Synopses & Reviews
Amanda and Lena have been soccer stars and best friends for years, but now, when Amanda makes the junior varsity team and Lena makes the varsity, Amanda finds herself increasingly shut out of her friends life. Suddenly, everything Amanda took for granted is changing--but she's about to discover that might not be bad. Brendan Halpins new novel is about friendship, family, soccer, and the confusing time when everything that used to feel simple suddenly feels complicated.
Review
“A quick, good-natured, and perceptive read about best friends growing apart, no doubt one of the hardest parts of growing up.” -Starred, Booklist
“The dialogue is spot-on, and the characters are fully fleshed out . . . . While there is plenty of soccer action for fans of the sport, the book will also appeal to teens looking for a solid friendship story. Halpin manages to convey the benefits of doing the right thing, but without preachiness.” -School Library Journal
“Halpins narrative adeptly segues between adrenaline-filled soccer matches to more reflective, contemplative passages. Amandas quandary will resonate with readers as she tackles timely topics such as friendship woes, teen drinking and family life with admirable aplomb.” -Kirkus Reviews
About the Author
BRENDAN HALPIN is the author of How Ya Like Me Now and Forever Changes, as well as a number of books for adults. He was a high school English teacher for ten years and presently teaches for Year Up in Boston.