Reading Metrics
Description
Holly realises a girl in her class is struggling to make friends, but with the help of their soccer coach they come up with a plan.
Quick Summary
If you've got a young reader who's into soccer or just learning about being a good friend, this one hits the mark. Holly notices a classmate sitting on the sidelines literally and figuratively and instead of ignoring it, she rallies her soccer coach to help brainstorm ways to make this girl feel included. It's only 240 words, so even the most reluctant readers can blast through it in one sitting, but the message about looking out for others sticks around longer than you'd expect. The reading level sits at a solid 2.0, making it perfect for early readers who want something short but meaningful rather than a picture book that feels babyish. Parents will appreciate that it tackles loneliness and friendship without getting preachy the kindness angle feels natural, not forced. It's a great little story for kids who might be starting at a new school or noticing someone who seems left out, and it pairs really nicely with "Each Kindness" by Jacqueline Woodson if you want to keep the friendship-and-emptiness conversation going.