“Life changes overnight for Coach John Harrison when his high school basketball team and state championship dreams are crushed under the weight of unexpected news. When the largest manufacturing plant shuts down and hundreds of families leave their town, John questions how he and his family will face an uncertain future. After reluctantly agreeing to coach cross-country, John and his wife, Amy, meet an aspiring athlete who’s pushing her limits on a journey toward discovery. Inspired by the words and prayers of a newfound friend, John becomes the least likely coach helping the least likely runner attempt the impossible in the biggest race of the year.”

 Overcomer by Chris Fabry

“What do you allow to define you?”

With the upcoming release of Overcomer – the movie – slated for later this month, I decided to read the book. Rarely does any book capture my attention like this one did. Even more rare does any book evoke an emotional response from me, as this one did.

It is difficult to write this review without spoilers, so I will only give my thoughts and impressions of the story and leave the reader to embrace the goodness and pursue their own journey of overcoming.

The Book is divided into 4 parts (The Coach, The Question, The Answer, and The Voice) that will take the reader through a year long journey of 4 distinct characters – John the Coach, Hannah Scott, Barbara Scott and T-Bone (aka Thomas Hill).  Through these rich and relatable characters, we are reminded that sometimes God’s plan for our life doesn’t always follow what we want for our life.

We are privileged to journey through this particular year as these characters come to terms with disappointment at the loss of what was, disillusionment of what is coming, apprehension and trepidation of our expectations of ourselves and our lives and the burdens we all carry, both real or self-imposed.

Do not be surprised when this book leaves you evaluating who you really are … and Whose they really are. It’s a decidedly emotional read, especially when you begin to see the Hand of God beginning to weave the lives, hearts and minds together.  A caution to the reader, as the story unfolds, keep the tissues nearby.

This book grabbed me from page one; I was disappointed to see it end.  It was difficult to put down. I am so looking forward to seeing the movie.

Quotes that hit my heart…

“Your identity will be tied to whatever you give your heart to” (pg 150)

“Something or someone will have first place in your heart” (pg 151)

“But when you find your identity in the One what created you, it will change your whole perspective” (pg 151)

 Overcomer – A Kendrick Brother Movie

Link to the Movie Site and Movie Trailer

https://www.overcomermovie.com