Maxx Rumble Soccer Book 1: Knockout

Maxx Rumble Soccer Book 1: Knockout by Michael Wagner, drawn by Terry Denton (black dog books)

PB RRP $9.95

ISBN 9781922244802

Reviewed by Anastasia Gonis

Round one of the Soccer Knockout Competition is at hand. It’s Maxx Rumble’s team, the Stone Valley Saints against the Kreepy Crawlies - said by coach Beckham to be geniuses. But these geniuses use crafty ideas and secret weapons like Peli the pelican. He seems to be classed as a part of nature and there’s nothing the Stone Valley Saints can do about it.

Rexx gets the ball in the face right at the start and needs his good luck charm, teddy, which he stuffs up his jumper. Peli scores and the Crawlies are ahead. Can Rexx’s brilliant idea be the game-saver they need? Will teddy be the secret weapon Maxx’s team needs to get into the next round?  

Terry Denton’s drawings are priceless! The language is spot on, and the laughs are endless.

This is a no-holds-barred soccer game full of excitement, devious shots, brilliant brain work and lots of fun. Aimed at boys of the 8+ age group who are interested in physical activity, this chapter book series will crack them up and draw in reluctant readers easily. The first of three books, I advise parents to buy all three together  as they will be digested quickly.