Soccer to the Max

Description

Soccer to the Max

By Bibi Belford

ABOUT THE BOOK

Summer is turning into a total washout.

Instead of going on vacation, I get dumped at soccer camp while my family takes my sister to her doctor. My friends are in a different age group, and worse, I’m assigned to room with Zander, the monster who beat us last year. Things start looking up when we get some pro soccer training, and Zander agrees to play with me in the 3v3 tournament to win the Golden Boot Trophy. Yes! But then? Mamma Mia! Everything starts glitching. I’m talking Disaster with a capital D.

What should I do? Got any advice?

Author Bibi Belford started writing because one of her students told her he couldn’t find enough books about boys who played soccer. That sparked her first novel, Canned and Crushed, a never-a-dull-moment debut according to Kirkus Reviews. Her stories do more than just entertain; they tackle big themes like social justice and empowerment, often challenging stereotypes about disease or disability. Her subsequent novels have also merited recognition. Crossing the Line won a Christopher Award, and Another D for DeeDee received a Kirkus Star.

With a master’s degree in bilingual literacy and a background as a reading teacher and literacy coach, Bibi knows firsthand how a book can change a kid’s life. She divides her week between Chicago and Michigan, honing her writing skills and spending time back in the classroom, volunteering, subbing, or visiting schools to talk with young readers. She also enjoys traveling, gardening, quilting, and hanging out with her four amazing grandkids.

Praise for Soccer to the Max

“Bibi Belford’s entertaining and heartfelt new novel isn’t just for soccer players, although it’s a must-read for anyone who loves the sport. Centered on the delightfully flawed but well-intentioned Sandburg Zaproski, Soccer to the Max is an ode to humor, friendship, and hard work, with some age-appropriate psychology and Zen sprinkled in. A decisive win!” …Laura Anne Bird, award-winning middle grade author of Crossing the Pressure Line and Marvelous Jackson

“Soccer to the Max scores with humor and heart. Sandburg’s journey through friendship, rivalry, family, and soccer delivers a terrific message about empathy, learning to see the best in others, and that sometimes, being part of a team means helping others shine. Young soccer fans, and anyone who’s ever wanted to be the hero, will find plenty to cheer for.”…Lisa Ann Scott, author of several picture books, middle-grade novels, and chapter books, including Mermaids to the Rescue

“What a terrific book for soccer enthusiasts! The exciting play-by-plays make readers feel like they’re part of the game. But the book is about so much more than just playing soccer. It addresses facing disappointments and challenges as well as learning what really makes a team great.” …Natalie Rompella, author of Cookie Cutters and Sled Runners.

“With heaps of heart and a relatable hero, this book perfectly captures the messy, rewarding journey of learning how to be a true teammate, both on and off the field.” …Brianna DuMont, bestselling author of the Changed History series.