52 pages • 1 hour read
Sooley
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Book Brief
368
Novel • Fiction
United States • Contemporary
2021
Adult
18+ years
Super Short Summary
Sooley by John Grisham follows Samuel Sooleymon, a teen basketball prodigy from South Sudan separated from his family by civil war, as he navigates his dreams of NBA stardom amid personal and global turmoil. The narrative juxtaposes Samuel's burgeoning career in America with his family's struggles in a Ugandan refugee camp. The story underscores global inequality, the refugee crisis, and the perils accompanying sudden fame. The text includes depictions of death by overdose, racist stereotypes, and brief moments of war and violence.
Inspirational
Emotional
Challenging
Hopeful
Bittersweet
Reviews & Readership
108,408 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
John Grisham's Sooley offers a compelling tale of determination and resilience through the journey of a young Sudanese basketball prodigy. Positively, readers commend its emotional depth and strong character development. On the downside, some feel the plot can be predictable and a bit stretched. Overall, it's a heartfelt and engaging read despite minor pacing issues.
Who Should Read Sooley?
A reader who enjoys sports dramas, inspirational underdog stories, and emotional journeys will find Sooley by John Grisham compelling. Fans of books like Friday Night Lights by H.G. Bissinger or Hoosiers by Jack and Bobby Knight will appreciate the blend of athletic ambition and personal struggle.
108,408 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
368
Novel • Fiction
United States • Contemporary
2021
Adult
18+ years
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