Overview: This book does a great dive into the world of youth athletics, and the increasing pressures placed on children in sport. It specifically looks into the role that parents play, and explores the fine line between encouraging children to reach their potential, or living vicariously through their children’s accomplishments. The book gives compelling yet disturbing accounts of children who were pushed by their parents and/or coaches to compete through serious injuries, and how these experiences had lifelong psychological effects. The author of this book also describes his own journey of when he realized that he went “too far” in pushing his son in his baseball career. We think this book is a must read for all parents who have children that participate in sports, regardless of the level. Our take home message? The best athletes come from supportive childhood environments, where they are encouraged to explore their interests, and not specialize too early. Let kids be kids.

Goodreads Link: https://www.goodreads.com/en/book/show/6202526