I Beat the Odds: From Homelessness, to The Blind Side, and Beyond

Watch The Blind Side and compare its depiction of Michael Oher’s story to what you read in I Beat the Odds, noting any discrepancies or inaccuracies. Why do you think the film portrayed Oher’s life this way?

Oher writes that people were good to him at Briarcrest Christian School, and it helped pave the way for his success. However, Briarcrest began in 1973 as a segregation academy. What does this mean and how did the academy change over time? Trace the transformation of its original mission and student body to those of today.

Choose a public figure or someone you know personally (if they are willing) who went through the foster care system and tell their story. How did it differ from or mirror Oher’s experience? What factors might account for these differences and similarities (i.e., class, race, etc.)?

Oher does not delve into him being Black and the Tuohys being white. Some think that white people should not be allowed to adopt or foster Black children because they are unable to fully give them a sense of their own heritage and culture. According to this argument, only Black adults can do so. Do you agree or disagree? Why?

Oher briefly covers Memphis’s history of public housing as it pertains to his upbringing. When first established, projects were seen as an effective way to provide low-income housing, especially in urban areas. As time went on, however, criticisms emerged about this approach to housing, which claimed detrimental effects on the residents. What exactly were these criticisms? How is public housing and its issues being addressed today? Use specific examples to support your answers.

Oher’s discovery of his learning style greatly improved his studying. What are learning styles and why are they important? What is your preferred learning style?

Professional sports provided Oher with a dream, a ticket out of the projects. Thousands of children share this dream of “making it”—but young Oher didn’t just want it, he worked for it. Still, is this a realistic dream for children who wish to better their lives? What are some other career paths and resources that may be more practical?

If you have you ever mentored or tutored someone living in difficult circumstances, write about the experience. How did you become involved with this person, how long did you work together, and what activities did you do together? What advice would you give a new (or potential) mentor?