The Field

Soccer fan or not, the call of The Field is irresistible.

"Vini! Come! The field calls!" cries a girl as she and her younger brother rouse their community--family, friends, and the local fruit vendor--for a pick-up soccer (futbol) game. Children-young and old-players and spectators come running--bringing balls, shoes, goals, and a love of the sport. "Friends versus friends" teams are formed, the field is cleared of cows, and the game begins! But will a tropical rainstorm threaten their plans? The world's most popular and inclusive sport has found its spirited and authentic voice in Baptiste Paul's debut picture book-- highlighting the joys of the game along with its universal themes: teamwork, leadership, diversity, and acceptance. Creole words spoke in Saint Lucia, the book's setting, create a bilingual text that reminds readers of the sport's world fame. Bright and brilliant debut illustrations by children's book illustrator Jacqueline Alcántara--winner of the We Need Diverse Books Illustration Mentorship award--capture the grit and glory of the game and the beauty of the island setting that inspired this field.