BOOK REVIEW: The Middle School Rules of Charles Tillman by Sean Jensen

BLURB:

Over a dozen seasons, Charles Tillman established himself as the greatest cornerback in the storied history of the Chicago Bears. A two-time Pro Bowl selection, Tillman has been distinguished as one of the NFL's most opportunistic defensive backs, intercepting 36 passes and forcing 42 fumbles—the most in the league since his rookie year in 2003. In fact, he popularized the “Peanut Punch,” a nod to his childhood nickname and a tribute to his knack for jarring a football from the grasp of an offensive player.

But even more than his acclaim on the field, Tillman is highly regarded off the field. With his father serving in the United States Army, Tillman attended 11 different schools domestically and internationally. Lightly recruited out of Copperas Cove High School in Texas, Tillman was offered a single Division 1-A scholarship, but he shined at the University of Louisiana at Lafayette and was selected by the Bears in the second round of the NFL Draft.

In 2005, Tillman and his wife Jackie established the Cornerstone Foundation, a nonprofit organization that provides resources and opportunities to children in need. Tillman was a 2012 finalist for the NFL Players Association's Byron White Man of the Year award, and he was the 2013 winner of the prestigious Walter Payton Man of the Year award, which “recognizes a player's off-the-field community service as well as his playing excellence.”

The Middle School Rules of Charles Tillman will feature the defining childhood stories of a young, well-traveled boy nicknamed “Peanut,” who had to deal with racism, adapt to constant relocation, and endure the divorce of his parents. Inspired by faith and family, Tillman persevered and carved out an indelible mark both on and off the field. 

REVIEW BY: Arianna, age 12 years, 10 months

MAY CONTAIN SPOILER:

This book was great! 

My favorite person was Duck because he is super responsible and takes care of his brother. My favorite part is when they don't go with those boys with the fireworks. They were responsible and didn't get into trouble. 

I recommend this book for anyone looking for a good person, football player, and role model. 

I give this book 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 10 and up. 

This book's publishing date is November 1, 2015.