Soccerland

One day Im going to play for the U.S. Womens National Team.Thats what Flora Dupre promised her mom before she died of cancer. Flora and her mom had created a place called Soccerland, an escape world in which theyd ignore the beeping cancer machines and just talk soccer. And now Floras dream of playing for the U.S.A. just might be coming true. Floras received the invitation of a lifetime: the chance to try out for the Under-15 U.S. Girls Soccer Team at the International Sports Academy.But at the academy, the level of talent is like nothing Floras ever seen before. She struggles to hold her own as she grapples with new positions, injuries, the worlds most frustrating coach, and contempt from other players who would love to see her fail. But Flora is a big, strong Dupre girland shes not going to go down easy.Superbly written. Doug McIntyre, ESPN The MagazineChoats examination of the dedication, effort, and sacrifice needed to become a national-level player is riveting and inspiring. Readers will be rooting for Flora as she struggles to achieve her goals. Kirkus ReviewsA dazzling and expert portrait of the life of the young elite athlete. S. L. Price, Sports Illustrated