Mix one part sports, one part conflict, and one part tween insecurity with solid writing, and the result is four stories that are perfect for middle school reluctant readers. In Motocross Double-Cross, best friends Carlos and Ricky must put friendship aside for the chance to compete in the United States Motocross Association Nationals. When each boy suspects the other of sabotaging his bike during their race, the question becomes whether Carlos and Ricky will be able to put heir differences aside and find the real saboteur. Jamal, the main character in Slam Dunk Shoes, is a street-ball legend in his hand-me-down basketball sneakers, but after getting a pair of top-of-the-line shoes for earning a spot on the Cyclones, the best youth team in the city, Jamal cannot seem to find his game. Is it really the shoes, or is Jamal trying too hard to impress his new teammates, who would rather ignore him than play with him? Snowboard Duel introduces readers to Brian and Hanna, best friends and the best snowboarders at Blair Mountain Resort. When Zach, the new resort manager's son, convinces his mother that Blair Mountain needs a boys-only snowboard cross team, Brian is faces with a choice: join the guys and board, or walk away and keep his friendship with Hannah. Berk, the Titans' goalie in Soccer Shootout, helped his team win their first state championship last year. A new season brings a new player - also a goalkeeper - and an opportunity for a place in a nationwide tournament. Berk must decide whether to accept another position and work with the new goalie or turn his back on his team.-- "VOYA"

Publisher: Stone Arch Books

Pub date: 2007-09-01

Length: 72 pages