Select by Christie Matheson
Published by Random House Books for Young Readers on May 9, 2023
ISBN: 0593567234
Pages: 224
Genres: Sports
Format: Chapter Book Fiction
Goodreads

Alex has loved playing soccer since she was five years old. Now 12, she has been chosen to play for an elite team called Select. Playing for Select gives Alex a great opportunity to play at Nationals and earn a scholarship for college, which would be the only way she could afford to go. Playing for Select also means leaving the Rec team she loves, playing for a domineering coach who disrespects his players, and requires more logistical planning to get to practices and games, as Alex relies on public transportation. Alex is also frustrated by watching her mother not stand up for herself when her boyfriend mistreats her. Seeing this helps Alex confront her coach despite the risk of potentially losing her soccer career. This middle grade book would be great for readers who love soccer but also for those who enjoy strong female characters. This book confronts the issue of emotional abuse in an age-appropriate way both in the plot and in the author’s note. This book is more than just another sports book and would be a great addition to any middle school library collection.

Reviewed by Lindsay Varnum, Orono Public Library