Sooley by John Grisham follows the journey of Samuel “Sooley” Sooleymon, a 17-year-old basketball prodigy from South Sudan. Discovered during a youth tournament in the United States, Sooley earns a scholarship to play college basketball at North Carolina Central University. While in America, he learns that his village has been destroyed in the civil war, and his family is displaced. Determined to succeed, Sooley dedicates himself to improving his game, quickly becoming a standout player and leading his team to unexpected victories.

The novel explores themes of resilience, hope, and the power of sports to change lives. Grisham delves into the challenges faced by refugees and the impact of war on individuals and communities. Sooley is a compelling story of ambition and perseverance, highlighting the transformative journey of a young man striving to reunite with his family and build a better future¹.