Rating: 
Summary: Must read for any student-athlete
Review: As a former student-athlete I knew that stuff like this went on. But I had no idea the extreame lengths that "Grown-ups" will go to move themselves one more rung up the ladder at the expense of our children. We are concerned for our children. We try to tell them to stay away from drugs, crime, violence, bad influence, but we are blind to the gross misconduct of people in positions of trust and authority, especially if it means a scholarship. There is nothing of value that a person can learn from a school if the "Grown-ups" that nurture them in those tender years teach them through example to be corrupt or corruptible people. Derek Sparks is a walking talking example of someone who fought against all odds to become his own man. This is a must-read for any and all aspiring student-athletes. -Konrad Pimiskern
Rating:
Summary: Superior Strength and Encouragement
Review: As I started reading, I became a part of Derek's world and began to understand his experiences as a young teen. I felt his emotions through the words as he guided me on this roller coaster of a life. It amazed me to see that even at his lowest point, he still had the faith and believed enough in himself to continue and succeed. It took superior strength to overcome the obstacles he faced. I admire that in him. He encourages us all to take the next step and not give up on our dreams. You don't have to be an athlete to learn from Derek. You just have to believe you can accomplish anything you set your mind to, just like he did.
Rating:
Summary: Superior Strength and Encouragement
Review: As I started reading, I became a part of Derek's world and began to understand his experiences as a young teen. I felt his emotions through the words as he guided me on this roller coaster of a life. It amazed me to see that even at his lowest point, he still had the faith and believed enough in himself to continue and succeed. It took superior strength to overcome the obstacles he faced. I admire that in him. He encourages us all to take the next step and not give up on our dreams. You don't have to be an athlete to learn from Derek. You just have to believe you can accomplish anything you set your mind to, just like he did.
Rating: 
Summary: How true is it?
Review: Hello,
I just finished this book and found it very interesting being as how i just finished my first season as a high school quarterback, and i have many of the same aspirations to do what he dreamed of doing. I was wondering though how much of a sugarcoat was put on derek in this book. it played out looking like everyone else were the bad guys. I wondered if one of the so called bad guys were to write a book stating his side who would you belive. But anyhow it was an exelent book and i encourage every one to give this book a try!!!
Rating:
Summary: One of my favorites!
Review: I became a fan of Derek Sparks after hearing him speak at the YMCA Apple Cup Rally Benefit Dinner. He was amazing! Today, a month later, I can still feel the power of the GAMETIME message. I am 33 years old and Derek helped me examine myself and my life . I have a renewed spirit and confidence in the days ahead. I applaud Derek for his work with youth and his courage to make a difference. His life story is sad and heart wrenching, but at the same time refreshing to know that we all can survive the Lessons of Life and live to tell the good news.
Rating:
Summary: EYE OPENING
Review: I discovered this book from an article about it in thenewspaper and thought it sounded interesting. I bought it, read it,and passed it on to my "athletic" 12 year old son. We bothloved it and feel it sends a great message to youth today. Well worth anyone's time!
Rating:
Summary: EYE OPENING
Review: I discovered this book from an article about it in thenewspaper and thought it sounded interesting. I bought it, read it,and passed it on to my "athletic" 12 year old son. We bothloved it and feel it sends a great message to youth today. Well worth anyone's time!
Rating:
Summary: Lessons...hit me like a FREIGHT TRAIN!
Review: I must admit that this story hit me like a freight trian. I would never have guessed that the adults who are supposed to educate, train, and coach our children are the same people who use them as pawns in a sick game. I am glad that I read Lessons of the Game, I feel that it is an important read; one that needs to be told. The way some of these athletes are treated, though, is very sad. This book is now off to my father-in-law, and then to my wife, and finally to my dad. I'm sure that everyone will have a strong opinion of this story.
Rating:
Summary: Insightful and very helpful to anyone who follows sports
Review: I was very moved by Lessons of the Game and what Derek Sparks had to say. As a first time author, I think he is a very good writer. It encouraging to see athletes prosper off the field. I look forward to reading his next book. It was very brave of him to step up to the plate and deliver. I could not put this book down when I started to read it. As a parent I was concerned by the things that go on under the table. Lessons of the Game will be a required reading in my house hold. Thank you Derek for your sincere care for our youth. Guy Thomas
Rating:
Summary: How true is it?
Review: I would highly recommend this book for all young athletes who aspire to compete at a higher level. It is an excellent example of how a young athlete can be convinced he is immune to the rules of the game. As a former high school athlete and coach it also serves as a warning for parents and coaches on how their own behavior can have devasting effects on a young athlete's career and life.
| 
