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LeBron's Dream Team: How Four Friends and I Brought a Championship Home
The inspiration for the Peacock Original Movie "Shooting Stars"
"A book that will incredibly move and inspire you.” —Jay-Z
"An entertaining, well-written reminder that even if he seems to have been around forever, James didn’t go directly from the nursery to the NBA.” — Sports Illustrated
The "dream team" was a bunch of kids from Akron, Ohio - LeBron James and his best friends - who first met on a youth basketball team of the same name when they were ten and eleven years old. United by their love of the game and their yearning for companionship, they quickly forged a bond which would carry them through thick and thin (a lot of thin) and, at last, to the brink of a national championship.
They were a motley group who faced challenges all too typical of inner-city America. LeBron grew up without a father and had moved with his mother more than a dozen times by the age of 10. Willie McGee, the quiet one, had left both his parents behind in Chicago to be raised by his older brother in Akron. Dru Joyce was outspoken, and his dad, who was ever-present, would end up coaching all five of the boys in high school. Sian Cotton, who also played football, was the happy-go-lucky enforcer, while Romeo Travis was unhappy, bitter, even surly, until he finally opened himself up to the bond his team mates offered.
In the summer after seventh grade, the "dream team" tasted glory when they qualified for a national championship tournament in Memphis. But they lost their focus, and had to go home early. They promised each other they would stay together and do whatever it took to win a national title.
They had no idea how hard it would be to pursue that promise. In the years that followed, they would endure jealousy, hostility, exploitation, resentment from the black community (because they went to a "white" high school), and the consequence of their own over-confidence. Not least, they would all have to wrestle with LeBron's outsize success, which brought too much attention and even a whiff of scandal their way. But together these five boys became men as they sought a national championship.
"A book that will incredibly move and inspire you.” —Jay-Z
"An entertaining, well-written reminder that even if he seems to have been around forever, James didn’t go directly from the nursery to the NBA.” — Sports Illustrated
The "dream team" was a bunch of kids from Akron, Ohio - LeBron James and his best friends - who first met on a youth basketball team of the same name when they were ten and eleven years old. United by their love of the game and their yearning for companionship, they quickly forged a bond which would carry them through thick and thin (a lot of thin) and, at last, to the brink of a national championship.
They were a motley group who faced challenges all too typical of inner-city America. LeBron grew up without a father and had moved with his mother more than a dozen times by the age of 10. Willie McGee, the quiet one, had left both his parents behind in Chicago to be raised by his older brother in Akron. Dru Joyce was outspoken, and his dad, who was ever-present, would end up coaching all five of the boys in high school. Sian Cotton, who also played football, was the happy-go-lucky enforcer, while Romeo Travis was unhappy, bitter, even surly, until he finally opened himself up to the bond his team mates offered.
In the summer after seventh grade, the "dream team" tasted glory when they qualified for a national championship tournament in Memphis. But they lost their focus, and had to go home early. They promised each other they would stay together and do whatever it took to win a national title.
They had no idea how hard it would be to pursue that promise. In the years that followed, they would endure jealousy, hostility, exploitation, resentment from the black community (because they went to a "white" high school), and the consequence of their own over-confidence. Not least, they would all have to wrestle with LeBron's outsize success, which brought too much attention and even a whiff of scandal their way. But together these five boys became men as they sought a national championship.
273 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 29, 2009
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 229 reviews
January 3, 2025
Not bad! I was worried that LeBron would come across as arrogant, but that didn’t really happen. I liked the focus on his teammates throughout this book. Occasionally it came across as defensive, and that felt out of place. It wasn’t a masterpiece, but it was a fun read. If you’re like me and don’t really follow basketball, this seems like a good book to start with.
May 9, 2012
Everybody knows who Lebron James is. Everyone knows that he is arguably the most dominant player in the National Basketball Association today. But most people don’t know his story and where he came from. Many people know that he came to the NBA out of high school and went first pick to the Cleveland Cavaliers. Everybody knows him from their TV screens, but there is another half of Lebron James that people don’t see dunking over half their team’s players each week. That’s the story of his high school life. It’s a story of friendship and tears. This book, Lebron’s Dream Team by Lebron James with the help of Buzz Bissinger, is about how 5 friends made history.
The book is told from the perspective of Lebron James today (or in 2009 when he wrote the book) looking back on what he accomplished in his high school year with his 4 best friends, Little Dru, Romeo, Sian, and Willie McGee. He talks about all the games won and lost over his high school career and how they affected him and his teammates. He talks about the triumph that they all rose to when they won championships. He talks about the problems they all encountered as their shoot to fame sky rocketed. This book is a classic example of a roller coaster ride with its many ups and downs.
Lebron first tells the background story of how he and his friends, only Dru, Sian, and Willie at the time, made a team of their own coached by Dru’s dad. What started out as a team made to keep the 12 year old kids of Akron, Ohio out of trouble turned into the start of the Fab Four lighting up the score board on every other team in their town. After being noticed, they went to a qualifying tournament in Columbus for the AAU nationals in 1997. They won the tournament, qualifying for nationals in Salt Lake City. Lebron tells the funny stories of what he and his teammates did to get the money for a trip to Utah. The Shooting Stars ended up placing tenth in the national tournament. Eventually the Fab Four made it to high school where they dominated the varsity team, as freshman. It would be an understatement to say that the St. Vincent, St. Mary team was outstanding, they were unstoppable. They went 27-0 freshman year; after that they became the Fab Five when they acquired Romeo Travis. The wins didn’t stop; they went 26-1 sophomore year, then 23-4 junior year, and finally 25-1 senior year. Their only loss in the title game was to Cincinnati Roger Bacon during the junior season. Lebron was living life, named the best high school player of the time, on cover of magazines, but he soon realized that the famous life wasn’t what it was cracked up to be. There was tons of controversy after Lebron’s mother bought him a Hummer H2. Being a poor family, people thought that the James’ had been taking bribes from certain NBA teams. She said that she had to take out a loan to buy the car, but that didn’t stop the Ohio High School Athletic Association from suspending Lebron for a game until they knew the truth. No matter what they endured, these boys managed to overcome it.
I would recommend this book to any Lebron James fan or any basketball/ sports fan. I had no trouble getting through this book because I was reading about a guy that everybody who has ever played the game of basketball idolizes. I used to think Lebron was a selfish guy who left the team that he promised he would win a championship for, but this book made me realize that he does what he does for all the right reason and that beneath what you see him doing in the games and in the locker room and most importantly the interviews, he’s just a normal guy who likes to have fun with his friends and act like a kid. My favorite quote from this book is, “I think the reason why I'm the person who I am today is because I went through those tough times when I was younger.” This shows Lebron’s character more than anything else he mentions in this autobiography. He is who he is and was because of the conditions he grew up in. And it’s amazing to think that he is now called The King after being raised in the conditions of a peasant.
The book is told from the perspective of Lebron James today (or in 2009 when he wrote the book) looking back on what he accomplished in his high school year with his 4 best friends, Little Dru, Romeo, Sian, and Willie McGee. He talks about all the games won and lost over his high school career and how they affected him and his teammates. He talks about the triumph that they all rose to when they won championships. He talks about the problems they all encountered as their shoot to fame sky rocketed. This book is a classic example of a roller coaster ride with its many ups and downs.
Lebron first tells the background story of how he and his friends, only Dru, Sian, and Willie at the time, made a team of their own coached by Dru’s dad. What started out as a team made to keep the 12 year old kids of Akron, Ohio out of trouble turned into the start of the Fab Four lighting up the score board on every other team in their town. After being noticed, they went to a qualifying tournament in Columbus for the AAU nationals in 1997. They won the tournament, qualifying for nationals in Salt Lake City. Lebron tells the funny stories of what he and his teammates did to get the money for a trip to Utah. The Shooting Stars ended up placing tenth in the national tournament. Eventually the Fab Four made it to high school where they dominated the varsity team, as freshman. It would be an understatement to say that the St. Vincent, St. Mary team was outstanding, they were unstoppable. They went 27-0 freshman year; after that they became the Fab Five when they acquired Romeo Travis. The wins didn’t stop; they went 26-1 sophomore year, then 23-4 junior year, and finally 25-1 senior year. Their only loss in the title game was to Cincinnati Roger Bacon during the junior season. Lebron was living life, named the best high school player of the time, on cover of magazines, but he soon realized that the famous life wasn’t what it was cracked up to be. There was tons of controversy after Lebron’s mother bought him a Hummer H2. Being a poor family, people thought that the James’ had been taking bribes from certain NBA teams. She said that she had to take out a loan to buy the car, but that didn’t stop the Ohio High School Athletic Association from suspending Lebron for a game until they knew the truth. No matter what they endured, these boys managed to overcome it.
I would recommend this book to any Lebron James fan or any basketball/ sports fan. I had no trouble getting through this book because I was reading about a guy that everybody who has ever played the game of basketball idolizes. I used to think Lebron was a selfish guy who left the team that he promised he would win a championship for, but this book made me realize that he does what he does for all the right reason and that beneath what you see him doing in the games and in the locker room and most importantly the interviews, he’s just a normal guy who likes to have fun with his friends and act like a kid. My favorite quote from this book is, “I think the reason why I'm the person who I am today is because I went through those tough times when I was younger.” This shows Lebron’s character more than anything else he mentions in this autobiography. He is who he is and was because of the conditions he grew up in. And it’s amazing to think that he is now called The King after being raised in the conditions of a peasant.
November 5, 2015
Shooting stars is a book about Lebron James and his rough childhood and how he overcame adversity to get to the place where he is now. This book was written by Buzz Bissinger and Lebron James himself. This book told about how to fight through adversity even from a young age and how important relationships with your teammates and the people off the court are as well. Lebron James doesn't come from anything at all. His mother had him at 16 years old as a high school student. Lebron was deeply influenced by his grandmother. She taught him right from wrong and kept him away from the corrupt streets. Personally my experience with reading this book was one that I think has changed me in a great way. After this book, I learned that if there is something in life that you want you need to go and get it. Lebron James demonstrates this act multiple times in the book.
This novel's best quote is when the boys went to tournament in Memphis and Coach Dru said " that the teams quality time was being spent at the pool with girls, and not on the basketball court" (Bissinger 62). When the kids were in Memphis they felt as if that was there time to have fun although coach Dru packed up early and took the team home because he felt they were not focused and were deterred of there destiny to win the AAU championship. So for the kids hanging out at the pool was fun although for the father and the parents that made this all happen to mission was to win and out Akron on the map.
This novel makes me realize how that when your destiny is one thing the little things that look and feel fun at that moment can deter you from what you were supposed to accomplish. You can have fun along the way but you have to always have your eye on the prize. This book taught a lot of lesson others that include loyalty, perseverance, and brotherhood. The essential question that this book brings out is how does your society shape your identity. LeBron James kept his eyes on the prize and didn't let the evil around him shape how he would become. His was raised by a single mother and coaches that really cared about him but every night he saw people that had throw there life away to alcohol and drugs and stealing. He dictated his own destiny and didn't let his society shape him and his identity and he beat the stereotype.
I recommend this book to all ages kids young adults and even elderly people because it teaches but tells a good story at the same time. It also keeps you engaged with every word. This book is for those that love the game of basketball and are currently and will have to later on in there career go through adversity and this book shows you how to hold your head high above the clouds and all those evil influences and make something of yourself and become successful.
This novel's best quote is when the boys went to tournament in Memphis and Coach Dru said " that the teams quality time was being spent at the pool with girls, and not on the basketball court" (Bissinger 62). When the kids were in Memphis they felt as if that was there time to have fun although coach Dru packed up early and took the team home because he felt they were not focused and were deterred of there destiny to win the AAU championship. So for the kids hanging out at the pool was fun although for the father and the parents that made this all happen to mission was to win and out Akron on the map.
This novel makes me realize how that when your destiny is one thing the little things that look and feel fun at that moment can deter you from what you were supposed to accomplish. You can have fun along the way but you have to always have your eye on the prize. This book taught a lot of lesson others that include loyalty, perseverance, and brotherhood. The essential question that this book brings out is how does your society shape your identity. LeBron James kept his eyes on the prize and didn't let the evil around him shape how he would become. His was raised by a single mother and coaches that really cared about him but every night he saw people that had throw there life away to alcohol and drugs and stealing. He dictated his own destiny and didn't let his society shape him and his identity and he beat the stereotype.
I recommend this book to all ages kids young adults and even elderly people because it teaches but tells a good story at the same time. It also keeps you engaged with every word. This book is for those that love the game of basketball and are currently and will have to later on in there career go through adversity and this book shows you how to hold your head high above the clouds and all those evil influences and make something of yourself and become successful.
November 3, 2019
The Beginnings
In this narrative in first person, Lebron James talks about the formation of his high school basketball team and the challenges it faces in order to climb the ladder all the way to the top. The bonds that exists between the players, the style of play that the team developed and its growth as a team are exposed with details. In the book one can also know Lebron’s point of view about some challenges that he faced (e.g., the controversy about the car he received from his mother). Good reading.
In this narrative in first person, Lebron James talks about the formation of his high school basketball team and the challenges it faces in order to climb the ladder all the way to the top. The bonds that exists between the players, the style of play that the team developed and its growth as a team are exposed with details. In the book one can also know Lebron’s point of view about some challenges that he faced (e.g., the controversy about the car he received from his mother). Good reading.
January 15, 2013
I have just started reading this book and i find this book really touching. It is about a young african american basketball player. Who stuggles poverty with his mum but meets some friends along and forms a team . I chose to read this book because the title of the book inspired me. Dream team is a book of young basketball team who lives like brothers and plays basketball to achieve their dreams.
April 18, 2013
I read Shooting Stars by LeBron James. This is a sports book and memoir. This book is about LeBron James a young high school superstar basketball player and his team. It shows how they won their games lived their high schools lives with all the hype of how good they were. Also it shows how LeBron James started his career to becoming arguably the best athlete on earth today. This book takes place in the mid 2000's in Akron, Ohio. Thats were the high school they played at was. Really the only true character in this book is the main character LeBron James. He is a extremely gifted athlete, tall, popular in high school and is looked at as the next best basketball since Michael Jordan. Thats an awful a lot of pressure on a sophomore in high school. The other few character are LeBrons coach who is an awesome coach and mentore for him. Also LeBron's best friend and teammate Mark. He has been best friends with LeBron since elementary school. He also is a sophomore in high school. He is known as the funny one on the team, the guy that keeps everybody loose. The main problem in this book is when LeBron's friend dies. His whole team dedicates their performances to him throughout the years of playing together, and i can imagine he would be very proud. Overall the book is mostly happy and motivating to go after what you want. The main plot in this book is LeBron and his teammates have to live up to all the talk about them being the best high school basketball team in the country. Also led by the best player( LeBron James). Their lives are basketball for the time being in high school and they do whatever they can to try and bring home the championship! I really enjoyed this book, i loved how the whole team was best friends and they all loved playing for each other. It reminds me of our basketball team. I also really like seeing how LeBron James became who is now and how it all got started. My favorite character obviously is LeBron James, he is just everything i want to be in a man. I would absolutely recommend this book to anybody thats likes sports. Its a great book and motivator to be on a team. This book really demonstrates that well.
March 16, 2016
Shooting Stars by Lebron James is an interesting autobiography of lebrons high school years. There are many reoccurring topics and themes this book goes over, ideas that most teens and athletes struggle with. Themes such as money, loyalty, trust issues and insecurities. The fast pace writing and surprising events that take place in the book made it a hard novel to put down. The most impressive part of the book is the fact that Lebron a young kid when he had to deal with the media hyping him up and the fact that he was never financially stable. Growing up in the small city of Akron,Ohio he quickly learned without a father how to take care of himself and his mother. This would make Lebron a much mature kid because he would have to grow up much quicker.
Shooting Stars is an autobiography novel that describes the story of the coming of age and the hardships of Lebron James growing up, who is currently and NBA player and a multiple time MVP. As the book delves into the hardships of lebrons upbringing, you start to realize how much the book is actually about the team as a whole instead of just Lebron. I had a great time reading this book. One of my favorite lines in the book was "I think the reason why I'm the person who I am today is because I went through those tough times when I was younger." (17)
Of course, like any other book there was some flaws. I think at times the book became kind of stagnant, but being an autobiography that's ok because it's an account of real life events. The climax in this book I think is when the gets in trouble because of the car his mom bought him. His future was at stake of being thrown away because there was a chance the school could take away all of his accolades. Instead he won the case and is now the nba superstar phenomenon we know as Lebron James. Overall I though it was a very well written book and I have a new found respect for not only Lebron but the whole entire fighting Irish team. I recommend this book to anyone who enjoys basketball and coming of age stories.
Shooting Stars is an autobiography novel that describes the story of the coming of age and the hardships of Lebron James growing up, who is currently and NBA player and a multiple time MVP. As the book delves into the hardships of lebrons upbringing, you start to realize how much the book is actually about the team as a whole instead of just Lebron. I had a great time reading this book. One of my favorite lines in the book was "I think the reason why I'm the person who I am today is because I went through those tough times when I was younger." (17)
Of course, like any other book there was some flaws. I think at times the book became kind of stagnant, but being an autobiography that's ok because it's an account of real life events. The climax in this book I think is when the gets in trouble because of the car his mom bought him. His future was at stake of being thrown away because there was a chance the school could take away all of his accolades. Instead he won the case and is now the nba superstar phenomenon we know as Lebron James. Overall I though it was a very well written book and I have a new found respect for not only Lebron but the whole entire fighting Irish team. I recommend this book to anyone who enjoys basketball and coming of age stories.
March 22, 2021
This book "Lebron's Dream Team:How Five Friends Made History," by Lebron James and Buzz Bissinger was an amazing book. I have trouble finding books that will keep me interested and without stop me stop reading it an never coming back to it. But with this book I stayed interested and didn't stop and never come back to it. I found it very interesting and something that is interesting to learn new facts and information. I definitely recommend this book if your are interested in learning new things and if you just looking for something real life.
This book is about the life growing up with LeBron James. Throughout the book it brings you through his whole basketball career from when he was young. It also tells of him and a group of friends he played with and growing up with them. It talks where he was from and how he grew up with a team that became his really good friends and the support they gave each other. And how and why he started playing basketball. This book about LeBron James and his friends is a book that I definitely recommend if you are interested to learn more about him.
This book is about the life growing up with LeBron James. Throughout the book it brings you through his whole basketball career from when he was young. It also tells of him and a group of friends he played with and growing up with them. It talks where he was from and how he grew up with a team that became his really good friends and the support they gave each other. And how and why he started playing basketball. This book about LeBron James and his friends is a book that I definitely recommend if you are interested to learn more about him.
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October 28, 2014 This book is about four boys who meet through Basketball in the city of Akron, Ohio. They end up going to the same High School, Saint Vincent- Saint Mary, to try and win a State and National championship. It talks about how some boys who aren't even related, can become as close as brothers through the game of basketball. What I liked about this story is how they started off as being an underdog, to being ranked the Number 1 team in the Nation! Why I connected to is because they never gave up, no matter how bad their situations were, they managed to pull through the pain. I recommend this book to anyone who likes sports books, or an underdog type of book.
April 8, 2019
honestly what can’t lebron do? i’m very impressed with how detailed he was in describing the background of all of the Fab Four (then turned Fab Five). he gave the audience a play by play of some of the most important games of his AAU and high school career. he described the struggle of growing up in Akron, but using basketball (and we can’t forget about his three years of high school football) as his way to make it out. i can only assume that he and buzz bissinger went through an arduous and long process of going to interview each of the players, coaches, and more. it payed off with one of the best high school basketball-oriented nonfiction works i’ve probably read. well done lebron
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September 27, 2013 I decided to read More Than A Game because LeBron is my favorite NBA player. I've been his #1 biggest fan for three years now, and I was dying to read a book about him! I was eager to learn more about my idol besides his amazing ball-handling on the court. Once I was finished reading, I gained so much more respect for LeBron. For example; he had it tough when he was little, but he still followed his dreams and made it very far in life. I recommended this book to anyone who doubts LeBron- I guarantee you that you will at least gain a little respect for him.
February 24, 2014
This book is about Lebron James, it takes place in Akron Ohio. Lebron is a high school kid that plays basketball with his four best friends. This isn't any ordinary group of friends though. Lebron and his friends play on their school basketball team and there on of the best in the country, but are they the best, find out if Lebron and his friends will become the best or will fall short in the quest to become the best team in there country. I Really enjoyed this book i recommend this to anybody that like Basketball or Lebron James.
February 23, 2012
This book is about Lebron James life and childhood. His life was hard living in a small apartment and only a mom. He would always ride his bike around Arkon Ohio. He loved the burgers from his favorite place swensons he loved the aroma too. He later in the book made book he meet some friends Little Dru,Willie,Sian.
November 1, 2013
Shooting stars by LeBron James and Buzz Bissinger is a book about how perseverance, hard work and teamwork can pay off. LeBron and the rest of the fab 4 +1 go from a team of high school students, into a nationally ranked team! I would definitely recommend this book, including but not limited to, anyone who enjoys non fiction, or a great story!
June 6, 2019
I loved how this book caught my attention and made me so intrested in learning about my idols life and how it wasn´t all great and everything.
April 27, 2023
I thought this book was really interesting. I’m personally a huge fan of Lebron James and think he is the best basketball player of all time. I really enjoyed how the author laid out this book by splitting it into two different parts. The first half talks about James growing up in Akron Ohio in a poor household without a father. Jumping from house to house trying to make ends meet. The second half of the book talked about his actual basketball career jumping from high school, skipping college, go straight to the NBA. I think this book is a great motivation source as well because James beat all the odds against him and is now a multi-millionaire athlete.
I am planning on talking about and connecting this book in my final project in my strategic reading class with other sports biographies. I think this book is one of my favorite books that I have read in my lifetime because I really enjoy the game of basketball and I can see myself in this book because I didn’t really have a lot when I was a kid. This book is being created into a movie on the platform Peacock and it is set to release sometime in June. I am really excited to see this movie because I know some people read the book and then watch the movie but I have never done that before and am really interested in how different or similar the movie will be from the actual book. My favorite quote from this book is “Don't be afraid of failure. This is the way to succeed.” I used this quote in my book talk in class because I think this is a great way to depict LeBron's mindset and not only that but this could be applied to anyone. This quote I feel like is a great motivation tool to think about whenever you're nervous about something. If I had to choose which part of the book I enjoyed more it would probably be the second half of the book because I have followed Lebron and have been a fan of him his entire career and I just thought it was cool how the book would talk about certain games that I have watched live. I just thought this was an interesting or cool little thing about this book. I think Buzz Bissenger did a great job with Lebron on creating this book. I looked up different books this author has made and this was the only athlete that I personally knew. As Lebron's career progresses I am hopeful another book like this will come out and will tell the entire story of Lebron and his career after he retires because Lebron is still currently playing in the NBA today. Overall I thought this book was great and would highly recommend anyone to read this book because you don’t really need to like Lebron or even basketball in general to enjoy this motivational story made by LeBron James and Buzz Bissenger.
I am planning on talking about and connecting this book in my final project in my strategic reading class with other sports biographies. I think this book is one of my favorite books that I have read in my lifetime because I really enjoy the game of basketball and I can see myself in this book because I didn’t really have a lot when I was a kid. This book is being created into a movie on the platform Peacock and it is set to release sometime in June. I am really excited to see this movie because I know some people read the book and then watch the movie but I have never done that before and am really interested in how different or similar the movie will be from the actual book. My favorite quote from this book is “Don't be afraid of failure. This is the way to succeed.” I used this quote in my book talk in class because I think this is a great way to depict LeBron's mindset and not only that but this could be applied to anyone. This quote I feel like is a great motivation tool to think about whenever you're nervous about something. If I had to choose which part of the book I enjoyed more it would probably be the second half of the book because I have followed Lebron and have been a fan of him his entire career and I just thought it was cool how the book would talk about certain games that I have watched live. I just thought this was an interesting or cool little thing about this book. I think Buzz Bissenger did a great job with Lebron on creating this book. I looked up different books this author has made and this was the only athlete that I personally knew. As Lebron's career progresses I am hopeful another book like this will come out and will tell the entire story of Lebron and his career after he retires because Lebron is still currently playing in the NBA today. Overall I thought this book was great and would highly recommend anyone to read this book because you don’t really need to like Lebron or even basketball in general to enjoy this motivational story made by LeBron James and Buzz Bissenger.
November 8, 2023
Final Book Review
The book I am reading is called Shooting Stars. Shooting Stars is about Lebron James, and how his basketball skills have improved throughout his career. It also talks about the people he encountered on the way, his teammates personalities, and not being accepted because of racism and prejudice. Lebron wasn’t accepted as a Black man, and his childhood was extremely rough as well. I chose this book because we are reading To Kill A Mockingbird in class, and we are learning about prejudice, so I thought it could give me a more modern day perspective on racism, along with reading about racism in the past.
In Shooting Stars you’ll learn how rough it can be to grow up in the slums and persevere through it all. Lebron and his friends, the fab five as they were later called, all grew up in poor households and were constantly surrounded by drugs, drive-bys, and many other bad things. However this didn’t stop them from becoming some of the best athletes of their generation. They were together for almost every basketball experience they had been through, and they grew immensely as a team.
Sian, Willie, Lil Dru, Romeo, and Lebron (the fab five) all ended up going to college on scholarships for basketball, in exception for Lebron who went straight to the NBA and Willie who went for football. They are still friends to this very day, and I personally think they are a huge inspiration to anyone playing sports that wants to go to college. As Romeo once said “Nobody at nine could have told me I would go to college on a full scholarship,” (Lebron James 251). My favorite part from Shooting Stars is the amount of times Lebron misses the last shot of the game when they are down one. This may sound cruel but it really shows that you aren’t born a professional, and even Lebron is always working to get better.
I really enjoyed this book because of the message it projects, which is if you put your mind to it you can do it. On the contrary, since it is non-fiction it is a slower story and is not as engaging as I would prefer. Someone that would like this book would be someone who is really invested in basketball and loves it with all of their heart. I say with all of your heart because this book quite literally goes over every play, every point, and every game in Lebron's career. If you love basketball you would love this book.
The book I am reading is called Shooting Stars. Shooting Stars is about Lebron James, and how his basketball skills have improved throughout his career. It also talks about the people he encountered on the way, his teammates personalities, and not being accepted because of racism and prejudice. Lebron wasn’t accepted as a Black man, and his childhood was extremely rough as well. I chose this book because we are reading To Kill A Mockingbird in class, and we are learning about prejudice, so I thought it could give me a more modern day perspective on racism, along with reading about racism in the past.
In Shooting Stars you’ll learn how rough it can be to grow up in the slums and persevere through it all. Lebron and his friends, the fab five as they were later called, all grew up in poor households and were constantly surrounded by drugs, drive-bys, and many other bad things. However this didn’t stop them from becoming some of the best athletes of their generation. They were together for almost every basketball experience they had been through, and they grew immensely as a team.
Sian, Willie, Lil Dru, Romeo, and Lebron (the fab five) all ended up going to college on scholarships for basketball, in exception for Lebron who went straight to the NBA and Willie who went for football. They are still friends to this very day, and I personally think they are a huge inspiration to anyone playing sports that wants to go to college. As Romeo once said “Nobody at nine could have told me I would go to college on a full scholarship,” (Lebron James 251). My favorite part from Shooting Stars is the amount of times Lebron misses the last shot of the game when they are down one. This may sound cruel but it really shows that you aren’t born a professional, and even Lebron is always working to get better.
I really enjoyed this book because of the message it projects, which is if you put your mind to it you can do it. On the contrary, since it is non-fiction it is a slower story and is not as engaging as I would prefer. Someone that would like this book would be someone who is really invested in basketball and loves it with all of their heart. I say with all of your heart because this book quite literally goes over every play, every point, and every game in Lebron's career. If you love basketball you would love this book.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 19, 2024
"Shooting Stars" by LeBron James is a captivating memoir that delves deep into the life of one of basketball's most iconic figures. From his upbringing in Akron, Ohio, to his rise to superstardom in the NBA, James takes readers on a journey filled with triumphs, challenges, and invaluable life lessons.
The book begins with James recounting his childhood, where he faced numerous obstacles including poverty and instability. Despite these challenges, he discovered his passion for basketball at a young age and devoted himself to the sport with unwavering determination. James's portrayal of his early years is raw and authentic, shedding light on the struggles that shaped him into the resilient individual he is today.
As James's basketball career progressed, so too did his impact on the sport and society as a whole. He shares intimate details of his time in high school, where he became a national sensation and faced immense pressure to succeed. James's humility and perspective shine through as he reflects on the sacrifices made by his family and the mentors who guided him along the way.
One of the most compelling aspects of "Shooting Stars" is James's exploration of the broader issues he encountered throughout his career, including race, fame, and social responsibility. He doesn't shy away from addressing controversial topics or sharing his own mistakes, offering valuable insights into the complexities of navigating life in the public eye.
Beyond basketball, "Shooting Stars" is a testament to the power of perseverance, teamwork, and leadership. James's experiences on and off the court serve as valuable lessons for readers of all ages, inspiring them to pursue their dreams with passion and resilience.
In addition to its powerful message, "Shooting Stars" is also a beautifully written and engaging read. James's prose is both eloquent and relatable, drawing readers in with its authenticity and sincerity. Whether you're a die-hard basketball fan or simply seeking inspiration, this book is sure to leave a lasting impact.
In conclusion, "Shooting Stars" is a masterpiece of sports literature that transcends the game of basketball. LeBron James's remarkable journey is a testament to the power of perseverance, resilience, and the human spirit. This book is a must-read for anyone who dares to dream big and defy the odds.
The book begins with James recounting his childhood, where he faced numerous obstacles including poverty and instability. Despite these challenges, he discovered his passion for basketball at a young age and devoted himself to the sport with unwavering determination. James's portrayal of his early years is raw and authentic, shedding light on the struggles that shaped him into the resilient individual he is today.
As James's basketball career progressed, so too did his impact on the sport and society as a whole. He shares intimate details of his time in high school, where he became a national sensation and faced immense pressure to succeed. James's humility and perspective shine through as he reflects on the sacrifices made by his family and the mentors who guided him along the way.
One of the most compelling aspects of "Shooting Stars" is James's exploration of the broader issues he encountered throughout his career, including race, fame, and social responsibility. He doesn't shy away from addressing controversial topics or sharing his own mistakes, offering valuable insights into the complexities of navigating life in the public eye.
Beyond basketball, "Shooting Stars" is a testament to the power of perseverance, teamwork, and leadership. James's experiences on and off the court serve as valuable lessons for readers of all ages, inspiring them to pursue their dreams with passion and resilience.
In addition to its powerful message, "Shooting Stars" is also a beautifully written and engaging read. James's prose is both eloquent and relatable, drawing readers in with its authenticity and sincerity. Whether you're a die-hard basketball fan or simply seeking inspiration, this book is sure to leave a lasting impact.
In conclusion, "Shooting Stars" is a masterpiece of sports literature that transcends the game of basketball. LeBron James's remarkable journey is a testament to the power of perseverance, resilience, and the human spirit. This book is a must-read for anyone who dares to dream big and defy the odds.
October 30, 2024
La biografia è un genere che leggo poco, mettiamoci pure la pallacanestro che risulta essere uno sport che non seguo molto questo libro aveva tutti i presupposti per non appassionarmi…
Tuttavia la figura di LeBron James mi ha sempre incuriosita per cui quando ho ricevuto la newsletter della casa editrice, con la presentazione di questo volume, ho subito colto la balla al balzo e ho richiesto la mia copia.
Il libro, raccontato in prima persona proprio da LeBron, parte da quando lui è piccolo e, con la mamma, si trova in una situazione di indigenza che lo porta a traslocare svariate volte fino ad approdare nella cittadina di Akron. Qui grazie al basket e a una serie di figure importanti riuscirà a diventare il campione che tutti conosciamo. Ci viene raccontata la sua vita, a partire dall’infanzia sino al debutto nella serie maggiore, la famosa NBA.
Quello che ho amato tanto di questo libro tanto da assegnargli il punteggio pieno e lo stile con cui ci viene narrato. La storia di LeBron mi ha appassionato moltissimo e dalla quale non riuscivo a staccarmi dalle pagine (pensate mi son quasi dimenticata di mangiare…non mi credete? Fate bene…). Infatti l'ho finito praticamente in un pomeriggio. Grazie alle parole del campione non ho fatto la minima fatica a entrare nella storia e, pagina dopo pagina, provavo la sensazione di essere li, vicino a lui in ogni momento della sua vita che ci viene raccontato.
Soprattutto mi sono piaciute le cronache delle partite e il modo in cui vengono descritte. Ogni volta LeBron mi ha fatto provare la sua stessa ansia, le medesime paure e i tutti pensieri che lo colpivano quando era in campo.
Altra cosa che ho amato è il sentimento di amicizia che si instaura tra i Fab 4 prima, e i Fab 5 poi. Dru Joyce, Sian Cotton, Willie McGee e Romeo Travis.
Ma se sogni con tutte le tue forze, se ci provi con tutte le tue forze, e trovi io giusto gruppo di persone che sognino con te, allora forse – perchè c'è sempre un forse quando si tratta di sogni – quei sogni possono diventare realtà.
Nonostante sia lui il protagonista di tutto, LeBron racconta anche di loro, e ci fa conoscere i loro caratteri, i loro sogni, i loro timori e la loro determinazione. Tra tutti il mio preferito è sicuramente Little Dru perchè, nonostante non fosse fisicamente il tipo da basket, è riuscito a diventare uno dei giocatori migliori di questo sport.
Sono davvero contenta di aver richiesto questo libro perché come ho già detto è una delle lettori migliori che ho fatto ad ottobre.
Tuttavia la figura di LeBron James mi ha sempre incuriosita per cui quando ho ricevuto la newsletter della casa editrice, con la presentazione di questo volume, ho subito colto la balla al balzo e ho richiesto la mia copia.
Il libro, raccontato in prima persona proprio da LeBron, parte da quando lui è piccolo e, con la mamma, si trova in una situazione di indigenza che lo porta a traslocare svariate volte fino ad approdare nella cittadina di Akron. Qui grazie al basket e a una serie di figure importanti riuscirà a diventare il campione che tutti conosciamo. Ci viene raccontata la sua vita, a partire dall’infanzia sino al debutto nella serie maggiore, la famosa NBA.
Quello che ho amato tanto di questo libro tanto da assegnargli il punteggio pieno e lo stile con cui ci viene narrato. La storia di LeBron mi ha appassionato moltissimo e dalla quale non riuscivo a staccarmi dalle pagine (pensate mi son quasi dimenticata di mangiare…non mi credete? Fate bene…). Infatti l'ho finito praticamente in un pomeriggio. Grazie alle parole del campione non ho fatto la minima fatica a entrare nella storia e, pagina dopo pagina, provavo la sensazione di essere li, vicino a lui in ogni momento della sua vita che ci viene raccontato.
Soprattutto mi sono piaciute le cronache delle partite e il modo in cui vengono descritte. Ogni volta LeBron mi ha fatto provare la sua stessa ansia, le medesime paure e i tutti pensieri che lo colpivano quando era in campo.
Altra cosa che ho amato è il sentimento di amicizia che si instaura tra i Fab 4 prima, e i Fab 5 poi. Dru Joyce, Sian Cotton, Willie McGee e Romeo Travis.
Ma se sogni con tutte le tue forze, se ci provi con tutte le tue forze, e trovi io giusto gruppo di persone che sognino con te, allora forse – perchè c'è sempre un forse quando si tratta di sogni – quei sogni possono diventare realtà.
Nonostante sia lui il protagonista di tutto, LeBron racconta anche di loro, e ci fa conoscere i loro caratteri, i loro sogni, i loro timori e la loro determinazione. Tra tutti il mio preferito è sicuramente Little Dru perchè, nonostante non fosse fisicamente il tipo da basket, è riuscito a diventare uno dei giocatori migliori di questo sport.
Sono davvero contenta di aver richiesto questo libro perché come ho già detto è una delle lettori migliori che ho fatto ad ottobre.
October 13, 2017
This was a fantastic book. LeBron James's story about his early years is one to remember, and this book does a very good job chronicling it. It gives a very good illustration of his rough life growing up on the streets of Akron (I remember James writing about how he moved six times in one year, and saying how he never went to Cleveland, which was just 45 minutes away). My favorite part of this story, however, is how James chronicles his basketball days from playing AAU hoops all the way to him becoming a national sensation during his later years at St V's.
Another element of LeBron's book that I loved was him talking about how it was almost insurmountable for him to deal with the attention and fame that he gained during his junior and senior years at St V's (case in point: LeBron elaborating how he was overwhelmed by the attention brought to him when he was on the cover of Sports Illustrated, and people hounding him for autographs).
I wasn't completely blown away by the book (hence the four star rating), it was as good as I hoped it would be, but there wasn't too much of an emotional appeal to Shooting Stars, but the way James's story was structured was very good, and I looked forward to reading it any time I had a chance. I would recommend this book to any die-hard basketball fan.
Another element of LeBron's book that I loved was him talking about how it was almost insurmountable for him to deal with the attention and fame that he gained during his junior and senior years at St V's (case in point: LeBron elaborating how he was overwhelmed by the attention brought to him when he was on the cover of Sports Illustrated, and people hounding him for autographs).
I wasn't completely blown away by the book (hence the four star rating), it was as good as I hoped it would be, but there wasn't too much of an emotional appeal to Shooting Stars, but the way James's story was structured was very good, and I looked forward to reading it any time I had a chance. I would recommend this book to any die-hard basketball fan.
February 2, 2022
“Just a kid from Akron.” That’s what we know him as. The greatest basketball player of all time, LeBron James. But, what many people don’t realize is that he isn’t just a basketball player who “was all the rage” while he was in high school. He’s a student, a son, a friend, and a jokester. In this book written by Bussinger, the reader gets to know so much more about LeBron James off the court. The book starts out with the beginnings of him and his three friends. Together known as the fab 4 and later 5. We learn about their hard childhoods and the single thing that kept them going basketball. They played it day and night. This sheds light on the reason St. Vincent- St. Mary high school played so well on the court. But what many don’t know is how they were ambivalent about what high school they were going to. When they finally made a decision that change their futures forever, many said they were “vacuous.” I give this book five stars. The pacing is perfect. I also love how when it comes to big games the author takes you point by point until the end.
The line “Romeo opens the third by scoring underneath.”
“Alter 19-16.” I love how LeBron takes you through the big games like that. The reader gets to know his teammates really well through moments like this. I would recommend this book to anyone whole loves sports. That's my review on "Shooting Stars"
The line “Romeo opens the third by scoring underneath.”
“Alter 19-16.” I love how LeBron takes you through the big games like that. The reader gets to know his teammates really well through moments like this. I would recommend this book to anyone whole loves sports. That's my review on "Shooting Stars"
May 10, 2024
Are you a basketball lover or if you're a Lebron lover I recommend a book about Lebron and basketball. The book is called Shooting Star by Buzz Bisssinger. Genre nonfiction.
This book is based in Akron, Ohio and some of the characters are Lebron James and his parents and teammates. The goal for Lebron is to make it to the NBA he didn't go to college and went straight to the draft. My opinion of this book was a solid 8/10 stars. I enjoyed this book because I enjoy reading about sports and how
Lebron became so successful in the nba. The writing font was normal, nothing really that interesting in this story. My evidence is that if you like sports you will like this book, if you enjoy reading and learning about different athletes that are the best at their sport you should read about Lebron.
Finally to summarize this story I would recommend reading this book if you are interested in basketball or just Lebron in general. The one downside is the photos were not really helpful but they can definitely add more deatil. The book really showed me how he became so good and popular. He is the goat in my opinion but if he was gonna go to college he said “I would go to Ohio State ''.
March 28, 2025
Shooting Stars is in the perspective of Lebron Raymone James (also known as Him, or the GOAT) a long with his teamates in their teenage years. It brings us through when he first started playing basketball, all the way to him being drafted to the NBA. Lebron and his teamates fought their way through winning many games and championships, but also losing some. All of these factors led to him being the greatest of all time today. This novel displays many themes throughout, including teamwork, attitude, and perseverance. Teamwork was heavily shown all around in the novel in every stage of his life. Without his level of teamwork, he would never be as prevelant as he is today. His attitude and perseverence were some other key parts in his successful career, with him always being able to get back up and fight hard. I truly enjoyed reading this, not only because it was Lebron, but also because it is inspiring. Hearing Lebron's story and what he had to go through to get where he is today is something I believe every person should hear. He isn't scared to show the low moments of his life, but rather proud of it as they were key pieces to his success. I highly recommend this novel, as it is one of the greatest pieces of literature every written. I would recommend this novel to anyone who could first read, but mainly to those interested in basketball and Lebron Raymone James.
October 13, 2017
Overall This is a pretty good book If you like basketball and watching documentaries this is just the book for you. You get to learn about LeBron James's early life, his hardships, and what it took took get to the point that he is at today. This book has good structure to it and really kept me reading, it was full of interesting childhood information and I definitely learned some things I never knew about LeBron. One thing that separates this book from most other books is how it's written; You feel like lebron is talking to you, he adds humor and really doesn't change the writing style from how he actually talks. I really like that a lot because that kept me interested and made me want to read more. If you are a reader who likes action and a big turning point in a reading this is not the book for you; this book basically outlines Lebrons life and his early childhood and some of his successes and things he had to overcome to be successful.
June 29, 2019
The book was good. Not amazing but if you like LeBron and grew up when he was coming into fame, this is a pretty fun read. I remember hearing about all the scandals surrounding his taking bribes in High School and it was interesting to read things from his side (as told by Bissinger). LeBron admits some of his own mistakes and lack of humility during his High School days, and reminds his readers he was in High School. He wasn't an adult and the media were pretty ruthless given this fact. I also loved learning how many people played such crucial roles in his life and the brotherhood he had with his teammates that went back to Middle School for 4 of them. My family loves LeBron and he really has been a great role model in terms of what he has done with his celebrity and fame. Glad he made it despite some pretty big obstacles.
January 14, 2012
Shooting Stars is the story of LeBron James and his journey with a group of basketball teammates that become like a family to him. It starts off with James describing his childhood and what it was like for him growing up. His mom raised him all by herself from the time she was only 16, and went from job to job trying to provide for them. He grew up in a not-so-good part of Akron, so some of the things he experienced as a child were things no kid should ever have to go through. He often moved around from place to place. When James was about nine, he began to play basketball, and took to it instantly. That is when he met Coach Dru, a man that would be a mentor and coach to him for a majority of his high school basketball career. He played for a team called the Shooting Stars. That's also when he met Coach Dru's son, Little Dru, who would soon be a part of the Fab Five. Shortly after that, a boy named Sian came into the picture, and was the third member of the Fab Five. The three boys had a connection and Coach Dru drove them all the way to Cocoa Beach, Florida for a tournament because they were doing so well. They finished ninth of sixty-four teams. The fourth member of the Fab Five was Willie. He instantly connected with the three other boys and they became the Fab Four. The four of them went through a lot in middle school and had to decide where they all wanted to go to high school. They made a mutual decision to attend an all-white Catholic school, St. V, where they endured lots of racism. Despite racism, the boys were outstanding at the game of basketball. They had a coach called Dambrot, who led them to win a state championship. The boys excelled quickly, but they were still missing a player. Romeo was the fifth link to their Fab Five. At first, he didn't feel like he belonged with LeBron, Dru, Sian, and Willie because they already shared a strong bond. The Fab Four finally decided to make him another one of their "brothers," and become the Fab Five. The team worked hard to achieve their goals. Dambrot left after their freshman year and Coach Dru became head coach. The boys went through some rough spots during their junior year when they became careless, and also their senior year. The Ohio High School Athletic Association was out to get them because they were a nationally ranked team. Despite rough patches, the Fab Five stepped up their game senior year with an undefeated season, giving them the number one rank in a poll from USA Today. The last time they played basketball together was when the five of them won a national tournament together. They all remain very close with each other due to their bond that came from the game of basketball.
I will admit that I haven't been much of a LeBron fan ever since he left Cleveland. I don't support his decision, but I will admit that he is an extraordinary basketball player. Reading this book developed a sort of soft spot within me for the man. I think that it's amazing how he went through so many terrible things as a child, and ended up becoming one of the greatest athlete's in the world. I also found his story of the Fab Five heart-warming because of how close the team was. They never could have done as well as they did without each other. The way LeBron talked about them in the book, it sounded like he was talking about his family, and that really hit home. I love the fact that if you work really hard, you can achieve your goals, but even more, I love the fact that it can be done with a group of people that can develop such a bond just by having a common goal. The book was very touching.
In Shooting Stars, there seemed to be two main focuses. One was Lebron and all that he went through to get to where he is now. The other was the group of five boys and the coach that helped him get there. I think that LeBron's purpose in writing the book was to show people what he went through. On page 191 in the book he talks about the pressure he went through by growing up without a father when his mother was 16, watching his home get condemned and torn down, moving all over the place, and staying up at night worrying about his mother. The kid went through a lot, but just because he didn't have the ideal childhood, he wasn't stopped from achieving his goals. He wanted people to know that they can still do something great in the world even under bad circumstances. He also talks about some of the rough patches he went through with his team, like losing important games. LeBron, too, went through losses in order to become great. By writing the book, he wanted readers to be inspired by his stories so that they can try to achieve their own personal goals.
The theme was more centered on the Fab Five. All five of them had a goal to win a national championship, and they didn't give up on that goal until they reached it. The theme was to not give up on your most valued goals. After St. V won the championship, LeBron was thinking about how the dream started. He said that "A lot of people set goals in life but never fulfill them... We had accomplished our goal and dream, and as members of the Fab Five, we had done it in the last game of basketball we would ever play together" (James 241). It took these boys their entire high school careers to accomplish their dream, but their hard work and refusal to give up paid off. LeBron, Little Dru, Sian, Willie, and Romeo went after something that seemed impossible. In the end however, it was their willpower as a team to not give in that made them successful.
I will admit that I haven't been much of a LeBron fan ever since he left Cleveland. I don't support his decision, but I will admit that he is an extraordinary basketball player. Reading this book developed a sort of soft spot within me for the man. I think that it's amazing how he went through so many terrible things as a child, and ended up becoming one of the greatest athlete's in the world. I also found his story of the Fab Five heart-warming because of how close the team was. They never could have done as well as they did without each other. The way LeBron talked about them in the book, it sounded like he was talking about his family, and that really hit home. I love the fact that if you work really hard, you can achieve your goals, but even more, I love the fact that it can be done with a group of people that can develop such a bond just by having a common goal. The book was very touching.
In Shooting Stars, there seemed to be two main focuses. One was Lebron and all that he went through to get to where he is now. The other was the group of five boys and the coach that helped him get there. I think that LeBron's purpose in writing the book was to show people what he went through. On page 191 in the book he talks about the pressure he went through by growing up without a father when his mother was 16, watching his home get condemned and torn down, moving all over the place, and staying up at night worrying about his mother. The kid went through a lot, but just because he didn't have the ideal childhood, he wasn't stopped from achieving his goals. He wanted people to know that they can still do something great in the world even under bad circumstances. He also talks about some of the rough patches he went through with his team, like losing important games. LeBron, too, went through losses in order to become great. By writing the book, he wanted readers to be inspired by his stories so that they can try to achieve their own personal goals.
The theme was more centered on the Fab Five. All five of them had a goal to win a national championship, and they didn't give up on that goal until they reached it. The theme was to not give up on your most valued goals. After St. V won the championship, LeBron was thinking about how the dream started. He said that "A lot of people set goals in life but never fulfill them... We had accomplished our goal and dream, and as members of the Fab Five, we had done it in the last game of basketball we would ever play together" (James 241). It took these boys their entire high school careers to accomplish their dream, but their hard work and refusal to give up paid off. LeBron, Little Dru, Sian, Willie, and Romeo went after something that seemed impossible. In the end however, it was their willpower as a team to not give in that made them successful.
July 7, 2024
Good book to known the upbringing and beginnings of Lebron. He had to go through big disapointments missing several last shots in big matches, endure the hardships of life (her mother struggled to raise him), and also deal with the big hype and criticisms he got at the early stages of his career. Also it is interesting to read about how he bonded with four of his friends/teamates connecting basketball with friendship. Also it is interesting to read about some of the early coaches he had and his relathionship with them.
May 29, 2025
This book is about LeBron James during his high school career playing for St.Vincent, St.Mary high school. This book goes over his seasons in high school and how he built his team before getting into high school. He talks about his team mates little Dru, Romeo, Sian, and Willie. I liked learning about LeBron's early days in basketball and how he built up to the NBA. I would recommend this novel to anybody who likes LeBron or the NBA to learn about the best Basketball Player of all time.
January 11, 2018
Shooting stars is about Lebron James and his whole childhood growing up in Ohio. He meets new friends while playing basketball and become good friends. They play basketball and become a super good team and become champions. Overall It is a great book if you like basketball and I highly recommend it.
July 26, 2021
Witnesses of LeBron James who want to know his origin story and what his life was before he became an NBA superstar and global icon will find this book immersive and soul-baring. The book is told from the lens of a high schooler as he grapples with the burden of systemic racism and unprecedented hype while leading his team in a predominantly white Catholic institution, St. Vincent-St. Mary.
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