This rhyming picture book for ages three and up captures the energy and fun of young children playing on the soccer field. Over the course of their first season, the players progress from unsure newcomers to spirited good sports who love the game (and even manage to score).

Author Linda Ashman, who lives in Chapel Hill, tells the story through the kids’ own voices, using speech bubbles instead of narration. Her appreciation for the patient work that volunteer coaches do comes through, along with her sense of humor about early athletic pursuits.