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Fear Is a Choice: Tackling Life's Challenges with Dignity, Faith, and Determination
From fighting for his life to pursuing a career in the NFL, ACC Player of the Year and star Pittsburgh Steelers running back James Conner shares how his choice to not fear the unknown made all the difference in his extraordinary journey.
During his first two years at the University of Pittsburgh, running back James Conner became one of the Panthers’ biggest stars, breaking records and winning the adoration of fans. Then, in the first game of his junior year, disaster struck in the form of a torn MCL. During rehab, James’s health continued to inexplicably deteriorate until a chest X-ray and biopsy confirmed the unthinkable: a diagnosis of Hodgkin’s lymphoma. Suddenly, it wasn’t just the dream of an NFL career that was in jeopardy; it was James’s life. Yet when he shared the news of his diagnosis publicly, James rallied family, friends, and fans, with his message of hope and courage: “Fear is a choice. I choose not to fear cancer.” In just ten words, James defined his own journey on his own terms and refused to back down from one of the most dreaded diseases known to man.
Drawing strength from his faith in God and the support of his community and loved ones, James underwent treatment but continued to practice with his team despite the intense physical toll of chemotherapy. He was declared cancer-free within a year. Returning to the field in 2016, he finished his college career with a record-breaking 3,733 rushing yards and 56 touchdowns. Entering the NFL draft early, his success continued. Selected in the third round by the Pittsburgh Steelers, he quickly became one of the most beloved rookies in the league.
In Fear is a Choice, James candidly shares his experiences during his battle with cancer and beyond, encouraging readers and illustrating the spiritual truths and personal principles that got him through his darkest days. Conner’s warm, intimate, and inspiring story offers wisdom and advice for anyone who has faced adversity or the loss their dreams—and everyone who wants to learn how to tackle life’s problems with dignity, faith, and determination.
During his first two years at the University of Pittsburgh, running back James Conner became one of the Panthers’ biggest stars, breaking records and winning the adoration of fans. Then, in the first game of his junior year, disaster struck in the form of a torn MCL. During rehab, James’s health continued to inexplicably deteriorate until a chest X-ray and biopsy confirmed the unthinkable: a diagnosis of Hodgkin’s lymphoma. Suddenly, it wasn’t just the dream of an NFL career that was in jeopardy; it was James’s life. Yet when he shared the news of his diagnosis publicly, James rallied family, friends, and fans, with his message of hope and courage: “Fear is a choice. I choose not to fear cancer.” In just ten words, James defined his own journey on his own terms and refused to back down from one of the most dreaded diseases known to man.
Drawing strength from his faith in God and the support of his community and loved ones, James underwent treatment but continued to practice with his team despite the intense physical toll of chemotherapy. He was declared cancer-free within a year. Returning to the field in 2016, he finished his college career with a record-breaking 3,733 rushing yards and 56 touchdowns. Entering the NFL draft early, his success continued. Selected in the third round by the Pittsburgh Steelers, he quickly became one of the most beloved rookies in the league.
In Fear is a Choice, James candidly shares his experiences during his battle with cancer and beyond, encouraging readers and illustrating the spiritual truths and personal principles that got him through his darkest days. Conner’s warm, intimate, and inspiring story offers wisdom and advice for anyone who has faced adversity or the loss their dreams—and everyone who wants to learn how to tackle life’s problems with dignity, faith, and determination.
224 pages, Hardcover
First published June 16, 2020
43 people are currently reading
317 people want to read
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July 25, 2020"Life serves us up something we aren't expecting, haven't prepared for, and didn't want. When that happens, you really only have two choices. You can face your fears, or you can give into them. And I can tell you from experience, it's a lot easier to face your fears when you believe there's a purpose behind what you're experiencing. What you are going through right now is not the whole story—it's just one chapter along the way. There is a point to your pain. There is meaning behind your struggles. And what great story have you ever heard where there isn't conflict?"
I cried my way through this book. It's a story about perspective, patience, and perseverance. Whether you're a fan of James Conner or football, whether you're looking for a survivor story or a testament of faith, there's something in this book for everyone. Very inspiring and I would highly recommend.
I cried my way through this book. It's a story about perspective, patience, and perseverance. Whether you're a fan of James Conner or football, whether you're looking for a survivor story or a testament of faith, there's something in this book for everyone. Very inspiring and I would highly recommend.
September 9, 2023
4.5 Stars - Loved reading this! I didn’t know much about James Connor before this, but Ryan had this book and has always been a big fan. I decided to pick it up as one of my non-fiction books for 75 Hard. And WOW I’m so glad I did. He has such an inspiring story of resilience and faith, and this book is full of reminders on how blessed we are. Your story can be used for good no matter what, and God has a plan through every high and low. And fear is a choice.
James Connor also really hit home about how great we all can be, but we must but in the work and the effort and the discipline to get there. One quote that stuck with me: “The first step in getting better is showing up. You can’t learn if you aren’t there.”
James Connor also really hit home about how great we all can be, but we must but in the work and the effort and the discipline to get there. One quote that stuck with me: “The first step in getting better is showing up. You can’t learn if you aren’t there.”
August 27, 2020
James Connor seemed to have everything going or him. Growing up in a working class family in Erie, Pennsylvania he worked hard to earn a football scholarship at the University of Pittsburgh. Then after an outstanding sophomore season at running back, he learned that he had Hodgkin's lymphoma. His battle to not only overcome the disease but also to become an important member of the Pittsburgh Steelers is a story that is a terrific read.
In the world of sports memoirs, one will usually read about the author's childhood, overcoming whatever obstacles came his way and that was able to be achieved through the love of friends, family or other important people in the athlete's life. Many times, there is introspection by the author to describe how he or she came to see what it truly important in life. Of course, there is descriptions of the success of the athlete in the chosen sport and how his or her career has gone. This book has all of those elements.
So, if this has all the typical elements of a sports memoir, what makes this one so good? It is the combination of the story told, the honesty and emotions that Connor describes in his journey and the devotion Connor has to his Christian faith, the important people in his life and even those who he met only briefly but told him how much his story meant to them. While reading the book, especially during his chemotherapy, it is clear to the reader that Connor has much love to give and will work hard at whatever task is at hand, whether undergoing intravenous chemotherapy or extra time in the weight room.
One story that illustrates his work ethic was during a chemotherapy session, he was studying other college running backs by watching video on his phone while the drugs dripped in the bags. By studying them, he was determined to not only return to the field after beating the cancer, but also to be a better running back. For the love he expresses for practically everyone in his life, just reading about his interactions with everyone at the oncology clinic – from the doctors and nurses to the cafeteria and cleaning staff – it is clear that he believes every single person there played an important part of his recovery.
It is hard to write about what a pleasure it was to read this book because no description of Connor's words will do justice to his story or the way he wants to tell it. It is easy to see why his jersey has been one of the best selling NFL jersey since he came into the league given his humility and deeply felt thanks when telling his story. There isn't a lot of football talk in this book, so even if a reader is not much of a football fan, there is a lot to enjoy while reading this book.
I wish to thank HarperCollins Publishers for providing a copy of the book via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
https://sportsbookguy.blogspot.com/20...
In the world of sports memoirs, one will usually read about the author's childhood, overcoming whatever obstacles came his way and that was able to be achieved through the love of friends, family or other important people in the athlete's life. Many times, there is introspection by the author to describe how he or she came to see what it truly important in life. Of course, there is descriptions of the success of the athlete in the chosen sport and how his or her career has gone. This book has all of those elements.
So, if this has all the typical elements of a sports memoir, what makes this one so good? It is the combination of the story told, the honesty and emotions that Connor describes in his journey and the devotion Connor has to his Christian faith, the important people in his life and even those who he met only briefly but told him how much his story meant to them. While reading the book, especially during his chemotherapy, it is clear to the reader that Connor has much love to give and will work hard at whatever task is at hand, whether undergoing intravenous chemotherapy or extra time in the weight room.
One story that illustrates his work ethic was during a chemotherapy session, he was studying other college running backs by watching video on his phone while the drugs dripped in the bags. By studying them, he was determined to not only return to the field after beating the cancer, but also to be a better running back. For the love he expresses for practically everyone in his life, just reading about his interactions with everyone at the oncology clinic – from the doctors and nurses to the cafeteria and cleaning staff – it is clear that he believes every single person there played an important part of his recovery.
It is hard to write about what a pleasure it was to read this book because no description of Connor's words will do justice to his story or the way he wants to tell it. It is easy to see why his jersey has been one of the best selling NFL jersey since he came into the league given his humility and deeply felt thanks when telling his story. There isn't a lot of football talk in this book, so even if a reader is not much of a football fan, there is a lot to enjoy while reading this book.
I wish to thank HarperCollins Publishers for providing a copy of the book via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
https://sportsbookguy.blogspot.com/20...
January 3, 2021
Simply moving. No other words to describe how reading this book made me feel. I know so many people who have battled cancer, some who have beat it and others who were called home. But regardless, this book hit home for an entirely different reason. It was how James Conner leaned on his faith and because of it was able to find his purpose. It resonated with me as I try and find my purpose after my loss. Recommend it for anyone struggling with cancer, their faith or finding a purpose.
4.5 stars IMO
4.5 stars IMO
June 26, 2020
Conner Strong
I was overcome with emotion the night that my beloved Steelers drafted James Conner. I felt that same tidal wave of emotions as I read this book. Not only did I find a deeper love and respect for James, I fell in love with his older brothers too. James has a remarkable testimony. It was truly a joy to read about his journey. He painted my hometown in such a flattering way. He reminded me of how amazing the Hillman Cancer Center can be for it’s many patients. Reading this book has solidified my position as a lifelong James Conner fan.
I was overcome with emotion the night that my beloved Steelers drafted James Conner. I felt that same tidal wave of emotions as I read this book. Not only did I find a deeper love and respect for James, I fell in love with his older brothers too. James has a remarkable testimony. It was truly a joy to read about his journey. He painted my hometown in such a flattering way. He reminded me of how amazing the Hillman Cancer Center can be for it’s many patients. Reading this book has solidified my position as a lifelong James Conner fan.
July 29, 2020
Quick read and a good insight from James Conner during his cancer journey. I was suprised he was such a man of faith and was blown away by the maturity and poise of such a young man going through a major life battle. The book was VERY inspiring!
October 14, 2023
One of the better biography’s I have read. Exciting to learn about who James connor is not only as a player but a person.
May 12, 2021
I mean I already loved James Conner before reading this book, but now I love him even more! Erie represent!
September 22, 2020
Fear is a choice-James Conner Landon Daigle
In this book James Conner a running back for the University of Pittsburg coming of a remarkable season also ACC player of the year goes down with a torn MCL. With this injury he is ruled out for the rest of the season and while he's recovering in the hospital they find out he has lymphoma which is a kind of cancer. While he's battling cancer he's also trying to become in the NFL. Read this book to find out what problems he had and had to go through.
In this book James Conner a running back for the University of Pittsburg coming of a remarkable season also ACC player of the year goes down with a torn MCL. With this injury he is ruled out for the rest of the season and while he's recovering in the hospital they find out he has lymphoma which is a kind of cancer. While he's battling cancer he's also trying to become in the NFL. Read this book to find out what problems he had and had to go through.
June 21, 2020
When I first started this book I thought that I couldn’t read it. It was way to positive and upbeat and no one could be that way all the time. Yuk!
I kept reading though and my whole attitude about the book changed and at the end I was crying over the wonderful outlook and sincerity of James Conner. He has taken his hardships and turned them into positive lessons of life. He sees how our life is a gift from God and that you should be present in it and effect the ones around you for good.
I am a Steeler fan thanks to my Western Pennsylvania husband that is why I wanted to read this, but as I read it became much more than that! James Conner is an inspiring person for so much more then football.
I received a copy from the publisher through NetGalley for an honest review. I am so glad I got to read this!
I kept reading though and my whole attitude about the book changed and at the end I was crying over the wonderful outlook and sincerity of James Conner. He has taken his hardships and turned them into positive lessons of life. He sees how our life is a gift from God and that you should be present in it and effect the ones around you for good.
I am a Steeler fan thanks to my Western Pennsylvania husband that is why I wanted to read this, but as I read it became much more than that! James Conner is an inspiring person for so much more then football.
I received a copy from the publisher through NetGalley for an honest review. I am so glad I got to read this!
July 3, 2020
I wish I had the means to buy a copy of this book for every person I know. I'm a football fan. But I've never been a Steelers fan by any stretch of the imagination. I'm a Buffalo girl who wound transplanted in Steelers country my sophomore year of high school. It was painful.
But I like the town where James grew up. I go there several times a year. I recognized all the places he referenced. I even knew of one of the individuals he talked about. And when I heard his story several years ago, it touched me so deeply. I drafted him to my fantasy football team when he was still a rookie.
And now here is this beautiful, inspiring book that I could quote something from on almost every page. I'm so impressed with his outlook, his faith, his empathy.
People like James Conner make the world a better place.
Read this book. Bring tissues.
But I like the town where James grew up. I go there several times a year. I recognized all the places he referenced. I even knew of one of the individuals he talked about. And when I heard his story several years ago, it touched me so deeply. I drafted him to my fantasy football team when he was still a rookie.
And now here is this beautiful, inspiring book that I could quote something from on almost every page. I'm so impressed with his outlook, his faith, his empathy.
People like James Conner make the world a better place.
Read this book. Bring tissues.
October 9, 2020
This is an excellent book for fans of James Conner, the Pittsburgh Steelers, or athletes overcoming adversity. It's a wonderful testimony of a man who relied on his faith, family, and football to overcome a battle with cancer.
The strength of this book is in Conner's candid reflections on his life. Everything from interactions with his brothers growing up, reliance on his parents, or even his time playing for both the University of Pittsburgh Panthers and the NFL's Pittsburgh Steelers show a man of great character. It's evident that he works hard to be a standout athlete. Nothing has been given to Conner, which makes his rise to prominence all the more inspiring.
I was particularly moved by Conner's explanation of the hard times he experienced along the way. Even though he was a high quality high school player in Erie, PA, he was not receiving a lot of college attention. He attended a camp at Pitt and was offered a scholarship on the spot. By the way (mild spoiler), it was to play defensive line, not his pro position of running back! He showed that he is a special athlete with the kind of hard-nosed style that is a perfect fit for the Steel City.
If you're looking for a "football book" I would not recommend this. Conner doesn't break down X's and O's in this one. But I would recommend it for anyone facing medical uncertainty. I would definitely recommend it for people facing cancer treatment or supporting loved ones going through it. I even think this would be a good book for a mens' ministry, particularly in the Pittsburgh area. Conner's accessible storytelling is relatable even to those of us who never set foot on a D1 or professional football field. His encouragement to serve others and get the best out of yourself is true for anyone to read.
If you're looking for a holiday gift for a Steeler fan in your life, I would definitely consider this book.
The strength of this book is in Conner's candid reflections on his life. Everything from interactions with his brothers growing up, reliance on his parents, or even his time playing for both the University of Pittsburgh Panthers and the NFL's Pittsburgh Steelers show a man of great character. It's evident that he works hard to be a standout athlete. Nothing has been given to Conner, which makes his rise to prominence all the more inspiring.
I was particularly moved by Conner's explanation of the hard times he experienced along the way. Even though he was a high quality high school player in Erie, PA, he was not receiving a lot of college attention. He attended a camp at Pitt and was offered a scholarship on the spot. By the way (mild spoiler), it was to play defensive line, not his pro position of running back! He showed that he is a special athlete with the kind of hard-nosed style that is a perfect fit for the Steel City.
If you're looking for a "football book" I would not recommend this. Conner doesn't break down X's and O's in this one. But I would recommend it for anyone facing medical uncertainty. I would definitely recommend it for people facing cancer treatment or supporting loved ones going through it. I even think this would be a good book for a mens' ministry, particularly in the Pittsburgh area. Conner's accessible storytelling is relatable even to those of us who never set foot on a D1 or professional football field. His encouragement to serve others and get the best out of yourself is true for anyone to read.
If you're looking for a holiday gift for a Steeler fan in your life, I would definitely consider this book.
January 17, 2022
I think it's important to note that I write this as a football fan, and even more specifically a Pitt fan + alum and overall fan of James Conner. I was rooting for him throughout his college career, was so elated for him when he was drafted by the Steelers, and continue to follow his pro career. If you are in the same camp of being a Conner fan, this book will 100% cement of what you know of his character, spirit, drive, and purpose. I have an even greater appreciation for Conner after reading about his experience and his perspective on both life and adversity.
It was impossible not to get teary at certain points. Some parts that were especially moving for me were his recount of telling his Pitt teammates about his diagnosis (and their reaction), openly telling us about a moment where he felt hopeless when he was sick in his friend's treasured Jeep and how his friend showed up for him in that moment, and the ending where Conner tells us how he plays for more than himself every time he steps on the field.
I shy from giving this 5 stars - while every single message Conner delivers is important and inspiring, the delivery at times became lengthy and preachy, interrupting the flow of the book. I also appreciate Conner's deep connection to his Christian faith, however it's not something I personally relate to and could see it being distracting to other readers (note that this is NOT to say Conner should not have included it, since it's his truth and is so important to him).
Overall a solid sports related read with a great reminder that it often is about more than just a game. Conner is an inspiring individual providing simple yet impactful wisdom on how to be #connerstrong for your own tough times, but also in how to support and show up for others. Glad I gave this a listen on audible. Hail to Pitt. #connerstrong
It was impossible not to get teary at certain points. Some parts that were especially moving for me were his recount of telling his Pitt teammates about his diagnosis (and their reaction), openly telling us about a moment where he felt hopeless when he was sick in his friend's treasured Jeep and how his friend showed up for him in that moment, and the ending where Conner tells us how he plays for more than himself every time he steps on the field.
I shy from giving this 5 stars - while every single message Conner delivers is important and inspiring, the delivery at times became lengthy and preachy, interrupting the flow of the book. I also appreciate Conner's deep connection to his Christian faith, however it's not something I personally relate to and could see it being distracting to other readers (note that this is NOT to say Conner should not have included it, since it's his truth and is so important to him).
Overall a solid sports related read with a great reminder that it often is about more than just a game. Conner is an inspiring individual providing simple yet impactful wisdom on how to be #connerstrong for your own tough times, but also in how to support and show up for others. Glad I gave this a listen on audible. Hail to Pitt. #connerstrong
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 1, 2020
Book: fear is a choice
Why I picked this book is that this book has been very life-changing to me and other people in the world for example in the book it says how he had cancer and his dreams were to get to the NFL and he never quite he works as hard as he could to get to the NFL and accomplish his dreams he is now one of the NFL best running backs so the book was a very good book by he never gave up and he got together with another coach that had cancer and they worked as hard as they could to get to the NFL. Also, he had one of the most deadly cancers but he had family that stayed by his side during the entire thing and he had teammates the stayed by his side and once he found out the cancer was gone he was obviously very happy as anyone would be when they find out the cancer is gone and he got drafted to his home town team and is one of the best running backs. Also, the book was very impactful to me to see what people go thought and how hard it is to accomplish your dreams but when you do it is the best feeling in the world and to see what people actually went thought and how extremely lucky I am to not go thought theses thing and to have a very incredibly good life. So it is in the title fear is a choice if you have fear going through things in life you will not get anything accomplished but if you have confidence you can get through anything you want to get through. But this is a very good book that really impacted my life.
Why I picked this book is that this book has been very life-changing to me and other people in the world for example in the book it says how he had cancer and his dreams were to get to the NFL and he never quite he works as hard as he could to get to the NFL and accomplish his dreams he is now one of the NFL best running backs so the book was a very good book by he never gave up and he got together with another coach that had cancer and they worked as hard as they could to get to the NFL. Also, he had one of the most deadly cancers but he had family that stayed by his side during the entire thing and he had teammates the stayed by his side and once he found out the cancer was gone he was obviously very happy as anyone would be when they find out the cancer is gone and he got drafted to his home town team and is one of the best running backs. Also, the book was very impactful to me to see what people go thought and how hard it is to accomplish your dreams but when you do it is the best feeling in the world and to see what people actually went thought and how extremely lucky I am to not go thought theses thing and to have a very incredibly good life. So it is in the title fear is a choice if you have fear going through things in life you will not get anything accomplished but if you have confidence you can get through anything you want to get through. But this is a very good book that really impacted my life.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 13, 2020
Thank you NetGalley for the ARC of Fear Is A Choice by James Conner that I read and reviewed.
I am a huge Steelers fans so when I saw this book I had to read it because I have grown to love Conner in the field so I wanted to learn more about him. Reading this book I learned so much about what a special man he off the field as well. I was not sure if the book would be one of those “I am great” things but this book truly shows what a humble and special man he is. He went through so much with his cancer diagnosis and it might have broken some people but it motivated him and made him look inside himself and to God and made him better himself and his game.
Fear Is A Choice I found very interesting because Conner was so open and real in this book and it really did not talk about what his career has done to improve his life financially. Instead this book is more about how his life has improved emotionally and spiritually since his cancer diagnosis and how he is trying to be more selfless now. I have more respect for him now has a human overall then I had before and I really liked him as a football player before. I really loved this insight into James Conner the man. Not just James Conner the football player.
Fear Is a Choice gets five out five stars from me.
I am a huge Steelers fans so when I saw this book I had to read it because I have grown to love Conner in the field so I wanted to learn more about him. Reading this book I learned so much about what a special man he off the field as well. I was not sure if the book would be one of those “I am great” things but this book truly shows what a humble and special man he is. He went through so much with his cancer diagnosis and it might have broken some people but it motivated him and made him look inside himself and to God and made him better himself and his game.
Fear Is A Choice I found very interesting because Conner was so open and real in this book and it really did not talk about what his career has done to improve his life financially. Instead this book is more about how his life has improved emotionally and spiritually since his cancer diagnosis and how he is trying to be more selfless now. I have more respect for him now has a human overall then I had before and I really liked him as a football player before. I really loved this insight into James Conner the man. Not just James Conner the football player.
Fear Is a Choice gets five out five stars from me.
July 25, 2025
What an extraordinary young man with an amazing testimony of overcoming injury and then cancer to pursue his goals as an NFL running back. No doubt his faith in God, Scripture with the support from his family and friends carried him through the darkest days of his young life as he went through chemotherapy and the subsequent battle to get back into shape and play football. And what he found was a journey that he could take with others that inspired him and consequently made him a role model and inspiration to many across this country and world. As he said: "I would not give fear a foothold or even entertain it as an option." He has a really good chapter on goals and targets and how you need to be willing to keep the destination and the journey in mind. He hit the nail on the head when he describes encouragement as the words and actions to put courage into someone by building up their heart. Many would benefit from reading his story and following his career.
May 19, 2020
Thank you to Net Galley and the publisher for an advance copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
My goodness, if more people had a tiny fraction of the faith, work ethic, and positivity that James Connor has, the world would be a much better place. As a Steelers fan, I know about Connor’s achievements on the field, and I knew he had survived cancer. What I didn’t know is how incredible his attitude was through it all, and what an amazing support system he has in his family and friends. Yes, this book is filled with every cliche you can think of related to working hard and remaining positive, but since James Connor truly lives every one of those statements, they don’t feel false. James Connor is the real deal, and this book should be required reading for every high school athlete who dreams of becoming a professional.
My goodness, if more people had a tiny fraction of the faith, work ethic, and positivity that James Connor has, the world would be a much better place. As a Steelers fan, I know about Connor’s achievements on the field, and I knew he had survived cancer. What I didn’t know is how incredible his attitude was through it all, and what an amazing support system he has in his family and friends. Yes, this book is filled with every cliche you can think of related to working hard and remaining positive, but since James Connor truly lives every one of those statements, they don’t feel false. James Connor is the real deal, and this book should be required reading for every high school athlete who dreams of becoming a professional.
April 22, 2022
As a die-hard Steelers fan, I had to read this (even though he doesn’t play for them anymore). Of course I know all about his cancer diagnosis - anyone who ever watched him play his first couple years in the NFL was reminded by the announcers on practically every play he made! But I didn’t know how spiritual he was or what a great guy he seems to be. This book is not just about his journey from college, to beating cancer, to playing in the NFL. It’s a book that helps guide anyone going through tough times with motivation and reminders that God always has a plan for you. My biggest complaint was that it got to be repetitive and since I’m not the kind of person who enjoys motivational speakers, I got a bit bored. But that’s just me, I think for others, it’s a great reference for people who are going through a very difficult situation.
December 29, 2020
I don't give many five star reviews, but I would recommend this book to most everyone.
I have to admit I am a Steelers and wanted the book to read his story as a sports fan, but wasn't expecting this.
While inspiring, it is more a self-help book providing a framework for how to approach life. That framework is presented through James Conner's journey, how he navigated it and what lessons he learned from it.
His career as a football player at Pitt and then with the Steelers, help tell the story, and there are references to moments he had as a football player, but this not a sports book.
The focus is on shaping your life perspective and it was extremely well done.
I have to admit I am a Steelers and wanted the book to read his story as a sports fan, but wasn't expecting this.
While inspiring, it is more a self-help book providing a framework for how to approach life. That framework is presented through James Conner's journey, how he navigated it and what lessons he learned from it.
His career as a football player at Pitt and then with the Steelers, help tell the story, and there are references to moments he had as a football player, but this not a sports book.
The focus is on shaping your life perspective and it was extremely well done.
January 1, 2022
James Conner's story is a great example of strength in faith, family, and love. James was an exceptional football player at McDowell High School in Erie PA. He earned a scholarship to the University of Pittsburgh. After a stellar sophomore season, he was diagnosed with Hodgkin's Lymphoma. He fought back and found strength in his faith and family. He returned to play for Pitt in his senior year and was then drafted to the Pittsburgh Steelers.
Fear is a Choice is an awesome example of what it may take to fight the big C. Although I was already a fan of James Conner, this book gave me great insight into what makes him so special.
Fear is a Choice is an awesome example of what it may take to fight the big C. Although I was already a fan of James Conner, this book gave me great insight into what makes him so special.
January 3, 2021
Speechless. This story is powerful, raw, honest, moving, inspirational, and entirely centered around faith. I have always been a fan of James Conner since his days at Pitt, but after reading his autobiography, I have reached a whole new level of appreciation for him both on and off the football field. His experiences and advice can connect with any reader and the obstacles they are facing. Above all else, I want to thank James Conner for writing this remarkable story, encouraging us with the power of prayer, and instilling in us that God is in control.
Read
March 5, 2025I saw from a book tok influencer that she does not write memoirs. And I am going to adopt that method because they are truly hard to rate and I feel like you can’t put a rating on someone’s real life experiences.
What I will say about this book is that I really enjoyed it as a Steelers fan and as a Pitt fan. James Connor’s perseverance, courage and his faith are seen throughout the book and I found it truly inspiring. I loved how he talked openly about his faith .
My favorite takeaways are the following : fear is a choice, all we go through has a purpose.
What I will say about this book is that I really enjoyed it as a Steelers fan and as a Pitt fan. James Connor’s perseverance, courage and his faith are seen throughout the book and I found it truly inspiring. I loved how he talked openly about his faith .
My favorite takeaways are the following : fear is a choice, all we go through has a purpose.
September 15, 2025
4⭐️My very first Pitt Football Game as a Freshman in the Pitt Marching Band was the Youngstown State game where James Conner left with his MCL injury. My sophomore year I had the privilege to watch him play in some of my favorite football games to date, and not long after we were cheering for him on the Steelers. Reading his story now has me recalling all of those Pitt memories as a fan.
James Conner’s faith and reflection on life in this book is inspiring to say the least. He tells his story honestly, with a constant focus on humility. I would absolutely recommend this read.
James Conner’s faith and reflection on life in this book is inspiring to say the least. He tells his story honestly, with a constant focus on humility. I would absolutely recommend this read.
May 21, 2022
I had the same cancer that James Conner was diagnosed with when he was at Pitt. He was a very powerful reminder how lucky James and I are here to say we are cancer survivors. I’m a Baltimore Ravens fan thru and thru but I will also pull for James whatever team he plays for ever. I cried several times reading this book and it was nice to see someone else’s perspective on fighting cancer and going thru chemo.
July 26, 2022
Often, memoirs that use 2nd-person point of view sound preachy or didactic. This book's use of that perspective comes off as a friend speaking to the reader. It's not self-serving, but the personal anecdotes and memories serve as specific examples of the kind of person he is and just how many other people were part of his success (athletically, spiritually, socially, etc.). Each chapter's title is referenced throughout it as a theme. Well-organized, honest, and helpful book.
June 15, 2020
As a Steelers fan I was so happy to receive a ARC of this book and let me just say that it did not disappoint I loved hearing about James Conner and his strength and how he kept all his strength through all that he went through, I cannot wait to buy a physical copy of this book, This will make you laugh and cry and be happy all in one.
August 10, 2020
James did a really good job injecting all of the emotions he and his community felt when he was going through cancer. This book is a great autobiography about his perseverance and trusting in God to build the path of a brighter future than what your present struggles may ensure. Inspirational, authentic, and definitely worth reading for any fan apart of Steelers Nation.
November 14, 2022
James has a very moving biography.
Instead of feeling sorry,he decided it was his time and his moment to shine in the NFL after fighting cancer. He tackled all of his life long achievements head on and never let fear be a choice.
I would definitely read when looking for inspiration and motivation to never let fear be a choice.
Instead of feeling sorry,he decided it was his time and his moment to shine in the NFL after fighting cancer. He tackled all of his life long achievements head on and never let fear be a choice.
I would definitely read when looking for inspiration and motivation to never let fear be a choice.
January 4, 2023
What an extraordinary story. James Conner, I’m at a loss for words. Yes, he is an extremely talented NFL player and he’s worked hard to get here. He’s also a cancer survivor and that plays a huge role in his life as well. But what I loved about the book is his constant reliance and love for God. Every time I opened up this book I could feel the love of Christ and James is a disciple of the Word.
January 22, 2024
Absolutely loved this book! I didn’t know much of Connor outside of Hard Knox on Max, but his story was very inspiring. Easy to read, easy to follow, and feel good story. Would recommend for a read when you need some motivation and perspective.
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