Stefan Mattessich’s Point Guard takes readers on a journey through the rugged beauty of Mendocino, California, while unpacking the complexities of adolescence, community, and self-discovery. The protagonist, Woody, navigates friendships, basketball, and the undercurrents of small-town life, all against the backdrop of a windswept coast. The story is rich with vivid descriptions and emotional depth, tying personal growth to the relentless rhythms of nature and the pressures of a fading community.

What struck me most about the book was the emotional honesty of its characters, especially Woody. Through his eyes, we see the raw beauty and the quiet despair of Mendocino. The basketball court becomes a metaphor for life, a place where camaraderie, competition, and personal demons collide. The intense scene where Woody and his friend Jordi struggle under the critical gaze of Coach is a standout. These moments make the book deeply relatable and occasionally heart-wrenching.

Mattessich’s prose blends the poetic with the straightforward, creating a rhythm that mirrors the ebb and flow of the tides. One memorable passage reflects Woody’s feelings about the sea: “To those who live by it, the sea is less a comfort than a disquiet, a dread.” This sentence encapsulates both the physical landscape and the emotional terrain of the story. At times, though, the pacing slows as the prose becomes contemplative. While this adds texture, it occasionally slows the momentum, especially during pivotal plot developments.

Another highlight is the nuanced exploration of relationships. Woody’s longing for Suzanne, his complicated friendship with Jordi, and his grudging admiration for Chase are beautifully layered. When Chase arrives and upends the group dynamic, Woody’s envy and admiration create a believable emotional tug-of-war. The scene at the school dance, where Woody’s heart sinks watching Suzanne and Chase together, felt painfully real. Mattessich captures the bittersweet nature of unspoken feelings and the resilience it takes to move forward.

Point Guard is a contemplative, atmospheric new adult novel that will resonate with anyone who has felt the weight of growing up, the sting of unrequited love, or the push-and-pull of community. It’s an excellent read for those who appreciate coming-of-age stories laced with a strong sense of place and poetic introspection.

Pages: 204 | ASIN : B072WM1KNX