Yes I Can!: Struggles from Childhood to the NFL [Hardcover]

Neil Smith (Author), Brad Hamann (Contributor)

Book Description

Age Level: 4 and up | Grade Level: P and up

Tells the story of the Denver Bronco's fight to overcome dyslexia, graduate from high school, and become a successful NFL player.

Editorial Reviews

Review

Neil offers encouragement to children throughout his book, urging them to never stop trying and never let a disability hold them back. -- Colorado Parent

About the Author

Neil Smith was born on April 10, 1966 in New Orleans, Louisiana and has always been extremely close to his family, especially his mom Lutisha. Neil was an all-area and all-district football and basketball player at McDonough 35 High School in New Orleans. Neil graduated and went on to play football for the Cornhuskers of the University of Nebraska, where he earned All-American honors. In the 1988 NFL draft, he was selected second overall by the Kansas City Chiefs for whom he played nine seasons. He joined the Denver Broncos in 1997 as an unrestricted free agent, and helped them defeat the Green Bay Packers in Super Bowl XXXII. Neil has appeared in six Pro Bowls. Neil has been involved in various community outreach projects directed toward youth and serves as the national spokesman for the "Yes I Can" Foundation, which encourages enhances and empowers children and youth with disabilities to attain their greatest potential. In 1995, Smith, who is dyslexic, received the Lab School of Washington's 11th Annual Outstanding Learning Disabled Achievers Award.

Brad Harmann is a regular contributor to Sports Illustrated for Kids. A native New Yorker and graduate of Parson's School of Design he is also an illustrator and graphic artist.

Product Details

• Reading level: Ages 4 and up
  
• Hardcover: 40 pages
• Publisher: Taylor Trade Publishing (October 1, 1998)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 1886110638
• ISBN-13: 978-1886110632
• Product Dimensions: 10.6 x 10.6 x 0.4 inches
• Shipping Weight: 1.2 pounds (View shipping rates and policies)
• Average Customer Review: 5.0 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (4 customer reviews)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #2,143,017 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)

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Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

2 of 2 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars An offer of hope and understanding., February 22, 1999

By A Customer

This review is from: Yes I Can!: Struggles from Childhood to the NFL (Hardcover)

Everyone who has serious reading problems needs this book. It is a very special story of success told so children can understand. It is written in a 40 page picture book format.

5.0 out of 5 stars This is an awesome book!!, January 18, 2012

By 

darbysue - See all my reviews

Amazon Verified Purchase

This review is from: Yes I Can!: Struggles from Childhood to the NFL (Hardcover)

Last summer we had the privilege of having Neil Smith come and visit our small town for vacation bible school. We ordered the books, to have him sign them, not really knowing much about the book. After meeting him, I am more than impressed by his story. Once the book was read to my six year old, my thoughts about him and his book have gone up even a higher notch. If you have a child who is struggling with school or life, this is a great book about being able to overcome your weaknesses. Neil struggled with school and family issues, but did not let that stop him from becoming a great player and a good man. I was there for the signing, and Neil gave every child and adult his full attention, and was as nice to the first as he was to the two hundredth person he signed for. I only meet him that one time, but he made such a lasting impression. I would recommend this book to all ages especially if you are a Broncos or KC Chief fan!!!

5.0 out of 5 stars A Winner!, August 22, 2005

By 

Fletcherfan (Douglasville, GA United States) - See all my reviews

This review is from: Yes I Can!: Struggles from Childhood to the NFL (Hardcover)

I love this book. I am a special education teacher in an interrelated setting. Many of my students are young athletic males that struggle with a disability. I loved the format of the book and the personal insight that Neil gives in regards to his learning disability. My kids were amazed that Neil had tests read to him while he was in the NFL. They recognized the modifications that teachers used for him to help him reach his goal. This book is a must for any teacher with student overcoming a disability.