Nathan's Journal


Fiction - Sports
222 Pages
Reviewed on 04/03/2024
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    Book Review

Reviewed by K.C. Finn for Readers' Favorite

Nathan's Journal is a work of fiction in the sports, interpersonal drama, and action genres. It is best suited to the general adult and mature teen reading audiences. Penned by author Thom Ring, the plot follows the journey of Nathan Fears, a high school football player whose dreams are shattered after sustaining a brain injury during a tackle. As Nathan navigates the challenges of rehabilitation, he grapples with the loss of his identity and the uncertainty of his future in football. Despite facing resistance from those around him, Nathan remains determined to return to the field and fulfill his dreams of playing in college. Through his journal entries, Nathan reflects on his progress, his setbacks, and the profound insights he gains along the way.

Author Thom Ring utilizes every scrap of honesty, emotion, and creativity to craft a poignant and thought-provoking novel about expectations versus harsh reality. I was impressed with the strong yet subtle portrayal of emotional turmoil. The resilience of the protagonist as he confronts the harsh realities of life after the injury is a powerful journey that Ring manages with great pacing, balance, and realism. Nathan's journey is both heart-wrenching and inspiring, offering an exploration of identity, perseverance, and the transformative power of adversity, but it’s always focused on him as a person and the themes gently build around him for the overall impact of the message. As I followed Nathan's progress through his journal entries, I couldn't help but feel deeply invested in his story and root for his success against all odds thanks to the earnest writing style. Overall, Nathan’s Journal beautifully illustrates the complexities of recovery and self-discovery, leaving a lasting impact on readers long after the final page.