FICTION

Fantasy League

304p. Philomel. Sept. 2014. Tr $17.99. ISBN 9780399256073.
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Gr 5 Up—Charlie "The Brain" Gaines may be an average seventh grader in most respects, but he possesses an uncanny knowledge about football teams and a sixth sense about game strategy. A so-so linebacker for his own Pop Warner team, the Culver City Cardinals, Charlie would much rather be on the sidelines, calling plays along with the coach. Best friend Anna Bretton shares Charlie's passion for football, as it is in her blood—her grandfather and uncle own and manage the Los Angeles Bulldogs. She invites Charlie to meet Grandpa Joe and Uncle Matt at a game, and it isn't long before Gramps is captivated by Charlie's commentary. His advice to replace the quarterback with an older and relatively unknown player named Tom Pinkett helps to turn around their losing record. Signing Pinkett to the team turns out to be a winning idea, and when word gets out that the call was made by a 12-year-old, Charlie is hounded by the media and thrust into a spotlight he isn't sure how to handle. Nearly losing his friendship with Anna, Charlie learns a lesson about fame and valuing relationships. Tension soars when Joe Warren falls ill, and readers will be alternately cheering and reaching for a tissue during the final playoff-deciding game for the Bulldogs. This will be devoured by young football fans, who appreciate intricate game details and won't mind a touch of heartwarming sentiment.—Vicki Reutter, State University of New York at Cortland
Twelve-year-old footballer Charlie is a savant at analyzing game strategy and players--a talent he uses as his team's benchwarmer. When his best friend Anna introduces Charlie to her grandfather, owner of a new Los Angeles NFL team, Charlie's talent is tapped to help the struggling franchise. The concept is a football kid's fantasy, while the intergenerational relationship adds depth and heart.

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