THE Soccer 'Cats: The Captain Contest

PUBLISHERS WEEKLY 29 MAR 1999

Kicking off the Soccer 'Cats series, credited to the late Christopher, this early chapter book introduces 10-year-old Dewey and his best friend, Bundy. When the two spot a poster announcing a contest to come up with a team name and T-shirt logo for the summer soccer league, they have very different reactions. Bundy thinks it would be "awesome" to head up the team, but "just barely passed art last year." A talented artist, Dewey is psyched about designing a team logo, but the thought of being team captain makes him a "little queasy." Undecided about entering the competition, Dewey doesn't speak up when Bundy asks his teammates if they plan to enter the contest. They all agree that Bundy would make the ideal captain, and he assumes the captain's position is in the bag. As Dewey mulls over whether or not to enter the contest, the narrative convincingly presents his anguish over the possibility of jeopardizing his friendship with Bundy as well as his trepidation about becoming captain. Despite its single-issue focus, the plot moves along at a sprightly pace, though young soccer buffs (especially those familiar with Christopher's oeuvre) may be disappointed at the minimal action on the playing field. The series' second installment, Operation Baby-Sitter, is being published simultaneously. Ages 7-9.