One Last Shot

De: John David Anderson

Narrado por: Josh Hurley

The beloved author of Ms. Bixby’s Last Day and Posted returns with a humorous and heartwarming story of family, friendship, and miniature golf.

For as long as he can remember, Malcolm has never felt like he was good enough. Not for his parents, who have always seemed at odds with each other, with Malcolm caught in between. And especially not for his dad, whose competitive drive and love for sports Malcolm has never shared. That is, until Malcolm discovers miniature golf, the one sport he actually enjoys.

Maybe it’s the way in which every hole is a puzzle to be solved. Or the whimsy of the windmills and waterfalls that decorate the course. Or maybe it’s the slushies at the snack bar. But whatever the reason, something about mini golf just clicks for Malcolm.

And best of all, it’s a sport his dad can’t possibly obsess over. Or so Malcolm thinks.

Soon, he is signed up for lessons and entered in tournaments. And yet, even as he becomes a better golfer and finds unexpected friends at the local course, be wonders if he might not always be a disappointment.

But as the final match of the year draws closer, the tension between Malcolm’s parents reaches a breaking point, and it’s up to him to put the puzzle of his family back together again.

©2020 John David Anderson (P)2020 HarperCollins Publishers

too long

great book cover. good writing. good performance. just too long for a young adult book. cut the story in half and it would be better.

Realistic boy characters

John David Anderson is terrific at realistically sharing feelings kids universally experience. In this story it is that feeling of unintentional parental pressure. It is a great story that strikes just the right notes in allowing kids to see themselves and still have a fun journey with the characters. Loved it! Highly recommend to anyone with a child and any middle grades children.