42 pages • 1 hour read
Million Dollar Throw
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Book Brief
272
Novel • Fiction
Massachusetts • Contemporary
2009
Middle grade
10-14 years
960L
Super Short Summary
Million-Dollar Throw, by Mike Lupica, follows 13-year-old quarterback Nate Brodie, who is dealing with his father’s unemployment, his family’s financial struggles, and his best friend Abby’s degenerative eye illness. Despite these challenges, Nate wins the opportunity to make a million-dollar throw during a Patriots game, which becomes the central focus of his journey to reclaim his confidence and precision in football. The novel touches on sensitive topics, including visual impairment and financial stress.
Inspirational
Emotional
Hopeful
Contemplative
Bittersweet
Reviews & Readership
9,432 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Mike Lupica's Million Dollar Throw is praised for its inspirational themes and realistic portrayal of young athletes' dreams and challenges. The narrative captivates middle-school readers, though some critics note the plot's predictability and occasional lack of depth in character development. Overall, it's a heartwarming read for sports enthusiasts.
Who Should Read Million Dollar Throw?
Readers who enjoy sports novels and coming-of-age stories will appreciate Mike Lupica's Million Dollar Throw, comparable to The Crossover by Kwame Alexander and Maniac Magee by Jerry Spinelli. It's perfect for middle schoolers and teens who are fans of football and tales of perseverance and personal growth.
9,432 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Abby McCall
Abby McCall
Abby is Nate’s best friend and neighbor, known for her determination and optimism despite facing a degenerative eye disease.
Mom
Mom
Nate’s mom is a supportive figure who takes on multiple jobs after Nate’s dad loses his lucrative career, always encouraging Nate despite her own worries.
Dad
Dad
Nate’s dad shares a close bond with him through their mutual love of football, though their relationship becomes strained after he loses his job.
Coach Rivers
Coach Rivers
Coach Rivers is Nate’s football coach and a positive male role model who continually encourages Nate and helps him through challenges on the team.
272
Novel • Fiction
Massachusetts • Contemporary
2009
Middle grade
10-14 years
960L
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