Soccer and the politics of Soviet Russia dominate in Arcady's Goal, the latest novel from Newbery Honor author Eugene Yelchin (Breaking Stalin's Nose). Narrator Arcady is 12 years old and, according to the government, a "socially dangerous element": a child of enemies of the people. Soccer keeps Arcady alive--the risk, the thrill and his natural skill. His life takes an abrupt turn when the oddly mysterious Ivan Ivanych sees him play and decides to adopt him. Could Ivan be the one to help Arcady find a way to become a real soccer player?
Yelchin's tale, inspired by his own father, is a fast-paced blend of sports and history. Arcady's emotions ring out on every page and bring the story to life, enhanced further by Yelchin's illustrations. Ivan's own past simmers on the horizon until Arcady and fate force it into the present. A perfect story for soccer fans, fathers and sons, and history lovers. --Kyla Paterno, reviewer