Redemption: A Rebellious Spirit, a Praying Mother, and the Unlikely Path to Olympic Gold
Bryan Clay with Joel Kilpatrick
Thomas Nelson, 2012, 224 pp., $24.99
Running for My Life: One Lost Boy’s Journey from the Killing Fields of Sudan to the Olympic Games
Lopez Lomong with Mark Tabb
Thomas Nelson, 2012, 240 pp., $24.99
Men of Sunday: How Faith Guides the Players, Coaches & Wives of the NFL
Curtis Eichelberger
Thomas Nelson, 2012, 236 pp., $15.99
Starting and Closing
John Smoltz with Don Yaeger
William Morrow, 2012, 304 pp., $26.99
For the readers out there, the summer heat begs for a cool spot and a good book. With the activity of the athletic world in full swing, there are a few that you might like to consider to extend the summer excitement. You might also find something you can share with your youth group that will encourage and inspire.
In Men of Sunday, Curtis Eichelberger writes in journalistic style, revealing many of the thoughts and practices of faith-guided coaches, players and staff members. While at times the approach leans more toward making a persuasive point about faith and football, readers will appreciate the snapshots given from some of their most-beloved players and coaches.
For an insider’s perspective on the struggles and mindset of professional athletes, John Smoltz delivers in his unique style in Starting and Closing. He tells his story the way he likes to tell it—as if reading from a journal and skipping to various parts of the story. In the end, you’ll see how he has applied what he has learned from faith and baseball to living everyday life.
Knowing that Bryan Clay ends up an Olympic medalist offers little hope as you struggle with him on his chaotic journey to success in Redemption. You will find yourself cheering as his life transitions to a genuinely committed athlete and, most importantly, follower of Jesus Christ. The way he describes his faith, family and athletic life coming together will encourage every reader who desires to pursue Christ faithfully.
Running for My Life is a fast-paced, inspirational story that you won’t want to miss. Lopez Lomong writes in way that gives the reader a unique opportunity to experience all the sensations and emotions of a Lost Boy of Sudan literally running for his life, as well as the heart of a man running for something bigger than himself. Not only will you come away with a clearer perspective of the struggle of these Lost Boys, but you also will be overwhelmed by the providence and faithfulness of God.
Whether it’s off season, a number being retired, the end of a journey or the excitement of the 2012 Olympics, you can find a resource here that will be just what you need to give you fresh focus and motivation for the road ahead. If you had to choose just one, I’d suggest going for the gold!
