Frank and Bert: The One Where Bert Plays Soccer (Frank and Bert, #4)

FRANK AND BERT: THE ONE WHERE BERT PLAYS SOCCER is a sweet picture book about friendship and being there for each other. Frank and Bert are playing soccer, though Bert is having some trouble. When soccer superstar Barbara comes by, Frank leaves Bert to play with her. After the ball gets stuck in a tree, Frank finds himself in trouble and wishing Bert was there. Luckily, when he falls, Bert IS there and catches them. In the end, they play soccer with Barbara again - and it turns out that Bert makes a fantastic goalie.

What I loved: This is a cute picture book about friendship and being there for each other. While Bert is not great at playing soccer, Frank soon learns that including his friend is worth it - even when there might be somebody cooler. Friendship is always worth it. Bert is very sweet and his appreciation for Frank comes through the pages. The ending resolution of finding things that speak to Bert's skills and making sure he can participate was a good one.

The book is told by Frank to the reader, and this conversational style works well for young elementary school readers, who will also be able to appreciate the messages of the story. The illustrations are fantastic with expressive characters and the hot pink soccer ball that makes it easy to follow on every page. A QR code on the back links to an audiobook with sounds for page turns, so readers can also explore independently.

Final verdict: FRANK AND BERT: THE ONE WHERE BERT PLAYS SOCCER is a fun picture book about friendship and inclusion that will work well for young elementary school aged readers.