Huskers is about an introspective and resourceful young boy who becomes a reluctant leader when six of his friends, losers all, choose to follow him on a journey. It is about their desire and their need to become more than the little boys they perceive themselves to be. Huskers is an account of their quest and how, together, they learn to accept and overcome their individual flaws, struggle with their growing awareness of girls, and confront and conquer their personal demons. Along the broken and rocky climb, each finds inner strength and, as a team, they discover their character and realize the true value of sport. Seen through the clarity of a simpler time and place—rural Nebraska in 1960, Huskers is a testimony to the true values children should be learning through participation in youth sports.

USA Best Book Awards: Fiction: General, Finalist