Reviews for Tiny T. Rex tries soccer
School Library Journal
(c) Copyright Library Journals LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.
Toddler-K—Tiny T. Rex is introduced to the wonderful world of soccer in this newest addition to the series. Tiny T. Rex is excited to play soccer, and they have everything they need, such as cleats, a jersey, and the modest assumption that they will be great at it because their older siblings are. What follows is an amusing tale that shows soccer is not as easy as they thought it would be. Of course, the book has a happy ending with Tiny T. Rex scoring a winning goal. Lively writing and a crisp unfolding of events will keep children engaged. The dinosaurs are in muted primary colors, stiffly smiling no matter the action on the page. Tiny T. Rex gives some handy pointers for young children who are trying soccer for the first time at the end of the book. VERDICT With an emphasis on play and the joys of the game, this book is another sweet addition to the series.—Maria Graybosch
Kirkus
Copyright © Kirkus Reviews, used with permission.
The latest book in this character-building series finds Tiny T. Rex determined to become a better soccer player. If there was ever a sport for which having short arms is no disadvantage, it’s soccer. Even so, stubby-armed, pint-size cutie-pie narrator Tiny T. Rex, who is finally old enough to play on a soccer team, just doesn’t seem to have the chops. At practice, “when I try to dribble…the ball dribbles me instead.” Tiny’s cousin and older siblings have what it takes on the pitch, which demoralizes Tiny. But after plenty of practice, Tiny finds a way to shine: “I am ready to use MY special skill…being TINY!”—meaning small enough to zip between a hulking dino opponent’s legs and bash the ball into the net. This sturdy tale of perseverance will work for a general audience of littles, but the book’s specificity—there’s stuff on passing, shooting, juggling, and soccer gear and a concluding spread titled “Tiny’s Tips for Soccer Success!”—suggests that the target readership’s interest in the sport is presumed. The entire story is set on or beside a soccer field, but Fleck’s chunky, digitally colored pencil art skirts the problem of monotonous visuals by alternating among close-ups, wide shots, and views from on high and by rendering the dino cast in the bold colors of sports mascots. Good for kids who need a nudge about perseverance. Extra good for budding soccer players. (tips for drawing Tiny)(Picture book. 3-6) Copyright © Kirkus Reviews, used with permission.
