Part 1, Chapter 1 Summary

Mick Johnson's earliest memory is of playing football with his father when he was four. Mick's father Mike is bigger and stronger than any of his friend's fathers, who lay on the couch all day. Mick's father, though a former football star, is still very much in shape. The Johnson family basement is full of his father's awards and framed newspaper articles. Mick's mother is a former gymnast who enjoys competition, but doesn't feel the need to pressure Mick the way her husband Mike does.

Part 1, Chapter 1 Analysis

Mick's life becomes football at an early age between his father's past and his father's desire to see Mick play. Mick also wants to be something important like his father was, and he notices that whereas his friends' fathers lay around, his father is strong and active. This seems to confirm in Mick's...