The Prodigy - by John Feinstein (Paperback)

Book Synopsis

From award-winning sportswriter John Feinstein, a YA novel about a teen golfer poised to blaze his way into Masters Tournament history--and he'll face secrecy, sacrifice, and the decision of a lifetime to get there.

Seventeen-year-old Frank Baker is a golfing sensation. He's set to earn a full-ride scholarship to play at the university of his choice, but his single dad wants him to skip college and turn pro--golf has taken its toll on the family bank account, and his dad is eager to start cashing in on his son's prowess. Frank knows he isn't ready for life on the pro tour--regardless of the potential riches--so his swing coach enlists a professional golfer turned journalist to be Frank's secret adviser.

Pressure mounts when, after reaching the final of the U.S. Amateur tournament, Frank wins an automatic invite to the Masters. And when the prodigy, against all odds, starts tearing up the course at Augusta National, sponsors are lined up to throw money at him--and his father. But Frank's entry in the Masters hinges on maintaining his standing as an amateur. Can he and his secret adviser--who has his own conflicts--keep Frank's dad at bay long enough to bring home the legendary green jacket?

Review Quotes

"Feinstein does a good job of driving his tale down the fairway by putting his protagonist through a series of spectacular feats and comebacks on real courses and filling out his cast with actual renowned golf pros, journalists, and officials . . . Well below par. . .in the very best sense." --Kirkus Reviews

"A definite must-read for golfers and perhaps other sports fans. Readers unfamiliar with golf will learn a lot about how the tournaments operate, and any reader will feel compassion for a teen viewed as a commodity in an adult world." --VOYA

"Though some may not equate the sport of golf with suspense, Feinstein creates realistic tension, dramatic comebacks, and astounding feats that will leave readers rooting for the protagonist. . .Add this compelling story to libraries with sports fiction fans." --School Library Journal

"[Feinstein] has written a golf-themed tale intended for a young adult audience--though this reviewer believes golf enthusiasts of any age will enjoy it. . .Feinstein is a gifted storyteller and his narrative moves at a swift pace." --Met Golfer

About the Author

John Feinstein is the author of more than forty books, including two #1 New York Times bestsellers: A Season on the Brink and A Good Walk Spoiled. He is also the author of numerous sports-related mysteries and adventures for young readers, including Backfield Boys and The Prodigy. His first YA mystery, Last Shot, won the Edgar Allen Poe Award. John has also contributed to The Washington Post, Sports Illustrated, Golf Digest, Golf Channel, Sirius XM, CBS Sports Radio, Comcast SportsNet, UMBC Basketball, and The Navy Football Radio Network. feinsteinbooks.com