Frank Carlson Library

Four sports. Four friends. In Game Face, each boy gets to narrate his own story, focusing on his sport of choice. Whether it's a basketball rematch against a rival school or an unexpected turn as the soccer team's replacement goalie, Torry, Javon, Marcus, and Griffin each face their weaknesses and find their strengths. They'll confront the overwhelming pressure of sports and the ups and downs of friendships. But with focus, perseverance, and support,...

Marcus Thorpe just had the first, and worst, 400-meter race of his seventh-grade life. He knows it was rough, but his friends' jokes are starting to sting. Luckily, redemption is in sight. If Marcus can just find the right pace, he can earn a spot in the 4x400 relay and prove his worth at the special meet at the high school. Will he pull his weight, or will the final stretch crush him again?

Javon Park loves baseball. This summer, his team is fighting for the championship! As relief pitcher, Javon knows the final moments of every game belong to him. And after drum lessons from his older brother, Ki, Javon feels like he might have found his rhythm. Strike one, strike two, strike three. Will it be enough to take down a worthy opponent?

Jared, a high-scoring member of the Hudson City Middle School basketball team, gets angry when the point guard accuses him of being responsible for their string of losses, but finally realizes they can win only if he becomes a team player.

Seventh-grader Donald, living with his parents in New Jersey, is determined to master wrestling but discovers that to win at the sport he must learn to control his temper.

Eleven-year-old Riley Liston tries to fit in at Camp Olympia, a summer sports camp where he is one of the youngest boys.

Eleven episodes in the life of a young man, from sneaking into his tenth football game in a row with his best friend in sixth grade to running his last high school race, the Pennsylvania state championships.

"After the starting point guard sprains his ankle during a game, Jamere steps in until his rival teammate returns for the championship. But with both boys expecting to start in the final game, their coach asks Jamere to decide who will play. The ending is Up2u!"--Page [4] of cover.