April: The Blind Side by Michael Lewis

Based on the true story of Leigh Anne and Sean Tuohy who take in a homeless, teenage, African-American, Michael “Big Mike” Oher. Michael has no idea who his father is and his mother is a drug addict. He no longer lives with his drug-addicted mother, but is in foster care when he isn’t running away to sleep wherever else he can find. Michael has had little formal education and few skills to help him learn. Leigh Anne soon takes charge however, as is her nature, ensuring that the young man has every opportunity to succeed. When he expresses an interest in football, she goes all out to help him, including giving the coach a few ideas on how best to use Michael's skills. The Tiohy’s not only provide him with a loving home, but hire a tutor to help him improve his grades to the point where he would qualify for an NCAA Division I athletic scholarship. At the same time, Oher’s presence in the Touhys’ lives leads them to some insightful self-discoveries of their own.

     Success in the classroom is, ultimately, vital for Michael’s future. For although his millions will come through his physical strength and his ability to protect the quarterback (American football’s most valuable position), the development of a professional sportsmen is inextricably intertwined with the education system. The condition of his being accepted by his high school was greater academic achievement; unless his grade point average reaches a certain level, he won’t be allowed to go to college—no matter how many coaches are desperate for him to play.