Another book from Michael Lewis (Moneyball) this time looking at the changes in American football through the story of Michael Oher. Once a homeless unloved boy and now a multi millionaire NFL player thanks in part to his rare physical attributes (he's huge, and quick) and the generosity of a wealthy christian family that took him in.
The book isn't quite as enjoyable as Moneyball, it lacks that books feeling of David taking on Goliath by thinking harder and working smarter. Sure Michael Oher had none of the chances in life that many children take for granted, but as soon as he was taken in by the family it wasn't him taking on the world.....it was that wealthy, white, influential christian family taking on society. In other words is was the establishment looking after its own.
There can be no doubting that this family changed this boys life. But had he not been a future athlete (something which was apparent very early on) would the family have helped him as much. If he were a short fat kid would he have even been noticed in his plight. How many other children don't get taken in by a family with a private jet?
Maybe I'm being a touch cynical though. As I did enjoy the book and think that once again Michael Lewis has found a fascinating angle on a very public story.
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