Friday, October 22, 2010

Kevin the Star Striker by Joachim Massanek

The Wild Soccer Bunch, Book 1, Kevin the Star Striker
Massanek, Joachim, Kevin the Star Striker. Sole Books, 2010. Pgs. 147. Language: G, Violence: G, Sexual Content: G.

Meet the Wild Soccer Bunch. They live in Chicago. United by their love of soccer, 11 boys and 1 girl play by 5 unbreakable rules: 1) Be Wild, 2) Everything’s cool, as long as you’re wild, 3) Never, ever give up, 4) All for one and one for all, 5) Once wild, always wild. When the last of the snow melts, the gang rushes to their beloved soccer field only to find that Mickey and his gang known as the Unbeatables have taken over. Kevin, determined to have their playing field back, challenges the Unbeatables to a soccer game in 2 weeks time. Whoever wins gets to keep the soccer field as their playing field. When problems arise with teamwork, their home situations, and their friendship, however, their goal of getting their field back seems to get farther and farther away. Can Kevin lead his friends to victory or will they have to give up their soccer field of dreams for ever?

A fun, quick read for soccer fans everywhere. The characters are likable and easy to relate to. The plot is well-developed and has some serious themes in it, but the story is still funny and enjoyable. Readers who like realistic fiction, friendship books, and sports stories will enjoy reading this book. EL (4-6) ADVISABLE. Reviewer: Kira M, Youth Services Librarian, WHI Public Library

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