The Walk On

Gr 5–8—Feinstein's first book in the series introduces Alex Myers to listeners and to Chester Heights football. Though he has what is obviously the strongest arm on the team, Alex must fight for recognition, respect, and playing time. The head coach's son, fairly or not, is firmly in place as the starting quarterback. The shocking results of mandatory drug testing before the playoffs and a go-get-'em school newspaper staff throw the team off balance with questions, accusations, and intrigue. Though read with feeling and appropriate enthusiasm by the author, his modulation is a bit strong and his voice somewhat harsh, considering the age of most of the characters. A younger voice may have been more relatable. Feinstein varies his voice for different characters, which will help listeners keep the generic names straight. Full of refreshingly decent high school students, first crushes, a dose of dating drama, and a cliff-hanger ending, The Walk On will interest even non-football fans, as long as they can hang on through all the play-by-play action.—Jane Newschwander, Fluvanna County Public Schools, VA