If you love football and it is your only care in the world, Odessa is the place for you. In the town of Odessa in west Texas, there is a team named the Permian Panthers, who in their sacred black and white, put on a show every Friday night under gleaming lights. In a separated town of black and white, football brings all races together.
Football in the town of Odessa is everything. It is not only a game, but a way of life. From the first time a State Championship is won by the Panthers, they become obsessed with winning. It shows football is the true care of the town. On Friday nights, all shops close early and all residents head to Ratliff Stadium. The 1988 team is expected to win the State Championship.
The oil business fuels the economy of Odessa. When the price of oil increases, the town is happy. When the price of oil decreases, people lose jobs, money, and even family. The one thing which brings all people of all ages together is MOJO football.
Friday Night Lights is written in an interesting way for it tells a number of stories and events in the history of Odessa. We hear about past football players, previous residents, and even has-been millionaires. At one point we are hearing about the Panthers playing a football game, and the next about a man who is booming in the oil business. Most oil workers and owners live well in the boom. In Odessa, when oil prices drastically drop, unemployment and debt sky-rocket.
There is a plethora of protagonists in Friday Night Lights. Mike Winchell, the quarterback, leads a confusing life and has many ups and downs throughout the season. Head Coach, Gary Gaines, stands the highest above all protagonists. The 1988 season is his third year and great things are expected from him. After two losses by one point each, things are not so bright for this coach. Threatening letters are sent to him and “for sale” signs are planted in his front yard. Keeping his family together is tough, and it does not help he stays in the coaching office until midnight preparing for games. Being head coach is a nerve racking job. As most coaches should be tough and inconsiderate, Gary is seen as a nice guy. The supporters of the team hate nice guys. It seems it is impossible to please the town, unless you are a winner.
This novel is interesting because it tells the history of the town, and gives a synopsis of the 1988 season. It is interesting to me because I have a passion for football. I have seen the movie and would suggest both the movie and book to anyone who enjoys Friday night football.
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