Soccer Sami and the Big Meanie Coach by Stooart (www.stooart.com), 2015
North Shore author Stewart McKenzie has selfpublished a small picture book about the importance of teamwork. Cartoon-like illustrations accompany the text which describes in Seuss-like verse how soccer-loving hippo Sami finally gets to play after sitting out many soccer games. The walrus coach, who in real life would have been drummed out of North Shore Soccer for bad coaching, can't stand inept playing or fooling around. At one point he roars, "This is little league soccer! This is no place for fun!!" It is a wonder Sami perseveres but she does and gets her chance to save the day during a championship game. The Grinch-like coach has a personality transformation due to a kind gesture on the part of the team and the story ends on an upbeat note. A snappy little tribute to all those players who just want to get out there and enjoy the game.
Fran Ashdown was the children's librarian at the Capilano branch of the North Vancouver District Public Library. She stood on the sidelines for many a soccer game when her kids were younger. For more information check your local libraries.
