My New Team

Reviewed by: Jill O'Connor - North Yarmouth Academy, Yarmouth, Southern Maine Library District

Review Date: January 13, 2016

Review

Good sports chapter books are in high demand for elementary-aged readers. This book, by Major League baseball player Ryan Howard and his wife Krystle, is a solid addition. There is not a lot of background provided about the home life of Little Rhino, as the main character Ryan is affectionately called. He appears to live with his Grandpa James and his brother CJ. Grandpa plays ball with Rhino every day and eventually encourages him to join a local league. Rhino is a strong athlete and ball player though he recognizes that he has a lot to learn and hone. At the same time that he is getting his first taste of organized ball, and the way that it can improve his playing, he is also dealing with a bully, Dylan, who also happens to be a teammate. The book is more of an "issues" book disguised as a story and it does it pretty well. The lessons of books/schoolwork before playing, keeping your head in the game even when negative words could distract you, and being a good teammate and trying to meet another kid where he may be are nice for young readers, especially those who crave a sports-themed story.

Overall Book Score: good