The book "is so many other things that football might come third or fourth on the list. It is unflinching American history, it is cultural anthropology and it is a riveting morality play. Probably most of all it is a love story of the finest kind because it hurts all over and it mercilessly pits one kind of love against another in a genuine blood sport. John Ed Bradley has gathered a fine and believable cast of characters to tell a tough story, but above all Rodney Boulet stands as one of the most authentically, uncomfortably honest adolescent males I have read in quite some time."

– Chris Lynch, author of the National Book Award Finalist Inexcusable

"John Ed Bradley skillfully shines a beam of humanity through the prism of the game, revealing to us the full spectrum of its colors, from love to hate, bigotry to tolerance, and devotion to betrayal. Anyone who ever played high school football or loved someone who has should read this book."

– Tim Green, author of Unstoppable

"Recommend to fans of Patricia McKissack or Kristin Levine."

– School Library Journal

“This engaging story shines a spotlight on the complexities and tension of racial integration...the author's history as a football player really shines...readers will connect with Rodney as he struggles to resolve his feelings.”

– Booklist

* "With its tense but subtle plot trajectory structured by Rodney’s progress through high school, the novel adds nuance to the difficult American conversation on race with its honest examination of how a white youth, who sees himself on the vanguard of racial tolerance, is hit with his own limits when it comes to his beloved sister’s interracial romance. This compelling tale will foster both engaged group discussion and serious personal reflection."

– Bulletin, starred review

"This heartbreaking story is as moving as it is poignant. Bradley forces the reader to examine deeper issues than racial tolerance.... This is a very well written tale that delves into an important issue."

– VOYA