Jake loves playing on his championship soccer team but a family move results in him playing on the worst team in the league.  As in many of Mike Lupica’s books, the main character seems to have more maturity than most 11 or 12 year olds.  In Shoot-Out, Jake tests his sportsmanship and skills with helping his team grow as a unit.  Jake learns that Kevin is a superb kicker but is wallowing in grief for his mother who has recently died.  As captain, Jake feels he needs to assist his team both on and off the field.  Even though many of Lupica’s books share a common theme, the storylines are engaging.  The soccer commentary from the field is realistic, the action is lively, and the personal struggles and behaviors are believable.  Other Comeback Kids books include: Hot Hand and Long Shot, both about basketball, Two-Minute Drill, about football, and Safe at Home, about baseball.