(3) 4-6 Kickers series. Illustrated by Jimmy Holder. It's playoff time for the Bobcats, and Loop, Ben's nemesis from the Falcons, has predicted Ben's team will lose 0–6. Already nervous about game day, Ben must keep his cool and not let Loop get inside his head. On-the-field action along with detailed playing tips (appended) provide readers with solid advice about not only soccer but also about comportment and teamwork.

Reviewer: Nancy Hull

(3) 4-6 Kickers series. Illustrated by Jimmy Holder. In Fake Out, Ben, stymied by a sneaky move from an opposing player, resolves to practice hard and perfect the play. Benched finds the young soccer star frustrated by his team's lack of skill. Chatty banter and soccer fundamentals, along with "Ben's Top Tips for Soccer Players," make these easy-to-read sports series entries believable and instructive. Lively gray-scale pictures illustrate events. Review covers these Kickers titles: Benched and Fake Out.

Reviewer: Elissa Gershowitz

(3) 4-6 Kickers series. Illustrated by Jimmy Holder. Ben is bummed when cocky Mark joins his soccer team. Though Ben criticizes Mark for hogging the ball, Ben himself has much to learn about teamwork. Lively banter among nine-year-olds and soccer fundamentals from Coach Patty, along with “Ben’s Top Tips for Soccer Players,” make this easy-to-read sports novel both believable and instructive. Lively gray-scale pictures illustrate events.

Reviewer: Nancy Hull

(3) 4-6 Kickers series. Illustrated by Jimmy Holder. In Fake Out, Ben, stymied by a sneaky move from an opposing player, resolves to practice hard and perfect the play. Benched finds the young soccer star frustrated by his team's lack of skill. Chatty banter and soccer fundamentals, along with "Ben's Top Tips for Soccer Players," make these easy-to-read sports series entries believable and instructive. Lively gray-scale pictures illustrate events. Review covers these Kickers titles: Benched and Fake Out.

Reviewer: Elissa Gershowitz