Soccer Shots

Soccer Shots

From Booklist Gr. 6^-9. Set during the emotionally charged time of Germany's reunification, this novel follows the story of 16-year-old Karl Neumann, who leaves his East German home to pursue his dream of becoming a professional soccer player in the West. He carries with him a piece of the Berlin Wall, which he refers to as his "Martin Rock," in remembrance of his brother who was shot down as he tried to scale the wall and escape. Despite the lack of polish and the predictably happy ending, this compelling story has more to offer than the average sports novel. Intrigue, suspense, and light romance complement the action-packed soccer scenes, and the striking contrast between poor, hardworking Karl and his wealthy, lazy Western cousin illustrates the drastic difference between Eastern and Western lifestyles and values. The popularity of soccer should make the book attractive, especially to boys who are otherwise reluctant readers. Lauren Peterson Set during the German reunification, Karl Neumann, sixteen, leaves his home in former East Germany, and visits his cousin living in the West in hopes of becoming a professional soccer player