Behind the line A story of college life and football By: Ralph Henry Barbour (1870-1944)
Behind the Line: A Story of College Life and Football by Ralph Henry Barbour is an engaging and enthralling novel that takes readers on a gripping journey through the world of college football. Set against the backdrop of a small New England town, the book delves into the lives of its diverse cast of characters, highlighting their struggles, triumphs, and the bonds they form on and off the field. Barbour's writing style is captivating and immersive, allowing readers to vividly imagine the scenes and emotions described. The author skillfully combines his extensive knowledge of football with his talent for storytelling, creating a narrative that will appeal to both sports enthusiasts and those who enjoy character-driven stories. One of the book's strengths lies in its well-developed and relatable characters. From the main protagonist, Richard, an underdog on the football team, to his teammates and friends, each character has a distinct personality and background that adds depth and realism to the story. Barbour expertly explores complex themes such as friendship, loyalty, teamwork, and the importance of perseverance. The author's thorough understanding of college football shines through in the meticulous descriptions of the games and training sessions. Readers can feel the adrenaline rush as the team takes to the field, experiencing the highs and lows alongside the characters. Barbour's attention to detail in describing the strategies, plays, and dynamics of the game adds authenticity and excitement to the narrative. Furthermore, Behind the Line goes beyond football, delving into the personal lives of the characters and addressing various social issues prevalent in the early 20th century. Themes of class divisions, ambition, and the pursuit of dreams are interwoven into the plot, making the story more than just a sports novel. However, the pacing of the book may feel slow at times, especially during the detailed game sequences. Some readers may prefer a more fast-paced narrative style, whereas others may appreciate the opportunity to delve deeper into the intricacies of the sport. In conclusion, Behind the Line: A Story of College Life and Football is a captivating read that seamlessly combines the excitement of college football with relatable characters and thought-provoking themes. Ralph Henry Barbour's writing is compelling, making it difficult to put the book down. Whether you're a die-hard football fan or simply enjoy a well-crafted tale, this novel is a worthwhile addition to your reading list. First Page: BEHIND THE LINE A Story of College Life and Football by RALPH HENRY BARBOUR Author of The Half Back , Captain of the Crew , and For the Honor of the School Illustrated by C.M. Relyea 1902 [Illustration: A critical moment] [Illustration] TO MY MOTHER PREFATORY NOTE The Author takes pleasure in acknowledging his indebtedness to Mr. Lorin F. Deland, of Boston, for the football play described in Chapter XV. CONTENTS CHAPTER I. HEROES IN MOLESKIN II. PAUL CHANGES HIS MIND III. IN NEW QUARTERS IV. NEIL MAKES ACQUAINTANCES V. AND SHOWS HIS METTLE VI. MILLS, HEAD COACH VII. THE GENTLE ART OF HANDLING PUNTS VIII. THE KIDNAPING IX. THE BROKEN TRICYCLE X. NEIL MAKES THE VARSITY XI. THE RESULT OF A FUMBLE XII. ON THE HOSPITAL LIST XIII. SYDNEY STUDIES STRATEGY XIV. MAKES A CALL XV. AND TELLS OF A DREAM XVI. ROBINSON SENDS A PROTEST XVII. A PLAN AND A CONFESSION XVIII. NEIL is TAKEN OUT XIX. ON THE EVE OF BATTLE XX. COWAN BECOMES INDIGNANT XXI. THE "ANTIDOTE" IS ADMINISTERED XXII. BETWEEN THE HALVES XXIII. NEIL GOES IN XXIV. AFTER THE BATTLE LIST OF ILLUSTKATIONS A critical moment (frontispiece) Getting settled The vine swayed at every strain Hiding his face, he cried for help "I guess you've broken down," said Neil Mills studied the diagram in silence CHAPTER I HEROES IN MOLESKIN "Third down, four yards to gain!" The referee trotted out of the scrimmage line and blew his whistle; the Hillton quarter back crouched again behind the big center; the other backs scurried to their places as though for a kick... Continue reading book >>

Behind the line A story of college life and football By: Ralph Henry Barbour (1870-1944)

Behind the Line: A Story of College Life and Football by Ralph Henry Barbour is an engaging and enthralling novel that takes readers on a gripping journey through the world of college football. Set against the backdrop of a small New England town, the book delves into the lives of its diverse cast of characters, highlighting their struggles, triumphs, and the bonds they form on and off the field.

Barbour's writing style is captivating and immersive, allowing readers to vividly imagine the scenes and emotions described. The author skillfully combines his extensive knowledge of football with his talent for storytelling, creating a narrative that will appeal to both sports enthusiasts and those who enjoy character-driven stories.

One of the book's strengths lies in its well-developed and relatable characters. From the main protagonist, Richard, an underdog on the football team, to his teammates and friends, each character has a distinct personality and background that adds depth and realism to the story. Barbour expertly explores complex themes such as friendship, loyalty, teamwork, and the importance of perseverance.

The author's thorough understanding of college football shines through in the meticulous descriptions of the games and training sessions. Readers can feel the adrenaline rush as the team takes to the field, experiencing the highs and lows alongside the characters. Barbour's attention to detail in describing the strategies, plays, and dynamics of the game adds authenticity and excitement to the narrative.

Furthermore, Behind the Line goes beyond football, delving into the personal lives of the characters and addressing various social issues prevalent in the early 20th century. Themes of class divisions, ambition, and the pursuit of dreams are interwoven into the plot, making the story more than just a sports novel.

However, the pacing of the book may feel slow at times, especially during the detailed game sequences. Some readers may prefer a more fast-paced narrative style, whereas others may appreciate the opportunity to delve deeper into the intricacies of the sport.

In conclusion, Behind the Line: A Story of College Life and Football is a captivating read that seamlessly combines the excitement of college football with relatable characters and thought-provoking themes. Ralph Henry Barbour's writing is compelling, making it difficult to put the book down. Whether you're a die-hard football fan or simply enjoy a well-crafted tale, this novel is a worthwhile addition to your reading list.

First Page:

BEHIND THE LINE

A Story of College Life and Football

by RALPH HENRY BARBOUR Author of The Half Back , Captain of the Crew , and For the Honor of the School

Illustrated by C.M. Relyea

1902

[Illustration: A critical moment]

[Illustration]

TO MY MOTHER

PREFATORY NOTE

The Author takes pleasure in acknowledging his indebtedness to Mr. Lorin F. Deland, of Boston, for the football play described in Chapter XV.

CONTENTS

CHAPTER I. HEROES IN MOLESKIN II. PAUL CHANGES HIS MIND III. IN NEW QUARTERS IV. NEIL MAKES ACQUAINTANCES V. AND SHOWS HIS METTLE VI. MILLS, HEAD COACH VII. THE GENTLE ART OF HANDLING PUNTS VIII. THE KIDNAPING IX. THE BROKEN TRICYCLE X. NEIL MAKES THE VARSITY XI. THE RESULT OF A FUMBLE XII. ON THE HOSPITAL LIST XIII. SYDNEY STUDIES STRATEGY XIV. MAKES A CALL XV. AND TELLS OF A DREAM XVI. ROBINSON SENDS A PROTEST XVII. A PLAN AND A CONFESSION XVIII. NEIL is TAKEN OUT XIX. ON THE EVE OF BATTLE XX. COWAN BECOMES INDIGNANT XXI. THE "ANTIDOTE" IS ADMINISTERED XXII. BETWEEN THE HALVES XXIII. NEIL GOES IN XXIV. AFTER THE BATTLE

LIST OF ILLUSTKATIONS

A critical moment (frontispiece)

Getting settled

The vine swayed at every strain

Hiding his face, he cried for help

"I guess you've broken down," said Neil

Mills studied the diagram in silence

CHAPTER I

HEROES IN MOLESKIN

"Third down, four yards to gain!"

The referee trotted out of the scrimmage line and blew his whistle; the Hillton quarter back crouched again behind the big center; the other backs scurried to their places as though for a kick... Continue reading book >>

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