Aiden the Soccer Star: FIVE GOLDEN SOCCER BALLS

Aiden the Soccer Star! Author: Suzan Johnson

Illustrated by Sana Freeman

Aiden’s goal was to become part of a soccer team and was hoping that after tryouts he found out he had a spot on the team. Imagine the excitement to be included to play and use the skills you’ve practiced such a dribbling, juggling and kicks in order to become part of a team. But, not everything goes according to plan as Aiden learns when he’s left on the sidelines the first game of the season. Disappointed even though his team did win, Aiden felt left out and would not tell anyone when asked what was bothering him. Even at dinner when everything was excited about the Sonics win, Aiden did not feel apart of it. It was almost like someone looking from the outside in. Like once sided window. Things did not change during the next matches and Aiden never got to compete.

Aiden is a real trooper and did not give up and practiced with determination to succeed and hopefully play and even attended every practice hoping to get some time on the field. Aiden was getting better during each practice but he never got to play the winger or midfield position.

Sometimes things change when you least expect them to as team member Nathaniel moved and would be playing for an opposing team. Nathaniel was the goalie and you won’t believe the surprised look on Aiden’s face when he was told he would be his replacement. Imagine watching your life in slow motion or hearing something and thinking maybe you misheard what was said. Aiden wanted to play but was he ready for this prime position?

Aiden tried his best at practice and was encouraged by his teammates and Coach Randy who said he was the new starting Goalkeeper but why was he worried?
Does practice make perfect? Does hard work and watching videos help Aiden to become a better goalie? What happens when someone has little faith in themselves and realizes that they can succeed and overcome their fears?
Aiden’s brother Bryce’s opinions are valuable to him and what he says and his words of encouragement will help others realize the importance of family support and understanding.

The excitement is palpable and Aiden is about to play his first game. He wanted to prove himself as a great goalie. Aiden was focused and played great the first part of the game and he blocked or caught every ball that came his way. But, would they win and would he prove that he was an A+ goalie? Sometimes you have a sixth sense and don’t even know it as he was able to predict what the Sharks game play was and with the help of his teammates you have to see the final outcome. Imagine playing against your ex-teammate and former goalie. Will he tense up or will Aiden get the ball in his hands and win the game?

Join the crowd. Listen to the roars and find out which team won the game and if Aiden proved to everyone including himself that he just might be Aiden: THE SOCCER STAR!

Great book for teaching sportsmanship, team spirit, allowing everyone a chance to play and encouraging someone who felt down to realize his potential. Coaches can learn and understand how a child fields when kept on the sidelines and not allowed to play for several games. Everyone wants to win but everyone is part of a team and needs a chance to shine and at least get into the game. Not everyone is sports oriented as author Suzan Johnson shares in her notes on the back cover how she loved participating in sports activities like cheerleading and softball. Personally I played basketball and punch ball and learned that even though I was not a great runner I could punch a home run almost every time.

Overcoming his fears, worries and proud that his brother Bryce rooted for him and praised him no matter the outcome, Aiden teaches other children to go with their dreams, never give up and take a chance on yourself. You never know you just might succeed. Learn what happens to Aiden and if he realizes his true potential as a Goalie and if the Sonics win when you join the team on the stands, watch the game from your seat in the stands and cheer the players on both teams and may the best team win! Great book for boys and girls that want to play the sport and Aiden is a great character that the author can bring back again. The colorful illustrations by Sana Freeman help bring to story and the games to life.

Fran Lewis: Just reviews/MJ magazine