In the Soviet Union, 12-year-old Arcady has spent his life in orphanages where children of "Enemies of the People" are sent. The only thing Arcady has going for him is his skill at soccer -- in a one-on-one match, he can beat any other boy at the orphanage, even the oldest ones. When the director has him play for the inspectors on their routine visit, he catches the eye of one man, who adopts him and takes him home. Arcady is deeply suspicious of this development. Is this man a soccer coach who has scouted him out? Or does he have some other motive?

This is a quick read, with lots of illustrations by the author. Despite that, I think its best audience might be adults who enjoy reading books for children, who might have a greater understanding of the context and the complicated emotions Arcady is going through as he struggles to comprehend kindness and empathy. Not to say that kids can't or won't enjoy this, and Yelchin includes a very helpful author's note for those wishing to learn more. ( )

Arcady is an orphan in Soviet Russia. One thing makes him stand out from the other hungry, mistreated boys at the children's home: he is a whiz at soccer.

When an orphanage inspector unexpectedly adopts Arcady and brings him home, the boy has no idea what's going on. Is this man a soccer coach? Why else would he want a child whose parents were labeled enemies of the state?

But as Arcady gets to know the man, he realizes there may be more reasons for people to take care of one another than because they can get something out of it.

Here's another insightful historical fiction from the author of Newbery-honor book Breaking Stalin's Nose, based in the same place and time. And like the other title, kids don't have to be super readers to love this one. It has simple vocabulary, short chapters, and illustrations, and can be devoured in one sitting. ( )

12 year old Arcady lives in an orphanage for children whose parents were taken prisoner for being "Enemies of the State." He quickly learns that his soccer prowess can be put to good use gaining a little extra bread rations for he and the other boys. When an inspector named Ivan Ivanych takes interest in him one day and takes him for foster care, Arcady assumes he is a coach and wants him only for his soccer skills. Ivan tries to fill an empty space in his heart and his home with Arcady and tries to help him achieve his goal to play with the Red Army Soccer Club. Author's notes are helpful in filling in the history of the time. This book is high interest and although a lot of pages, it is a quick read- helpful for reluctant readers. Grades 5-8. ( )

For twelve-year-old Arcady, an orphan, soccer means survival in Stalinist Russia. ( )