Happy Like Soccer by Maribeth Boelts- ADVISABLE

Boelts, Maribeth.  Happy Like Soccer.  Illustrated by Lauren Castillo. 32 pgs.  Candlewick, 2012. $15.99. PICTURE BOOK Content: G.  Sierra loves soccer.  Everything about the game makes her happy.  But one thing really makes her sad: her Aunt is unable to get work off each Saturday to see her play.  Sierra watches all her teammate’s family members sitting on blankets and chairs on the sidelines.  They don’t even know her name; they just call to her by the number on the back of her jersey. More than anything, Sierra would like to have a loved one cheering her on at her games.  This is an unexpected emotionally packed book.  I really wasn’t excited to read it, maybe the title threw me off.  But both my son and I were quiet and reflective when the story was over. This is a tender story and one that would spark many discussions about families, social differences, and dealing with the sadness that sometimes occurs in life.   EL (K-3).  ADVISABLE.  Reviewer: SL.