Football mad boys, either beginning readers or those who are older but haven't quite got the knack yet, will love this. Short, with large clear print and lots of black and white illustrations, the story is full of soccer terms and exciting games. Alex is plump. Known as Jelly-Belly to those on the Athletic team who are regularly unkind, he is only ever a sub,and even when he gets a chance to play, disaster usually strikes. But when he discovers a talent for being in goal, everything changes, and soon he is accepted as a keen member of the team. His new-found self-esteem helps him decide to lose some weight, and he is a happier lad.