Pop

Discussion page for //Pop//.

Synopsis: Marcus and his mother move to a new town – Marcus’ mom to start a new job and life after a divorce, and Marcus hoping to play football for the local high school undefeated football team. Marcus often goes to the local park to practice by himself until he meets an older man who really LOVES football, especially tackling and they practice together. When Marcus makes his way to the “try outs” for the football team, he finds himself unwelcome, but is allowed to join the team who doesn’t accept him. Over time Marcus learns that the man who is teaching him so much about football is not only the quarterback’s (Troy) father, but an ex-NFL player who now has Alzheimer’s disease. Over time Marcus learns a lot about football, but even more about life. Review: Although this story targets boys, it will also be enjoyable for girls to read especially due to the character Alyssa – a football-loving cheerleader who waffles between caring for Marcus and Troy. The story is much more than a football story, but never seems fake or didactic. The characters struggle with very human decisions and confusions and the story just flows. I highly recommend this book for the list. Sharon Flesher-Duffy, Nashua High South