart. Not only is he able to win Lindsey's heart but he also becomes a father figure for Matty. On this journey of love, despair, and self-discovery, Matty will have to overcome many difficulties. So will Matty let his condition affect his life or will he overcome his fears and become a star quarterback from a mere waterboy?
Follow Matty and his story to find out what becomes of him in the end.

The novel was well-written and worth spending time on. The book may be fictitious, however, the scenes written depict the reality that kids with disabilities face whilst trying to fit in with their respective age groups.

There was absolutely nothing to dislike about the book. I admire the character of Lindsey and the way that she never gave up on her son and stood by his side every step of the way. Matty is an inspiration on his own, no matter what obstacle was thrown in his path, he overcame it.

I would rate this book 4 out of 4.The novel, 4th & Long: A Gridiron Parable, written by, Garrett M Stapleton, was a well-edited novel that showed professionalism in the author's writing.

The novel contains, love, despair, hope, and a bit of bullying, but it is one that I would strongly recommend to all those readers out there that is looking for a real page-turner.

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4th & Long: A Gridiron Parable
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