Game Face

Basketball is elevated to a lofty status in this Sports Stories entry, written at a third-grade level. Jay Hirtle has returned to Richmond Academy after temporarily playing for a rival junior high when his family was displaced by a fire. By a narrow vote, he’s now captain of the team, putting him in position to assist the coach, run practice, encourage new players, and temper an angry, egotistical teammate. Unfortunately, the weight of Jay’s responsibilities and the coach’s earnest toughness feel overwrought. The drill-filled run-up to the first game and the jostling of player roles comprise most of the plot, which may leave fans of the sport wishing for a bit more game-day action. Simultaneously available: Double Play by Sara Cassidy. Ages 10–13. (Sept.)