Review Detail

SOCCER SPACETASTROPHE is a humorous and engaging middle grade novel. Twelve-year-old Wyatt and friends have been brought back to play another intergalactic sports game against aliens for the fate of the world - but this time for soccer. As the game goes on, friendships and loyalty will be tested.

What I loved: This was a really fun mix of chapter book and almost graphic novel. There were some heavily illustrated scenes mixed into the story that helped to keep readers hooked and help them imagine the action. This works particularly well for the game scenes and engages readers who are shifting into larger middle grade text-only books. The illustrations are black-and-white but full of detail and enjoyable to look at. The aliens are imaginative, and the scenes are cleverly depicted.

The story moves fast with plenty of action for readers who enjoy athletics and a touch of mystery. The pace was quite quick and kept readers on their toes throughout. Solid themes of friendship, loyalty/betrayal, trying your best, and good sportsmanship were thoughtfully done throughout the story. The book also weaves in quite a bit of humor that children who love to laugh will enjoy!

While this is the second in a series, the book summarizes the first enough that readers could easily pick this one up and follow it without having read the first.

Final verdict: SOCCER SPACETASTROPHE is a delightful and engaging middle grade story with lots of imagination, humor, and heart. Recommend for readers who will appreciate the blend of art and story that makes this particularly unique!