SOL GOES FOR GOAL!

Sol has a goal, but will her crush get in the way?

In this second series entry, a supporting character from the first book takes center field. Twelve-year-old Sol is determined to make the soccer team. Her older sister labels her “Little Miss Perfect,” and a neighbor calls her “the most mature kid in the building.” Sol, who takes the expectation that she’ll always be perfect very seriously, even helps her teachers with organizing classroom supplies. But lately her normally tireless focus has been diverted by a “stupid crush,” and she’s even having trouble keeping up with her old friends. Will she be able to accomplish her goals by making some goals? This is a solid stand-alone sequel in a series that explores various early adolescent struggles. Anta skillfully depicts the pain of perfectionism when it comes up against that most human of distractions: a first crush. Sol is taken with Lily, the captain of Hillside Valley Middle’s girls’ soccer team, and the story frames her feelings in a natural, matter-of-fact way. The illustrations showcase dynamic soccer action, and the exploration of sporting bonds will appeal to middle-grade soccer fans. The clean artwork accentuates the facial expressions of the diverse cast surrounding Sol, who’s Nicaragüense, and the warm colors convey a cheerful tone and evoke the autumnal setting.

Sweet and well-rounded: reminds high achievers that it’s okay to shoot and miss.