Jake Maddox's 'Volleyball Victory' is a straightforward, engaging early chapter book that tackles common challenges faced by young athletes. The story centers on Andrea, a protagonist who loves volleyball but finds herself in a difficult spot when a new coach introduces a new strategy and a new position for her. This shift causes significant frustration for Andrea, making her question her role and the team's potential for success. The book handles these feelings of anger and frustration directly, showing Andrea's internal struggle and how she, along with her teammates, must learn to adapt and trust their coach's vision. The emotional arc moves from initial excitement to frustration, then to a period of perseverance and ultimately, hope and triumph as the team works together.
This book is specifically for children who are involved in team sports, or who are experiencing changes in their routines or roles, whether in sports, school, or other activities. A parent might reach for this when their child is struggling with a new coach, a new team, or a new position, or simply feeling frustrated with a challenge. It provides a relatable scenario where a child's initial negative feelings are acknowledged and then worked through. Parents should be prepared to discuss how Andrea's feelings are valid and how she learns to cope. Younger readers (4-6) might enjoy it as a read-aloud, focusing on the action and the idea of trying new things, while older readers (7-11) can independently read and connect more deeply with Andrea's emotional journey and the themes of teamwork and resilience. What sets this book apart is its direct focus on a specific sport and the common, yet often unaddressed, emotional hurdles young athletes face when changes occur within their team structure, offering a simple, positive resolution.
