www.commonsensemedia.org review given 4 stars out of 5 and an age 8+ "Fast-paced soccer series about grit, growth, and teamwork."
From the playground to the premier league, Leo K. Doyle brings his football 'A' game in this sensational sport series for middle grade readers.
Born and raised in a small town, 12-year-old Leo has never seen the ocean or stepped foot on a plane... but he knows his football dreams will take him far. Rock star, Olympic goal, dragon-slaying kind of far, with his pet lizard named Messi by his side. So when a professional scout extends an invitation to try out for the London Dragons youth squad, The Academy for training younger players, Leo is more than game. But the world-famous English Premier League team only has eleven slots open... And two hundred of the best and brightest youth players on the planet ready to compete. Whisked off to a new country, Leo struggles to dodge and dribble his way through the grueling training regime set by cranky camp director who doesn't want to hear about Leo's recluse roommate or relentless camp bully...but it's fine. Leo is here for football, the one thing he knows he is good at. But will he be good enough to make The Academy?
For premier fans and football enthusiasts, T.Z. Layton's inspiring first book in The Academy Series is perfect for middle grade readers and sports fans ages 7.
T.Z. LAYTON is the New York Times bestselling author of the award-winning Academy series, which has been optioned for film and sold translation rights around the world. The author writes adult fiction under Layton Green and is also a soccer dad, youth coach, former collegiate player, and lifelong fan of the beautiful game.
Age: From 7 years
Paperback, 352 pages
H: 197mm W: 130mm Spine: 22mm
Weight: 244 grams