A Most Beautiful Thing: The True Story of America's First All-Black High School Rowing Team

Arshay Cooper is the central figure and author of A Most Beautiful Thing, where he shares his experiences as a member of the rowing team at Manley Career Academy. He is initially hesitant to join the team due to his unfamiliarity with the sport and his self-doubt, and Cooper’s narrative unfolds with the encouragement of his best friend, Preston. When he serves as the team captain in 1998 and 1999, Cooper’s character development and unwavering determination become evident. Despite facing challenges such as financial constraints, limited resources, and personal setbacks, Cooper emerges as the most dedicated rower. His unyielding commitment leads to remarkable accomplishments, including triumphing in two citywide indoor rowing championships and reaching the rank of 35th in the nation for his distance and age group.

Linda, Arshay Cooper’s mother, assumes a crucial role in shaping his narrative. She is initially depicted as battling severe drug and alcohol addiction, and that struggle results in Linda neglecting her parental responsibilities. Consequently, Cooper’s childhood is marked by instability and moments of desolation as he grapples with the absence of a nurturing maternal figure. However, the trajectory of Linda’s journey takes a turn when she seeks help in a Christian-based recovery home.