The Recruit by K.R. Coleman - OPTIONAL

The Recruit by K.R. Coleman, 97 pages. Darbycreek, 2018. $8.  

Language: G (0 swears, 0 "f"); Mature Content: G; Violence:G.

MS, HS-OPTIONAL 

Tessa Hobbs loves playing soccer and is wondering what the future might hold as her parents’ farm is struggling and college may be out of the question. When Tessa’s friend, Ellen’s older sister, Sadie brings her college coach to watch Tessa play, she thinks things might turn around for her. As she learns more about Sadie’s need to control everyone and everything around her, she questions if that is the future she wants. The worst part is that Sadie wants Tessa to ditch her farm boy boyfriend, Ben, so she can fit better into sorority life at college. Tessa has to decide what she wants for the future on her own terms.

This book was easy to read and kept me interested enough to finish in one sitting. The soccer action was fast-paced and would interest many young athletes. Though the characters were in high school, it read more like a middle grade novel with its simple story line and lack of mature content. It would be a nice fit for reluctant teen readers. Tessa’s willingness to not let others dictate her decision making is admirable and realistic.

Reviewer: Stacee S., Reading Teacher