Hunter & Stripe and the Soccer Showdown

"This second book about the two friends once again puts an expressive raccoon cast into activities and situations kids will easily recognize. The descriptive prose and colorful, detailed art are lively and appealing and together convey the joy and challenges for friendships and good sportsmanship.

A story touched with humor and sympathy about what matter most, on and off the field."

"Beginning soccer fans will ask for repeat readings."

"'Winning isn't everything,' coach Vince Lombardi famously said, 'it's the only thing.' Or is it? Elliott's story appreciates that 'how you play the game' provides the crucial balance, not to mention the art and sustenance of the athlete, when one team necessarily has to lose. Raccoon mates Hunter and Stripe are back, and this time they find themselves on opposing sides in a game between their unbeaten teams. The competitive drive rears its head and they have a minor falling out. Hunter's sister provides some insight: 'Sports should celebrate the amazing things we can do—no matter who wins.' Hunter is mystified—it's a big step to take—but he takes it, along with Stripe, when they witness their fathers, as coaches of their respective teams, being over-competitive goofballs. Munsinger's stumpy, zealous characters add the right degree of empathy and laughs."

“The story really portrays what sportsmanship could be like and hopefully is for many kids and their friends. Maybe some of the professionals out there can take a tip from this book. I would recommend this to all kids age 4 and up."