Off the Mat

by Jeff Bibbey

Devin Thomsen and Steven Matchik seek intensity. Coach Sean Cardsen can show the way through wrestling...but will it be enough? Devin's existence is steeped in violence. Steven's family has disintegrated. The Braxton, Oregon wrestling team provides a place to fit. In their future is methamphetamine. Bonds are tested in their harrowing journey through addiction, loyalty, and attachment to youth. When action goes Off the Mat, competing requires everything they've learned, and help from above.

238 pages, Paperback

First published August 15, 2011

Reviews

[Sara · Rating 4 out of 5]

Bibbey has powerfully written a meaningful story with compelling characters. Of the nearly thirty Y.A. books I’ve read this year (I'm a high school librarian), very few have a good (in every sense of the word) story AND quality style—his book does (a rare feat). In fact, it’s in my top three favorites I’ve read this year (along with Margo Lanagan’s Tender Morsels and Craig Silvey’s Jasper Jones, which I also HIGHLY recommend). Bibbey masterfully writes about difficult issues—like relationships, religion and addiction—realistically yet compassionately. Read it!

[Mimi Wahlfeldt · Rating 5 out of 5]

I discovered this book years after it was written. No matter. Still highly relevant.

The author's grasp of addiction rings true, and the exceptional way the disease is depicted throughout the story is powerful. Bibbey has created memorable characters whom we care about, cheer for, and cry over. I *loved* the ending.

The novel is told through the unique perspective of a middle school science teacher/wrestling coach who cares deeply about his student athletes. Using themes of sports-related perseverance, teamwork, and personal motivation to overcome the minor aches and big tragedies of growing up, Off the Mat is a story for anyone who ever navigated the hallways of a junior high school - or the intricacies of a troubled teenage home life.

Kudos to the author on a well-conceived and well-written novel.

[Christian · Rating 5 out of 5]

A well paced story about a mentor and some teenage kids. The wrestling was a vehicle for the story of how seemingly small decisions can lead to drastic life trajectories. I was engaged from beginning to end.

[Ross Willard · Rating 4 out of 5]

Really enjoyed it! The book centers around a high school wrestling coach and two members of his wrestling team. Both of the boys have fairly intense problems at home, and the coach is doing his best to be there for them. The second half of the book takes place after the boys are no longer under the coach's tutelage. They both make some poor decisions, and they both spend a great deal of time trying to come back from those choices.

The ending is very well done and leaves you thinking long afterwards. I highly recommend it.

[Camille · Rating 5 out of 5]

The ending haunted me. This book is painful in the best possible way and it changed the way I view those affected by addiction.