Mackenzie Arnold: Caught in the middle by Mackenzie Arnold and Jess Black. Illus. by Hannah McCaffery
In the beginning chapter of the second book of the Mackenzie Arnold series, the group of friends are all playing soccer in the park. The temporary goal constructed in book one is standing up well to their game but does not quite trap Ryder’s runaway puppy Ronaldo. He is eventually picked up by a girl in a Messi jumper, whom Macca learns has newly arrived from Argentina and is called Sofia. Macca invites her to play soccer with her and her friends and they are all immediately impressed by Sofia’s skill. So much so that they ask her to join their team, the Seaport Strikers. Macca also tells Sofia about her new hearing devices and Sofia shares Spanish words with her new friends
When Sofia begins training with the Strikers, problems arise for Macca when Ryder becomes jealous of Sofia’s skill. Both Sofia and Ryder put Macca in a difficult position as she does not want to take sides. Macca decides to try to help them work it out but it ends in disappointment for all three children. Will they solve their issues so the team can become connected again?
In this story we are introduced to Macca’s older brother Sam, a rugby player, who helps to train Macca who now has the role of goalkeeper, in high-intensity exercises. We also hear from unfriendly Austin again. He is continually belittling Macca at school and this time has a bet she cannot restrict goals against the Seaport Strikers upcoming opponents.
Caught in the Middle, is another highly accessible and engrossing story in the Mackenzie Arnold series that gives the reader the opportunity to learn more about soccer, the skills needed, the different set up plays, and the soccer terminology used. It is also a story about family, friendship and learning to work through problems. The third book, The Big Leap, will be out in September 2024.
Teacher Notes are available.
Themes: Soccer, Friendship, Hearing loss, Spanish, Team Sport, Soccer Skills, Problem solving.
Kathryn Beilby