About This Book
Reach for this book when your child starts relying on lucky socks, ritualized routines, or external charms to feel capable of success. Ari Fish is a twelve-year-old soccer goalie who believes a rare trading card of his hero is the only reason he is playing well. When the card goes missing, Ari must confront his own anxiety and the realization that his talent comes from his own hard work, not a piece of cardboard. It is a grounded, relatable story for ages 8 to 12 about moving from superstition to self-confidence. Parents will appreciate how it explores the nuance of hero worship, showing that even our idols are human and flawed. It is an excellent choice for navigating the transition into middle school where peer pressure and the desire for control often collide.
