Emergency Quarterback cover

Emergency Quarterback

Author: Wallace, Rich

Reading Metrics

Grade Level Middle Grades (MG 4-8)
Book Level 4.4
Points 2.0
Fiction/Nonfiction Fiction
Word Count 15965
Points per Word 0.000125
Page Count 128
Points per Page 0.015625

Description

When the Hornets' star quarterback suffers a season-ending injury, the backup quarterback proves unable to lead the offense. The coach then turns to the team's reliable receiver, a natural athlete who has never played quarterback before, and asks him to step in as the emergency quarterback. As he learns the playbook, deals with the pressure of the position, and tries to win over his teammates, the season becomes a test of his adaptability and determination.

Quick Summary

If you're looking for a quick, fun sports read, this is a solid choice. The Hornets lose their quarterback right before a big game, and a talented receiver gets thrown into the role suddenly he's got to learn to throw, call plays, and lead a team that barely knows him. It's got that satisfying underdog energy where you root for someone who's way outside their comfort zone but determined to figure it out. Fans of football and kids who just like stories about stepping up when things get hard will probably connect with it most, and at under 16,000 words it's the kind of book that doesn't feel like homework. There's probably some humor, some team drama, and likely a few tense moments where the outcome of a game hangs in the balance standard sports story stuff done in an accessible way. If your kid has read Matt Christopher books and wants more sports fiction, this fits that same vibe. It's a quick read that should keep middle graders entertained without being too heavy, making it good for reluctant readers or anyone who wants something light between bigger chapter books.