In order to complete my research paper on young gifted athletes and their struggle to remain focused and deal with outside distractions, I want to first finish a book or two that focuses on this idea. I think two books that would be good to start off with are The Jump by Ian O'Connor, and Hoop Dreams by Ben Jaravsky. The Jump chronicles the life of Sebastian Telfair, a Coney Island basketball prodigy who was recruited since the age of 13, and ended up making the jump straight from Lincoln High School to the NBA. To contrast his triumph, the story of William Gates and Arthur Agee's hardships in Chicago, and failure to succeed will help me understand both sides of the spectrum. So many athletes are given the talent and physical ability, but only few can make the best out of their opportunity because of the situation that surrounds them.

4th marking period

With basically the freedom to pick any topic to study for the final marking period, I unfortunately came to the realization that the only subject matter that could hold my attention is sports non fiction. My favorite books are those that chronicle gifted young athlete's through their teenage years. The subject that appeals to me most is young men growing up in the projects, and using basketball to fight their way out. This is the true struggle, and grabs my attention because, as shown by the books I will read, some make it and some don't. Gang violence, drugs, and school all play a part in so many young athlete's down falls. As I will read in "Hoop Dreams: The true story of hardship and triumph", judging who to trust once your name gains value also becomes crucial. It is a tough road, but as portrayed by Ian O'connor in "The Jump", entire cities root for their prodigy to make it out. When they do make it, it is a feel good story, but do not be fooled, many do not. For my research paper I will need to study the process of documenting these young athletes. It is a long and vigorous process I would assume. As a project I want to find my own athlete, and chronicle his.. or her... life through high school and teenage years.