Twelve Yards

July 1, 2015

It only lasts a few seconds from start to finish, but the impact of the penalty kick in a soccer game can be huge, often overshadowing the remainder of the 90-minute game. Here, accomplished soccer journalist Lyttleton, examines the "art and psychology" of the kick, which results in a lucid, conversational study that provides fascinating context for what has become one of the most high-stakes moments in all of sports; the unsuccessful penalty attempt can easily become part of a national narrative. Lyttleton, who also runs a soccer consultancy, successfully discusses the kick from all angles, including several countries, leagues, and time periods. The author interviews famous penalty takers, attempting to understand why his home country of England so often stumbles when it comes to performing on the international stage. VERDICT A great work of nonfiction that will have appeal to soccer enthusiasts and casual sports fans alike. For broad audiences.--John Helling, Bloomfield-Eastern Greene Cty. P.L., IN

Copyright 2015 Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.

July 1, 2015
Soccer's penalty kick, an unchallenged shot on goal with only the goalkeeper to beat, can win championshipsor lose them, should the striker's nerve fail to hold. Readers wondering whether a whole book can be written about something that lasts only seconds needn't worry. While journalist, TV analyst, and sports consultant Lyttleton is definitely writing for the fan who already has a mental catalog of penalty decisions that went for and against his or her team, that fan will find this fascinating. He probes the psychology of kick takers and stoppers, examines strategies for success, profiles players who notably triumphed or blundered (including goalkeepers who also take penalties), and, best of all for diehards, crunches the numbers. One statistical gem reveals that players already recognized for their greatness perform more poorly than those who are not. Add in some historical notes (such as the origin of the legendary Panenka, an audacious chip shot at the space the goalkeeper will presumably vacate), and you have a book that will keep fans reading until the final whistle.(Reprinted with permission of Booklist, copyright 2015, American Library Association.)