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50 pages 1 hour read

Football Genius

Fiction | Novel | Middle Grade | Published in 2007

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Book Brief

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Tim Green

Football Genius

Fiction | Novel | Middle Grade | Published in 2007
Book Details
Pages

272

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Atlanta, Georgia • 2010s

Publication Year

2007

Audience

Middle grade

Recommended Reading Age

8-12 years

Lexile Level

800L

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Super Short Summary

In Tim Green's Football Genius, middle schooler Troy White discovers his uncanny ability to predict football plays, navigating conflicts on his high school team, dealing with his father's absence, and helping the NFL Falcons with his gift. He faces moral challenges, makes allies, and grows through his journey, ultimately balancing his childhood innocence and adult responsibilities.

Adventurous

Exciting

Heartwarming

Reviews & Readership

4.5

7,362 ratings

81%

Loved it

14%

Mixed feelings

5%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Tim Green's Football Genius scores high for its engaging story and relatable characters, making it a hit among young sports enthusiasts. However, some critics find the plot predictable and the football jargon potentially overwhelming for non-fans. Overall, it's an inspiring read for young athletes but might not capture the interest of a broader audience.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Football Genius?

Readers who enjoy Football Genius by Tim Green are middle-grade students, especially those passionate about sports and reading fast-paced, action-packed stories. Fans of Mike Lupica's Heat and Dan Gutman's Baseball Card Adventures series will likely appreciate the blend of athletic excitement and relatable, youthful protagonists.

4.5

7,362 ratings

81%

Loved it

14%

Mixed feelings

5%

Not a fan

Character List

Troy White

Troy is the main character who undergoes significant personal growth and interacts closely with both his family and the Atlanta Falcons football team. He is known for his loyalty and dealing with challenges involving his impulsive nature and rivalry with Jamie.

Tessa is Troy’s mother, working with the Falcons and serving as a supportive yet challenging figure in his life. Her actions and expectations push Troy to mature and become responsible.

Tate is one of Troy’s best friends and later becomes his romantic interest. She is supportive and confident, providing a steady presence for Troy as he navigates his journey into adulthood.

Seth acts as a mentor to Troy, guiding him both personally and in the world of football. Their relationship helps both of them deal with personal and professional challenges.

Coach Krock is the antagonist who challenges Troy with his views on football and life. A former player turned bitter due to injury, he embodies the physical and traditional aspects of the sport.

Gramp is Troy’s grandfather, offering a spiritual and wise perspective that helps Troy connect with his deeper sense of self and understand his family.

Jamie serves as Troy’s rival, fueling conflicts that highlight Troy's immature traits. He remains part of the child’s world, contrasting against Troy’s development.

Nathan is Troy’s friend who provides comic relief and support. He is less rebellious and more inclined to follow rules compared to Troy and Tate.

Book Details
Pages

272

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Atlanta, Georgia • 2010s

Publication Year

2007

Audience

Middle grade

Recommended Reading Age

8-12 years

Lexile Level

800L

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