Last Chance for First by Tom Hazuka Grades 8+ 289 pages Brown Barn Books May 2008 Paperback     Robbie is a teenager every parent would love. He is the high-scorer and captain of his high school soccer team, and his best friend since kindergarten is the co-captain. Robbie listens to and respects his coaches and his teachers. Robbie’s brother, Paul, was the football star in the family. Even though Robbie feels that his parents would rather he had played football and be just like Paul, he still knows that they are proud of him, too. Robbie’s greatest fault is his occasional Friday night beer with Jim. One more thing: Robbie has a heart of gold and is trustworthy to the end. Does he sound too good to be true? Normally, this reviewer would agree and steer you away from the syrupy character just described - but this one works. The reader will want to get to know Robbie and cheer for his newfound relationship with Pet. You will be outraged with Robbie when he has to stand up for his teammates who are being harassed. The author delivers a believable and endearing view of high school athletes and what the good kids are doing. Make sure that your teenager reads this cross-over novel by Tom Hazuka - they will be looking for more. Yes, it is that good.     web reviews   Joyce Rice/2011 for curled up with a good kid's book   For grown-up fiction, nonfiction and speculative fiction book reviews, visit our sister site Curled Up With a Good Book (www.curledup.com)