
Reach for this book when your child starts questioning the fairness of the world or shows a growing interest in the ethics behind their favorite professional sports. It is perfect for the middle schooler who is moving beyond simple play and into the complexities of professional integrity and the power of the press. The story follows teen reporters Stevie and Susan Carol as they uncover a high-stakes medical cover-up at the Super Bowl, forcing them to choose between their careers and the truth. This mystery is a fantastic tool for discussing honesty and the courage it takes to challenge powerful institutions. While it is set against the high-octane backdrop of the NFL, the heart of the book is about the weight of responsibility that comes with knowing a difficult secret. It provides a realistic look at journalism and sports culture, making it an excellent bridge for kids who love athletics but are ready for more mature, thought-provoking themes.
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Sign in to write a reviewTeens face intimidation and mild threats from powerful adults trying to silence them.
Central plot involves the use and cover-up of performance-enhancing drugs.
The book deals with the use of performance-enhancing drugs and medical ethics in sports. The approach is direct and secular, focusing on the legal and moral implications of cheating. The resolution is realistic: the truth comes out, but it carries heavy consequences for the adults involved.
A 12-year-old sports fan who is beginning to realize that their heroes aren't perfect and who enjoys 'insider' access. It’s also great for a student interested in school newspapers or broadcast journalism.
Read cold, but be prepared to discuss what performance-enhancing drugs are and why they are banned in sports, as the book assumes some basic knowledge of this controversy. A parent might see their child becoming cynical about sports news or asking why a certain athlete was suspended, signaling a readiness to discuss the 'business' side of games.
Younger readers (10-11) will focus on the 'kids vs. adults' mystery and the cool setting. Older readers (13-14) will better grasp the nuance of journalistic ethics and the pressure of corporate interests.
Unlike many sports books that focus on the winning touchdown, Feinstein uses his real-world expertise as a sportswriter to give an authentic, unvarnished look at the media circus and the moral gray areas of the NFL.
Stevie Thomas and Susan Carol Anderson, teen winners of a journalism contest, are covering the Super Bowl in Miami. While investigating the teams, they discover a conspiracy involving failed drug tests and a massive cover-up by team doctors and owners. They must navigate the high-pressure world of professional sports media to break the story without losing their credentials or their safety.
This overview was generated by AI based on the book's content and reviews, and may not capture every nuance.