This book was about a young underprivileged boy in south africa that receives a soccer ball for good grades in school. While he is ecstatic about his reward, he must be wary of the neighborhood bullies looking to ruin his reward. This story has a great amount of adversity present, but i feel that it is suitable for children to read. It would be another great book to involve in a lesson on morals. ( )

This book is about children that work together to reach a common goal. ( )

What a beautiful story of hope, children, and the beauty of playing! I was amazed at how life like the art was. I liked reading a story from the setting of South Africa.

Set in a poor and dusty part of South Africa, this book tells the story of a young boy who had just received a new soccerball for being an outstanding reader in his class. Although very eager to play with it and to share with his friends, they must all be wary of the bullies on the street who try to ruin their plans. This is a great book that talks about how friendship can overcome bullies, and the people who stand in the way of your dreams.

This book revolves around friendship to overcome the bullies in a neighborhood. Friendship is a very vital part of being able to overcome others who bully. Also, it is good for students to be exposed to the culture in this book, and understand that bullying happens all over the world.

Realistic Fiction
Reading Level: 2.7

In a small town in South Africa, Ajani and his friends outwit the local bullies and play the game they love. Young children will appreciate the universality of the game of soccer. While the dangerous conditions are indirectly addressed, they are appropriately handled for young readers. ( )