Benchwarmers (Benchwarmers #1)
by John Feinstein (Author)
The path to victory starts on the sidelines, in this fast-paced new middle grade series from #1 New York Times bestselling sportswriting powerhouse John Feinstein.
Twelve-year-old Jeff Michaels, son of a Philadelphia TV sports reporter, is just learning to play soccer on the new sixth-grade team at his middle school. Andrea Carillo has fought her way onto the squad, but the coach doesn't think girls should play with boys, so she's riding the bench with Jeff--even though she's one of the best players. With Jeff's help, the Philly media gets ahold of the story, and suddenly Andi is all over the news as she shows her worth on the soccer field. But amid bullies, threats, and a media firestorm, will Andi's skills and Jeff's perseverance be enough to save the season?
From sportswriter John Feinstein comes this action-packed novel about two kids who may be benchwarmers, but prove themselves naturals when it comes to teamwork, friendship, and finding a path to victory.
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School Library Journal
Gr 4&6-A soccer story that shoots toward female empowerment but misses the goal. Jeff knows that Andi Carillo, the only girl trying out for Merion's 6th-grade soccer team, is one of the best players he's ever seen. So, when the list goes up and Andi is cut, Jeff brings in his TV sports reporter Dad to cover the story. All the attention gets Andi on the team, but their coach's resentment puts both of them on the bench. The question is how to get off of it. Jeff and Andi are poorly developed characters who only show growth on the field. Although writing about strong female soccer players is important, Andi shows no depth beyond her ability to make great passes and score goals. The story is rooted in the male gaze; no one would know of her greatness if not for the help and acceptance of her male counterparts and coaches. VERDICT A mediocre sports book for avid soccer fans. Not recommended.-Rebecca Fitzgerald, Harrison Public Library, NY
Copyright 2019 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.Review quotes
JUV032150 - Juvenile Fiction | Sports & Recreation | Soccer
Middle schools
Sex role
Soccer
Sportsmanship
