The Captain Contest

March 29, 1999
Kicking off the Soccer 'Cats series, credited to the late Christopher, this early chapter book introduces 10-year-old Dewey and his best friend, Bundy. When the two spot a poster announcing a contest to come up with a team name and T-shirt logo for the summer soccer league, they have very different reactions. Bundy thinks it would be "awesome" to head up the team, but "just barely passed art last year." A talented artist, Dewey is psyched about designing a team logo, but the thought of being team captain makes him a "little queasy." Undecided about entering the competition, Dewey doesn't speak up when Bundy asks his teammates if they plan to enter the contest. They all agree that Bundy would make the ideal captain, and he assumes the captain's position is in the bag. As Dewey mulls over whether or not to enter the contest, the narrative convincingly presents his anguish over the possibility of jeopardizing his friendship with Bundy as well as his trepidation about becoming captain. Despite its single-issue focus, the plot moves along at a sprightly pace, though young soccer buffs (especially those familiar with Christopher's oeuvre) may be disappointed at the minimal action on the playing field. The series' second installment, Operation Baby-Sitter, is being published simultaneously. Ages 7-9.

August 1, 1999
Gr 2-3-When two 10-year-old friends sign up for a summer soccer league, they discover there is a contest to name and design logos for the teams. The winners will become captains and their designs, part of the uniforms. Bundy is a natural leader but not a good artist. Dewey can draw well but wants nothing to do with being in charge, yet plans to enter anyway. When he finally lets his friend know, Bundy is upset. Nothing too suspenseful takes place in this beginning chapter book. In fact, the outcome is evident immediately-Dewey arranges for Bundy to be captain of the Soccer 'Cats even though it's his logo that wins. The plot is neither interesting nor realistic. The book is illustrated with a few black line drawings. All in all, this posthumous publication is not up to Christopher's previous standards.-Kate Kohlbeck, Randall School, Waukesha, WI

Copyright 1999 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.