Corner Kick. (Sports Stories; 66). Bill Swan. Toronto, ON: James Lorimer, 2004. 115 pp, pbk. & cl., $8.95 (pbk.), $16.95 (cl.). ISBN 1-55028-816-4 (pbk.), ISBN 1-55028-817-2 (cl.). Subject Headings: Soccer stories. Jealousy - Juvenile fiction. Teamwork (sports) - Juvenile fiction. Grades 4-8 / Ages 9-13. Review by Glenys Martin. ** /4

excerpt:

Michael didn't bother to look at her.

"So you can tell your friend that you can help all those orphans in Afghanistan," he said his voice dripping with contempt. "Buy them a bunch of brand new soccer balls and make them feel real rich."

"Michael, what is the matter with you? I don't understand."

"What's to understand? You don't want my help. You don't need my help. Want me to repeat it?" Michael knew he was being unreasonable but couldn't stop the words.

Corner Kick is an easy read story with a linear plot covering the course of a few months. The main character, a preteen boy named Michael, plays for an elite soccer team, but his classmates at his small school convince him to play for the school team. Michael likes to be recognized for his talents. Throughout the story, he behaves badly when challenged to look beyond himself and be concerned for others. Envy causes Michael to be unfriendly to a new student. This new student challenges Michael; he wants to know why Michael does not like him. This event becomes a turning point for Michael. He has to admit to his classmate and himself that he does not have a good reason. Through the story, he learns to recognize and celebrate the talents of others.

Recommended.

Glenys Martin is a teacher at W. P. Sandin Composite High School in Shellbrook, SK.

To comment on this title or this review, send mail to cm@umanitoba.ca.

Copyright © the Manitoba Library Association. Reproduction for personal use is permitted only if this copyright notice is maintained. Any other reproduction is prohibited without permission.

Published by The Manitoba Library Association ISSN 1201-9364

Hosted by the University of Manitoba.

NEXT REVIEW |TABLE OF CONTENTS FOR THIS ISSUE - April 15, 2005.

AUTHORS | TITLES | MEDIA REVIEWS | PROFILES | BACK ISSUES | SEARCH | CMARCHIVE | HOME