Doppol - Smart Book Recommendations

Book details

Toby Wheeler: Eighth Grade Benchwarmer

Toby Wheeler: Eighth Grade Benchwarmer

Thatcher Heldring
Published in
2007
3.90
on Goodreads (170)
Friendship
Critical Thinking
Volleyball Skills
Sportsmanship

Description

TOBY WHEELER LOVES basketball and playing pickup games at the local rec center. No coaches, no practices, just nonstop action with his best friend, JJ, at his side. But lately JJ's been acting like he's too busy for Toby, and Toby knows it will only get worse once basketball season begins at their junior high. That's because JJ is the star of their school team, while Toby is just an ordinary gym rat.When Coach Applewhite offers Toby a chance to join the team, Toby's eager to prove he can keep up with JJ. But then the coach announces the lineup, and Toby's hopes of playing ball with JJ are history: he's an eighthgrade benchwarmer! Befriending the coach's daughter only makes matters worse. Now the only way Toby will get in the game is if he starts thinking like a team player, on and off the court.From the Hardcover edition.
Age
8-12
Text complexity
intermediate
Length
224 pages

Why to read

  • Relatable Coming-of-Age Story: 'Toby Wheeler: Eighth Grade Benchwarmer' offers a genuine portrayal of the challenges and triumphs of middle school life, making it a relatable read for young readers who are navigating their own coming-of-age experiences.
  • Sports Theme with a Twist: The book provides a fresh perspective on sports-themed literature by focusing on a character who isn't a star athlete but still loves the game of basketball. This can be inspiring for readers who may not see themselves as the typical sports hero.
  • Lessons in Teamwork and Perseverance: Through Toby's journey, readers learn valuable lessons about the importance of teamwork, perseverance, and finding one's place in a group setting. These themes are important for personal development and can be applied to various aspects of life.
  • Engaging and Accessible Writing: Thatcher Heldring's writing style is engaging and accessible, making it easy for readers to get absorbed in Toby's story. The book's pacing and language are well-suited for middle-grade readers, encouraging a love for reading and storytelling.