Review of "The Promise of Jesse Woods" by Chris Fabry

A coming-of-age story that bounces back and forth between the 70's and 80's, baseball aficionado Matt Plumley is challenged to find the depth of strength to stand up for what he believe in - and that life will not always turn out as expected.

The book opens with Matt and his family having just moved to Dogwood, West Virginia, where his dad (who grew up there) has been recently hired as the pastor of the local church. Matt quickly learns that not everyone in Dogwood is considered an "appropriate" candidate for his friendship. He also discovers that there are some severely prejudiced folks with a serious agenda that exert their control, not only over the area but eventually his father; and there will be some long term consequences rooted in that issue.

Dealing with some serious social and justice issues that still resonate today, The Promise of Jesse Woods is well-written and thought provoking. I am very glad to have read it and can definitely recommend it.

I was given a copy of this book from Tyndale House Publishers in exchange for my honest review.