
Reach for this book when your child is grappling with performance anxiety or feels like they are letting their teammates down. Whether it is on the sports field or in the classroom, this story addresses the paralyzing fear of making a mistake in front of others. It follows Kevin, a young baseball player who is struggling with a weak throwing arm and a fear of being hit by the ball, which makes him the target of a teammate's teasing. Through Kevin's journey, the book explores themes of resilience, bravery, and self-confidence. It is highly appropriate for elementary and middle schoolers who are beginning to navigate peer pressure and the desire for social acceptance. Parents will appreciate how it models a realistic path toward improvement, showing that progress comes from practice and mental fortitude rather than overnight miracles. It provides comfort by normalizing the feeling of being the weakest link while offering a roadmap for personal growth.





















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Sign in to write a reviewProtagonist deals with significant feelings of inadequacy and social isolation.
The book deals with peer-to-peer bullying and self-doubt. The approach is direct and secular. The resolution is realistic: Kevin does not become the best player overnight, but he gains the respect of his peers and, more importantly, himself.
An 8 to 10 year old boy who loves sports but feels intimidated by more aggressive peers. It is perfect for the child who wants to quit a team because they are afraid of messing up during a crucial play.
The book can be read cold. It may be helpful to discuss the concept of sportsmanship vs. competitiveness after the chapters where Jeff is particularly mean to Kevin. A parent might choose this after hearing their child say, 'I'm the worst one on the team,' or 'I don't want to go to practice because everyone will laugh at me.'
Younger readers (ages 8 to 9) will focus on the excitement of the baseball games and the clear-cut 'meanness' of the bully. Older readers (10 to 12) will better appreciate the internal psychological struggle Kevin faces regarding his fear of physical pain and his desire for social belonging.
While many sports books focus on winning the big game, Matt Christopher focuses on the internal mechanics of fear. It is unique in its honest portrayal of a boy who is actually afraid of the ball, a common but rarely discussed reality in youth sports.
Kevin is a young baseball player who plays catcher, but he is struggling with two major hurdles: a weak throwing arm (a glass arm) and a genuine fear of being hit by the ball while at bat. His teammate, Jeff, is a talented but arrogant player who constantly belittles Kevin's performance. The story follows Kevin as he practices with his father, learns to manage his physical reactions to fear, and eventually finds the courage to stand his ground and contribute to his team's success.
This overview was generated by AI based on the book's content and reviews, and may not capture every nuance.