INDOOR KID

An unathletic kid gets an unexpected taste of victory.

Arnie loves sports and games, and he’s always eager to play, though he virtually always loses (unless he’s playing video or board games). Unfortunately, he lives in a community dominated by sporty youngsters; the most successful crew is known as the Brohemians. A group of all-sport athletes who run the best park in town, they challenge anyone who steps out of line to a Muscle Match. The vanquished kid is banned from the park and must wear a “loser hat” to school—Arnie knows the drill. His salvation appears when, through fantastically silly circumstances, he comes into possession of a magical medal that grants its wearer athletic prowess. Attracting admiration for his newfound talents, he drifts toward becoming a competitive bully himself until his real friends redirect his energies to building a more egalitarian competitive atmosphere. DuBois-Thompson’s energetic and colorful illustrations show the kinetic fun of sports and games—basketball, baseball, football, and field hockey among them. Heagerty captures the infectious power of competition, with Arnie’s parents showing him more interest as he starts to succeed. Arnie is pale-skinned with red hair and glasses; the supporting cast, including the Brohemians, is diverse.

Energetic entertainment that promotes healthy sportsmanship.