TL;DR
In 'Million-Dollar Throw', Nate Brodie faces immense pressure as he prepares to make a life-changing throw at a Patriots game while grappling with personal challenges, including his family's financial struggles and his best friend's impending blindness.
What is Million-Dollar Throw about
'Million-Dollar Throw' by Mike Lupica is a gripping sports novel centered around 13-year-old Nate Brodie, a talented football player and ardent Tom Brady fan. Nate wins the opportunity to throw a football through a target at a New England Patriots game for a chance to win a million dollars. However, his excitement is overshadowed by the harsh realities of his life: his father has lost his job, putting their home at risk, and his best friend Abby is losing her sight. The story deftly weaves together themes of friendship, perseverance, and the pressure of expectations as Nate practices tirelessly to make the most important throw of his life amidst these challenges.
Million-Dollar Throw 7 Key Takeaways
Nate wins the chance for a million-dollar throw at a Patriots game.
Nate, a skilled quarterback, gets the opportunity of a lifetime: to throw a pass through a target during a Patriots game for a million-dollar prize. This moment represents not just a financial opportunity, but a chance to prove himself.
Nate struggles with personal pressures and his diminishing confidence.
As Nate prepares for the throw, he faces immense pressure from his family's financial troubles and his own doubts. His father's job loss and the potential loss of their home weigh heavily on him, leading to a decline in his throwing ability just when he needs it most.
Nate's friendship with Abby becomes a source of inspiration.
Abby, who is Nate's best friend, is dealing with her own struggles—she is going blind. Despite her situation, she remains a beacon of strength for Nate, inspiring him to push through his challenges.
Nate practices intensively to overcome his fears.
Determined to succeed, Nate commits to nightly practices, often staying up late to ensure he can make the throw. This dedication reflects his desire to not only win the money but also to support his friend Abby.
The climax at the Patriots game brings ultimate tension.
As Nate stands before the crowd, the pressure peaks. In a moment that captures the essence of the story, he channels his determination and love for Abby to make the throw that could change everything.
Nate successfully makes the million-dollar throw.
In a dramatic conclusion, Nate throws the ball through the target, winning the million dollars. This victory not only fulfills his dream but also allows him to help Abby get the surgery she desperately needs.
The resolution emphasizes themes of hope and friendship.
The story ends on a hopeful note, showcasing the enduring bond between Nate and Abby, and highlighting how their friendship has been a source of strength throughout their struggles.
Top Million-Dollar Throw Quotes
- 'Sometimes, the most important throws are the ones we make for the people we love.'
- 'Pressure is just an opportunity to show what you're made of.'
- 'In the end, it’s not about the million dollars, but the lives we touch along the way.'
Who should read Million-Dollar Throw?
'Million-Dollar Throw' is perfect for young readers, especially those interested in sports and personal growth. The book resonates with themes of friendship, resilience, and overcoming challenges, providing inspiration and enjoyment for all ages.
Million-Dollar Throw Best Reviews
- 'Lupica's football action engages, and his delineation of the athlete's thought process and emotional highs and lows of competition feels visceral and real.' – Kirkus Reviews
- 'Lupica explores the themes of believing in yourself and handling pressure. Teens who love sports fiction... will find this book a rapid, enjoyable read.' – VOYA
- 'A natural for graduates of Matt Christopher's sports stories.' – Booklist
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Million-Dollar Throw FAQs
What is the reading level of 'Million-Dollar Throw'?
The book 'Million-Dollar Throw' is suitable for middle school readers, with a Lexile level of 960, making it accessible for young teens and avid readers.
What happens at the end of 'Million-Dollar Throw'?
Nate successfully makes the million-dollar throw during the Patriots game, and he uses part of the money to help Abby get surgery that saves her sight.
What is the main conflict in 'Million-Dollar Throw'?
The main conflict revolves around Nate's struggle to overcome personal pressures, including the challenge of making the crucial throw while dealing with his family's financial difficulties and his best friend's eyesight loss.