Soccer Dreamin': The Golden Goal

ANNOTATION

Tommy is disappointed when his dream of scoring a goal for his soccer team does not happen in the way he had hoped, but his sister helps him see that there is more than one way to be a hero.

FROM THE CRITICS

School Library Journal

K-Gr 2-This picture book that addresses the concept of teamwork is heavy on lesson and slight on story. Tommy's dream of scoring is dashed when a goalie dressed in black, who "looked like Darth Vader," deflects the ball from the target. The child becomes discouraged and worries that everyone will laugh at him. Advice from his older sister reminds him that focusing on teamwork, not concentrating on being a star, is what is important. In his next game, Tommy provides an assist to his teammate that results in a goal. While the theme is admirable, it's forced. The colored pencil-and-watercolor illustrations feature players with awkward body movements and facial expressions.-Blair Christolon, Prince William Public Library System, Manassas, VA Copyright 2000 Cahners Business Information.|

ACCREDITATION

Mark Santel was born in St. Lewis, Missouri. He currently lives in Dallas, Texas, with his wife Lorie and their two children, Taylor and Brandon. Mark began playing soccer at the age of five. He was a highschool All-American at Christian Brothers College High School and a three time All-American at Saint Lewis University. Before turning professional in 1992, Mark played three years with the United States Youth National League where in 1987 he represented the United States in the Youth World Cup. Since that time Mark has had twelve appearances with the men's U.S. National Team. After being drafted number -one overall in 1992 Major Indoor Soccer League draft, Mark went on to play four years with the A-League Colorado Foxes. He helped to win back-to-back championships in 1992 and 1993, while achieving All-Star status each season. He has been a member of major league soccer's Dallas Burn since the team's inception in 1996 and played in the league's first two All-Star games. Mark has been recognized by Governor Bush for his continuous work with literacy and the children of Texas.