The Inspiring Biography of a Pennsylvania Football Star! James Conner grew up in Erie, Pennsylvania, and from a young age, he showed promise as a gifted athlete. In high school, he was an unblockable defensive end. When he finally got his chance at lead running back, he became one of the most exciting offensive players in the state. At the end of his high school career, he chose to attend college in Pittsburgh―and became one of the top players in the country. But after he suffered a severe injury and then was diagnosed with cancer, his future in football was in jeopardy. This is a story of determination and perseverance. It is proof that anything is possible with hard work and a winning attitude. Pennsylvania author Larry Schardt chronicles James’ rise from a relatively unappreciated college prospect to one of the best running backs in professional sports. Complete with full-color photographs, this true story will inspire readers of all ages. With sports accounts from high school (Erie McDowell), college (University of Pittsburgh), and the pros (Pittsburgh Steelers), James Conner is a must-read for every sports fan in Pittsburgh and beyond. The book was named one of the 24 Best Sports Biography Books of All Time by BookAuthority.
Dr. Larry (Lawrence A.) Schardt (pronounced Shard) loves people and has researched human behavior for over 40 years. Being the oldest of eight, he’s had lots of practice. He regularly shares his messages of inspiration, encouragement, and hope with audiences across the United States and Territories, from Alaska to the US Virgin Islands in his "Success That Rocks" presentations. He is known for his presentations and writings on success, leadership, motivation, happiness, and living with a positive attitude. "My Runaway Summer" (released Summer 2022) is his story of running away from Pittsburgh to Ocean City, New Jersey at 15, to escape adversity and survive on his own. For 30 years Professor Schardt has taught at Penn State. His classes and internships include teaching, community, sustainability, and conservation. Larry greets everyone with exuberance, the peace sign, and his favorite blessing, “Rock ’n’ Roll!!!” Larry knows what it is to live without peace and joy. He dealt with the rigors of life. He overcame adversity, violence, and financial hardship. This enabled him to develop a “can do” positive attitude. Even though he doesn't consider himself a sports biographer, his book, "James Conner - The Triumphs of a Football Hero," was recognized as "One of the 24 Best Sports Biography Books of All Time" by BookAuthority. Larry has inspiring life stories in several “Chicken Soup for the Soul:” “Find Your Happiness,” “The Power of Gratitude,” and “The Best Advice I Ever Heard.” Larry writes a daily inspirational and positive Facebook blog in an attempt to celebrate and pay forward the positive in life . . . His passion is people. Larry received a scholarship from a mentor in his youth, which enabled him to fulfill his dream of going to college. He pledged to pay it forward and now has a scholarship fund that supports others with their dream of going to college. Larry is also penning his approach to motivating others in the book titled “Success that Rocks.” Larry can be reached at…Larry@SuccessThatRocks.com. Join Larry at Facebook.com/Larry.Schardt, LinkedIn.com/larryschardt, or Twitter.com/LarrySchardt.
A lot of research went into writing this book. Very well written especially for 4th-6th grade reading level. If you love inspirational people who happen to be an athlete and a Steeler , you will love this book.