Tim Howard

Tim Howard is a former professional soccer goalkeeper who played for the United States men's national team and several club teams including Manchester United and Everton. He earned 121 caps for the US national team between 2002 and 2017, making him one of the most capped goalkeepers in American soccer history. Howard's career included notable performances in major tournaments, particularly the 2014 FIFA World Cup where he made 16 saves in a single match against Belgium. He spent a decade playing in the English Premier League, primarily with Everton from 2007 to 2016. After retiring from professional soccer, Howard transitioned to writing and published his memoir "The Keeper" in 2014. The book details his soccer career and his experience living with Tourette syndrome, a neurological condition he was diagnosed with as a child. Howard has also worked as a soccer analyst and commentator for various media outlets. His post-playing career has focused on sharing his experiences both as a professional athlete and as someone who overcame personal challenges to reach the highest levels of international sport.

Readers of "The Keeper" respond positively to Howard's honest account of living with Tourette syndrome while pursuing professional soccer. Many appreciate his straightforward description of how the condition affected his childhood and early career development. Readers find his explanation of coping mechanisms and treatment approaches informative and relatable. Soccer fans praise Howard's detailed accounts of major matches and tournaments, particularly his descriptions of playing in the Premier League and representing the United States in World Cups. Readers note his ability to convey the pressure and intensity of high-level competition without overselling dramatic moments. Some readers criticize the book's pacing, finding certain sections about his early life less engaging than the professional soccer content. A few mention that the writing style feels repetitive in places. Others note that the book focuses heavily on his American soccer experience while providing less detail about his time at Manchester United, which disappointed some readers interested in that period of his career. Parents of children with Tourette syndrome frequently mention the book's value as an inspirational resource, though some wish for more practical advice about managing the condition.