About This Book
This engaging and humorous chapter book, the first in the Good Sports League series, introduces Ben Cutler, a talented young soccer player. Ben loves the camaraderie and fun of his casual rec team, but his skill earns him a spot on a highly competitive travel team. Here, the focus is solely on winning, with no room for the playful chants or goal dances Ben enjoys. The story thoughtfully explores the tension between competitive success and the joy of playing, prompting readers to consider what truly matters in sports and in life. It's perfect for children aged 4-11 who enjoy sports stories and themes of friendship and values.
A funny, heavily illustrated new chapter book series about sports and sportsmanship by the acclaimed author of Game Changer Ben Cutler loves everything about soccer! He's got a great team, and they have the best pre-game chants and half-time jokes. He and his best friend, Jay-Jay, even invent dances for when they score a goal! And Ben is good at soccer. Like REALLY good. Too good for a casual rec team. Soon, he's recruited for a travel team. His new team plays amazingly well, but they take soccer super seriously. No pre-game chants, no juice-box breaks, and the most important rule of all: NO DANCING. Even though his new team is winning all the time, Ben is left to wonder: Is winning all that matters in the end?
Discussion Prompts
1
What do you think is more important in sports: winning or having fun? Why?
2
How did Ben's two teams treat winning differently?
3
Have you ever been in a situation where you had to choose between something fun and something more serious? What did you do?
4
What does 'good sportsmanship' mean to you?
5
How did Ben's feelings change when he joined the new team?
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