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The Playmakers
A fun, funny, and empathy-building story about underdogs who will stop at nothing to get noticed.
Jax has something to prove. After trying out for the basketball team, he and his friend Nic don’t make the final cut. Sure, Jax might be the shortest kid in the seventh grade, and Nic might not have a lot of confidence, but they’ve got skills.
Luke is the tallest kid in the seventh grade. He’s not bad at basketball, but he didn’t even try out for the team. Instead, Luke’s an aspiring actor and auditioned for the school play. Unfortunately, he didn’t get cast.
Jax and Luke decide to take matters into their own hands. They have a wacky, wild, outrageous idea, a plan that is sure to fail — unless it doesn’t.
Jax decides to form his own basketball team and challenge the school team. Luke agrees to join the team, on the condition that Jax and his friends help Luke compete in a regional drama competition.
Miley, probably the smartest kid at school, agrees to help both Jax and Luke. She’s been reading up on sports science and thinks she might have found a way for her friends to win through math. Can a team of underdogs prove to the whole school that they have what it takes to be noticed, or will it all go horribly wrong?
Jax has something to prove. After trying out for the basketball team, he and his friend Nic don’t make the final cut. Sure, Jax might be the shortest kid in the seventh grade, and Nic might not have a lot of confidence, but they’ve got skills.
Luke is the tallest kid in the seventh grade. He’s not bad at basketball, but he didn’t even try out for the team. Instead, Luke’s an aspiring actor and auditioned for the school play. Unfortunately, he didn’t get cast.
Jax and Luke decide to take matters into their own hands. They have a wacky, wild, outrageous idea, a plan that is sure to fail — unless it doesn’t.
Jax decides to form his own basketball team and challenge the school team. Luke agrees to join the team, on the condition that Jax and his friends help Luke compete in a regional drama competition.
Miley, probably the smartest kid at school, agrees to help both Jax and Luke. She’s been reading up on sports science and thinks she might have found a way for her friends to win through math. Can a team of underdogs prove to the whole school that they have what it takes to be noticed, or will it all go horribly wrong?
256 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 1, 2025
8 people are currently reading
2075 people want to read
About the author
Chad Morris
11 books291 followersChad Morris coauthored The Wild Journey of Juniper Berry, Virtually Me, Mustaches for Maddie, Squint, and Willa and the Whale, with his wife, Shelly Brown. He is also the author of the Cragbridge Hall series (The Inventor's Secret, The Avatar Battle, and The Impossible Race). He has won the Utah Book Award, the Buckeye Award, and the Nebraska Book Award, and the Silver Foreword INDIES award for Juvenile fiction. Chad also wrote one of the short stories in True Heroes: A Treasury of Modern-day Fairy Tales Written by Best-selling Authors. His story was based on JP Gibson, an amazing boy who faced cancer with courage, heart, and a basketball dream.
Chad grew up wanting to become a professional basketball player or a rock star. (Inspired by Animal from The Muppets, he has been banging on drums since he was eight years old.) Neither of those plans quite panned out. After high school, he left the Rocky Mountains to live in Brazil for a few years then returned home to write and perform sketch comedy while going to college. He graduated from BYU with a couple of degrees and became a teacher and a curriculum writer.
Chad grew up wanting to become a professional basketball player or a rock star. (Inspired by Animal from The Muppets, he has been banging on drums since he was eight years old.) Neither of those plans quite panned out. After high school, he left the Rocky Mountains to live in Brazil for a few years then returned home to write and perform sketch comedy while going to college. He graduated from BYU with a couple of degrees and became a teacher and a curriculum writer.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 47 reviews
March 30, 2025
What happens when two boys who did everything right still don't make the school basketball team? Jax and Nic don't want to wait until next year to try again.
What about a fellow student who is one of the few not to get a part -- or even a backstage assignment -- in the middle school play? Luke has a drama teacher who seems to prefer a particular type of student and disregards those outside that box.
How does a girl who loves numbers and control find a way to reach out and make some friends? If Miley continues to go it alone, her parents have plans to pull her out of school and homeschool with a cousin.
What if those kids could make a deal and work together to put together a basketball team that could beat the school team and enter also participate in a drama competition? Jax and Nic get their basketball team, Luke gets to show the drama teacher what he's got, and Miley practices sports analysis.
The writing duo of Chad Morris and Shelly Brown has shown us just what kids can do when they support each other and encourage dreams to catch fire and grow.
United, the fire grows brighter. Don't forget that. It's called synergy. Together you can do more. You've proven that. ~ Mr. Juma pregame pep talk.
I loved having chapters from the perspectives of Jax, Luke, and Miley. The Miley installments included doodles and were especially fun in a variety of formats like texting with an advice chatbot, making lists, and more.
These kids have all the moves to make this a winner of a read. Mr. June and Jax's mom are my MVPs.
Thank you to Shadow Mountain and Edelweiss+ for a DRC in exchange for an honest review.
What about a fellow student who is one of the few not to get a part -- or even a backstage assignment -- in the middle school play? Luke has a drama teacher who seems to prefer a particular type of student and disregards those outside that box.
How does a girl who loves numbers and control find a way to reach out and make some friends? If Miley continues to go it alone, her parents have plans to pull her out of school and homeschool with a cousin.
What if those kids could make a deal and work together to put together a basketball team that could beat the school team and enter also participate in a drama competition? Jax and Nic get their basketball team, Luke gets to show the drama teacher what he's got, and Miley practices sports analysis.
The writing duo of Chad Morris and Shelly Brown has shown us just what kids can do when they support each other and encourage dreams to catch fire and grow.
United, the fire grows brighter. Don't forget that. It's called synergy. Together you can do more. You've proven that. ~ Mr. Juma pregame pep talk.
I loved having chapters from the perspectives of Jax, Luke, and Miley. The Miley installments included doodles and were especially fun in a variety of formats like texting with an advice chatbot, making lists, and more.
These kids have all the moves to make this a winner of a read. Mr. June and Jax's mom are my MVPs.
Thank you to Shadow Mountain and Edelweiss+ for a DRC in exchange for an honest review.
March 30, 2025
✰ 3.5 stars ✰
Inspirational, motivational, recreational. There's such a vindictive thrill cheering for the underdog, wanting and hoping that they'll triumph over their adversity and reign supreme and defy the odds of all those who looked down upon them. In their own area of talented expertise, seventh-graders Jax and Luke wanted to shine and be their best - give it their all and prove that whether it's on the basketball court or the theater stage - they belong here. 🏀🎭 That they've worked their butts off to earn the right to be in the spotlight - 'getting your head in the game is critical.'. But when that feeling is stolen from them, there is that combative urge that rises up to defeat those odds - to prove to the naysayers that they're just as capable and talented, even with their shortcomings. And they may be in completely different fields, but they each have something the other wants - well, needs to triumph in glory. It'll only take a lot of patience, a lot of skill, and a lot of learning from both sides if they want to join forces and prove to the school and themselves that they are The Playmakers that are here to stay. 😤
“Sometimes those who are overlooked turn out to be better than those who get all of the attention. Patience, my friend. Good things are coming your way.”
I loved that when Jax was recruiting kids to be on his team to go up against the varsity-selected teammates that he and his best friend, Nic, failed to make the cut, there were girls on their team. Even though they did meet some confrontation, Miranda and Charlotte didn't waste any time whipping them into shape and putting them in their place at their rather myopic views on how to treat a lady. A lady-killer on the court, no less. ⛹️♀️👍🏻 'All I want is a shot.' Jax's optimism, enthusiasm, even daring to go up against the challenges was also really heartwarming and quite inspiring. He wasn't easily daunted, nor easily intimidated; despite his reservations about his short height, he stoutly was convinced that he could put together a winning team. Of course, it wouldn't hurt to have Luke on their side; with his 6'3 frame, he'd be a shoo-in for a perfect center. If only he could let go of his idea of being a theater star. 🥺
Luke's perspective was interesting and a lot more heartbreaking. I liked how he grew to respect basketball, as he drew similarities to acting. 'The crowd. The players. The energy. The scoreboard was all lit up. It was a big deal.' His loneliness of being the odd man out from his theater peers - the singular dislike from his drama teacher - he'll need Jax and Nic on his side so he can prove to her that he has what it takes to be a star. 😅🤝 Enlisting their help may be more difficult than he signed up for, especially when neither of them are putting in as much heart for their pantomime skit as they do win shooting the hoops. But, through hard work and grit, through arguments and quarrels, and most importantly, dedication and teamwork to put their whole heart and energy into it by being 'bigger, braver, crazier,' they might just make it work. 🙂↕️
“It takes timing, a willingness to do huge, fearless things. You can’t be scared about what other people think of you. You’ve got to really own it. Be in all the way.”
I loved that the authors showed that boys cry. Yes, I know they do, but they were not afraid to show their tears of frustration or sadness or even that emotional vulnerability that allowed them to express their feelings honestly and openly. The bitter resentment of being rejected, when all they want is just the chance to be one of the team. 'This was so wrong. I was supposed to be there.' 😢 The humor and snark between Jax and Luke was on point of two complete opposites - butting heads, stubbornly resilient, but still finding that common ground that they were all in this together.👌🏻Even when they behaved pettily or childishly, it felt real. Jax and NIc's friendship, though, really was so wonderful. There was so much heart and trust to their loyalty to one another - the fierce solidarity that shined in their words and actions. That one poignant moment where Nic returned the kindness in such a caring and convincing manner really was very touching. ❤️🩹🫂
The authors shed light on heavy and difficult matters with a gentle touch without allowing it to overtake the story. Bullying, insecurities, determination, and loneliness - the impending struggle of feeling left out. Kids with absentee parents in all forms, kids with devoted single parents with their own personal struggles, kids with teachers who can be the best of them, or the most disappointing of sorts. 😟 Mr.Juma, their English teacher and designated b-ball supervisor was truly a class act - supportive, inspiring and believing in them and learning from them how beautiful it is not to give up. Even though he may have delivered the weirdest pep talk to a basketball game ever, it is what invigorated everyone into a tour de force that was determined to remind everyone that they had proved they belonged here - even striking a fire within me. ❤️🔥😆
“Sometimes, with things like the game tonight,” Mr. Juma said, “if you win, your fire burns really hot. And if you lose, you might be tempted then to let your fire burn out.”
“Don’t burn out. No matter what happens tonight.”
What I struggled with was Miley's perspective, their introverted classmate, who joins them as a strategist and analyst, in the hopes that her parents won't make her go into home-school, if they know that their quiet and withdrawn child is finally making friends - that she has a place to belong. It's not the story-line I had issues with and how her role was an important one, but rather the interactive way in which it was shown; drawings and notes and such. 😕 Maybe it was to fit her personality, or to add like intervals for Jax and Luke's alternating perspectives, but I think if it had been written the same way, it would have impacted me more. 🤷🏻♀️ It also, imo, affected Luke's perspective a bit, because I did not feel as wholly satisfied with how his own personal insecurities were resolved. I wanted a bit of a confrontation, or even a real acknowledgment from his teacher that he had proven himself worthy; but I guess, that would have been too unrealistically soon to believe. 😔
Despite my qualms with the written portrayal, I had no issue with the character, Miley. So many kids at this age feel lost and uncertain where they fit in, second-guessing everything! 😣 And to see her find her place is definitely something to celebrate. Just as heartwarming it was to cheer on Jax and Luke, as they worked hard to earn a second chance, as they fought to claim their rightful place - even if it didn't come with the triumphant results they wanted, it's truly a memorable example of how the struggle is the glory. 🌟
*Thank you to NetGalley for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
“Play like you want it, with fire.”
Inspirational, motivational, recreational. There's such a vindictive thrill cheering for the underdog, wanting and hoping that they'll triumph over their adversity and reign supreme and defy the odds of all those who looked down upon them. In their own area of talented expertise, seventh-graders Jax and Luke wanted to shine and be their best - give it their all and prove that whether it's on the basketball court or the theater stage - they belong here. 🏀🎭 That they've worked their butts off to earn the right to be in the spotlight - 'getting your head in the game is critical.'. But when that feeling is stolen from them, there is that combative urge that rises up to defeat those odds - to prove to the naysayers that they're just as capable and talented, even with their shortcomings. And they may be in completely different fields, but they each have something the other wants - well, needs to triumph in glory. It'll only take a lot of patience, a lot of skill, and a lot of learning from both sides if they want to join forces and prove to the school and themselves that they are The Playmakers that are here to stay. 😤
“Sometimes those who are overlooked turn out to be better than those who get all of the attention. Patience, my friend. Good things are coming your way.”
I loved that when Jax was recruiting kids to be on his team to go up against the varsity-selected teammates that he and his best friend, Nic, failed to make the cut, there were girls on their team. Even though they did meet some confrontation, Miranda and Charlotte didn't waste any time whipping them into shape and putting them in their place at their rather myopic views on how to treat a lady. A lady-killer on the court, no less. ⛹️♀️👍🏻 'All I want is a shot.' Jax's optimism, enthusiasm, even daring to go up against the challenges was also really heartwarming and quite inspiring. He wasn't easily daunted, nor easily intimidated; despite his reservations about his short height, he stoutly was convinced that he could put together a winning team. Of course, it wouldn't hurt to have Luke on their side; with his 6'3 frame, he'd be a shoo-in for a perfect center. If only he could let go of his idea of being a theater star. 🥺
Luke's perspective was interesting and a lot more heartbreaking. I liked how he grew to respect basketball, as he drew similarities to acting. 'The crowd. The players. The energy. The scoreboard was all lit up. It was a big deal.' His loneliness of being the odd man out from his theater peers - the singular dislike from his drama teacher - he'll need Jax and Nic on his side so he can prove to her that he has what it takes to be a star. 😅🤝 Enlisting their help may be more difficult than he signed up for, especially when neither of them are putting in as much heart for their pantomime skit as they do win shooting the hoops. But, through hard work and grit, through arguments and quarrels, and most importantly, dedication and teamwork to put their whole heart and energy into it by being 'bigger, braver, crazier,' they might just make it work. 🙂↕️
“It takes timing, a willingness to do huge, fearless things. You can’t be scared about what other people think of you. You’ve got to really own it. Be in all the way.”
I loved that the authors showed that boys cry. Yes, I know they do, but they were not afraid to show their tears of frustration or sadness or even that emotional vulnerability that allowed them to express their feelings honestly and openly. The bitter resentment of being rejected, when all they want is just the chance to be one of the team. 'This was so wrong. I was supposed to be there.' 😢 The humor and snark between Jax and Luke was on point of two complete opposites - butting heads, stubbornly resilient, but still finding that common ground that they were all in this together.👌🏻Even when they behaved pettily or childishly, it felt real. Jax and NIc's friendship, though, really was so wonderful. There was so much heart and trust to their loyalty to one another - the fierce solidarity that shined in their words and actions. That one poignant moment where Nic returned the kindness in such a caring and convincing manner really was very touching. ❤️🩹🫂
The authors shed light on heavy and difficult matters with a gentle touch without allowing it to overtake the story. Bullying, insecurities, determination, and loneliness - the impending struggle of feeling left out. Kids with absentee parents in all forms, kids with devoted single parents with their own personal struggles, kids with teachers who can be the best of them, or the most disappointing of sorts. 😟 Mr.Juma, their English teacher and designated b-ball supervisor was truly a class act - supportive, inspiring and believing in them and learning from them how beautiful it is not to give up. Even though he may have delivered the weirdest pep talk to a basketball game ever, it is what invigorated everyone into a tour de force that was determined to remind everyone that they had proved they belonged here - even striking a fire within me. ❤️🔥😆
“Sometimes, with things like the game tonight,” Mr. Juma said, “if you win, your fire burns really hot. And if you lose, you might be tempted then to let your fire burn out.”
“Don’t burn out. No matter what happens tonight.”
What I struggled with was Miley's perspective, their introverted classmate, who joins them as a strategist and analyst, in the hopes that her parents won't make her go into home-school, if they know that their quiet and withdrawn child is finally making friends - that she has a place to belong. It's not the story-line I had issues with and how her role was an important one, but rather the interactive way in which it was shown; drawings and notes and such. 😕 Maybe it was to fit her personality, or to add like intervals for Jax and Luke's alternating perspectives, but I think if it had been written the same way, it would have impacted me more. 🤷🏻♀️ It also, imo, affected Luke's perspective a bit, because I did not feel as wholly satisfied with how his own personal insecurities were resolved. I wanted a bit of a confrontation, or even a real acknowledgment from his teacher that he had proven himself worthy; but I guess, that would have been too unrealistically soon to believe. 😔
Despite my qualms with the written portrayal, I had no issue with the character, Miley. So many kids at this age feel lost and uncertain where they fit in, second-guessing everything! 😣 And to see her find her place is definitely something to celebrate. Just as heartwarming it was to cheer on Jax and Luke, as they worked hard to earn a second chance, as they fought to claim their rightful place - even if it didn't come with the triumphant results they wanted, it's truly a memorable example of how the struggle is the glory. 🌟
*Thank you to NetGalley for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
August 14, 2025
Jax and Nic, friends forever, are ready to take on basketball tryouts. They practiced the entire summer, following the regimen that Coach gave them, times two. In a different friend group, Luke is so ready to slay the play tryouts after performing in musical theater over the summer and practicing his monologue until he has it down cold. When all three are disappointed, and basically told "try harder," Jax is so infuriated he confronts the coach and tells him he is putting together his own team to challenge the middle school's varsity team, with the understanding that if they win, Jax and Nic will be on the team in their eighth-grade year. Meanwhile, Miley is stressed about having to be homeschooled with her cousin unless she starts making friends in school. When these unlikely kids come together in a group with tradeoffs on each side, watch out! This is a great book about following a dream and working to make it happen through grit and honing talent.
March 28, 2025
I really enjoyed this book about kids with different interests coming together. The way the characters begin to understand themselves and others was awesome.
This is the second book I have read by this duo and I highly recommend both!
This is the second book I have read by this duo and I highly recommend both!
November 25, 2024
E ARC provided by Edelweiss Plus
Extracurriculars are booming at Hopson Middle School! Jax and Nic, longtime friends, hope to make the basketball team, even though Jax is the second shortest kid in their grade. Once the make the middle school team, they plan to be at the odds and go on to college and professional careers. Meanwhile, Luke hopes to get cast in the play along with his friends. Miley is having trouble making friends at school, so needs to find a group to join before her parents have her homeschooled along with her annoying cousin. Sadly, Luke is the only one of his friends who doesn't get cast, and Jax and Nic don't make the team. Jax even approaches the coach and makes his case; both boys need a break, since their single moms can't afford the fancy camps the other kids attend, and since Nic's father is prison, it would be a welcome bit of luck for him. The coach says that the boys just aren't good enough for the team, but agrees that if Jax can set up his own team and beat the Hawks in a scrimmage, both boys will be put on the varsity team next year. Luke is shown an opportunity for a theatrical competition by Mr. Juma, but needs a couple of others to work with him. Luke is tall, and when Jax is putting together a team, the two reluctantly join forces. Jax also recruits the other boys who almost made the team, along with Martina and Charlotte. Miley becomes their statistician and helps them identify ways to win. Mr. Juma even gets involved, serving as their "coach" while he grades papers in the bleachers when the group practices at 6 a.m. It's not easy to put together a team and figure out strategies on their own, and Jax even doubts his own abilities at some point. Aside from just keeping the kids busy, will these forays into independent projects in their chosen fields allow them to actually make progress towards their goals of turning their interests into careers?
Strengths: A large number of middle school boys really believe that they can grow up to play professional basketball, so this will have an immediate draw! There aren't quite as many who want to pursue theater, but the two activities got tied together in a very clever way. I enjoyed the fact that the boys didn't just give up when they didn't get to work on their skills in a school setting. This is a great message, since there are plenty of kids who don't make sports teams or get cast in school productions. This was from multiple points of view, and Miley's chapters included some illustrations and had lettered text that discussed her challenges in making friends and her discussions with her therapist. I also really liked how both Martina and Charlotte were welcomed onto the team without comment, and how they were able to stand up to the Hawks when they trash talked them. As I tell the boys' cross country team just about every year: if you want to win the district championship, you need to run like girls! This moved quickly, and the cover will appeal to basketball fans.
Weaknesses: The story would have progressed more smoothly with a third person omniscient narrator; I know authors love to write from different perspectives, but it does make the story jump around. Also, 6th graders in Ohio can't be on sports teams with older students, and I doubt that the coach would be able to put Jax and Nic on the varsity team because they won a bet with him.
What I really think: This is a good choice for readers who like to combine sports topics with the performing arts and enjoyed Friday Nigth Stage Lights or Mided's Club Kick Out. Brown and Morris are also the authors of Squint.
Extracurriculars are booming at Hopson Middle School! Jax and Nic, longtime friends, hope to make the basketball team, even though Jax is the second shortest kid in their grade. Once the make the middle school team, they plan to be at the odds and go on to college and professional careers. Meanwhile, Luke hopes to get cast in the play along with his friends. Miley is having trouble making friends at school, so needs to find a group to join before her parents have her homeschooled along with her annoying cousin. Sadly, Luke is the only one of his friends who doesn't get cast, and Jax and Nic don't make the team. Jax even approaches the coach and makes his case; both boys need a break, since their single moms can't afford the fancy camps the other kids attend, and since Nic's father is prison, it would be a welcome bit of luck for him. The coach says that the boys just aren't good enough for the team, but agrees that if Jax can set up his own team and beat the Hawks in a scrimmage, both boys will be put on the varsity team next year. Luke is shown an opportunity for a theatrical competition by Mr. Juma, but needs a couple of others to work with him. Luke is tall, and when Jax is putting together a team, the two reluctantly join forces. Jax also recruits the other boys who almost made the team, along with Martina and Charlotte. Miley becomes their statistician and helps them identify ways to win. Mr. Juma even gets involved, serving as their "coach" while he grades papers in the bleachers when the group practices at 6 a.m. It's not easy to put together a team and figure out strategies on their own, and Jax even doubts his own abilities at some point. Aside from just keeping the kids busy, will these forays into independent projects in their chosen fields allow them to actually make progress towards their goals of turning their interests into careers?
Strengths: A large number of middle school boys really believe that they can grow up to play professional basketball, so this will have an immediate draw! There aren't quite as many who want to pursue theater, but the two activities got tied together in a very clever way. I enjoyed the fact that the boys didn't just give up when they didn't get to work on their skills in a school setting. This is a great message, since there are plenty of kids who don't make sports teams or get cast in school productions. This was from multiple points of view, and Miley's chapters included some illustrations and had lettered text that discussed her challenges in making friends and her discussions with her therapist. I also really liked how both Martina and Charlotte were welcomed onto the team without comment, and how they were able to stand up to the Hawks when they trash talked them. As I tell the boys' cross country team just about every year: if you want to win the district championship, you need to run like girls! This moved quickly, and the cover will appeal to basketball fans.
Weaknesses: The story would have progressed more smoothly with a third person omniscient narrator; I know authors love to write from different perspectives, but it does make the story jump around. Also, 6th graders in Ohio can't be on sports teams with older students, and I doubt that the coach would be able to put Jax and Nic on the varsity team because they won a bet with him.
What I really think: This is a good choice for readers who like to combine sports topics with the performing arts and enjoyed Friday Nigth Stage Lights or Mided's Club Kick Out. Brown and Morris are also the authors of Squint.
April 5, 2025
We went back and forth, back and forth, scoring and defending. We did lots of our plays: the Whirly Twirly, the Fake ‘n Bake, the Teal Steal, and the Sassy Pass. And newer ones we’d come up with, like the ‘Oh, no, you Din’t,’ the Sneaky Sneak, and the Vader Elevator.” (ARC 180)
What I love most about Chad Morris and Shelly Brown’s novels are the characters. They are each so vivid and so different and so memorable. The Playmakers are a group of kids that probably never would have come together but do.
Jax, who is one of the shortest seventh graders, and his best friend Nic, who is teased, bullied, or ignored because his father is in jail, love basketball. Willing to play on even the JV team, they are cut for the second year in a row which lowers their chances of making the team the next year or in high school. Devastated, but creative, Jax decides they will form their own team and he challenges the coach to not just playing against the school JV team but the varsity team for a chance to join the team in eighth grade.
And form a team he does: Charlotte and Martina come willingly from the girls’ team, and Will and Koa are finally talked into it— and then there is the very tall Luke who loves acting more than anything but is one of the few kids—and the only one of his group of friends—cut from the school musical. Jax knows the team can’t compete without him. To get him to join, Jax has to agree that he and Nic will enter a pantomime contest with Luke which he thinks may be his way to finally win over the drama teacher. They later expand the team to anyone who wants to join on the advice of their statistician, Miley, a girl with no friends but a love of math who needs to make friends so her parents don’t decide to homeschool her. And then there’s their advisor, Mr. Juma, the ELA teacher who is ”the least horrible teacher here” (according to Jax) and has no interest in basketball. And my favorite, Jax’s completely supportive and cheerleader mother.
What a ragtag team, but team that never quits. Told in different perspectives by Jax, Luke, and Miley, this is a story that will capture the most reluctant readers and enthrall all readers. Morris and Brown’s new story is realistic, humorous, fun, and fast-paced, with characters that exeplify the middle school experience.
What I love most about Chad Morris and Shelly Brown’s novels are the characters. They are each so vivid and so different and so memorable. The Playmakers are a group of kids that probably never would have come together but do.
Jax, who is one of the shortest seventh graders, and his best friend Nic, who is teased, bullied, or ignored because his father is in jail, love basketball. Willing to play on even the JV team, they are cut for the second year in a row which lowers their chances of making the team the next year or in high school. Devastated, but creative, Jax decides they will form their own team and he challenges the coach to not just playing against the school JV team but the varsity team for a chance to join the team in eighth grade.
And form a team he does: Charlotte and Martina come willingly from the girls’ team, and Will and Koa are finally talked into it— and then there is the very tall Luke who loves acting more than anything but is one of the few kids—and the only one of his group of friends—cut from the school musical. Jax knows the team can’t compete without him. To get him to join, Jax has to agree that he and Nic will enter a pantomime contest with Luke which he thinks may be his way to finally win over the drama teacher. They later expand the team to anyone who wants to join on the advice of their statistician, Miley, a girl with no friends but a love of math who needs to make friends so her parents don’t decide to homeschool her. And then there’s their advisor, Mr. Juma, the ELA teacher who is ”the least horrible teacher here” (according to Jax) and has no interest in basketball. And my favorite, Jax’s completely supportive and cheerleader mother.
What a ragtag team, but team that never quits. Told in different perspectives by Jax, Luke, and Miley, this is a story that will capture the most reluctant readers and enthrall all readers. Morris and Brown’s new story is realistic, humorous, fun, and fast-paced, with characters that exeplify the middle school experience.
January 31, 2026
Jax (12) is the shortest seventh grade boy whose whole life seems to surround basketball. Nic (12) is the best friend of Jax, who may or may not like basketball his character is never developed enough to know for sure. Luke (12) is 6'3" and good at basketball but really loves theater, only the theater teacher does not like him, and he has self confidence issues. Miley (12) a girl who has autistic traits although it is never said that she is autistic, she loves math especially statistics, has a hard time not knowing all the answers and needs to make friends or her parents will homeschool her.
Jax and Nic try out for the basketball team but don't make the cuts and Jax is so angry (he calls it fired up) that he challenges the coach to a game with a team he will make himself. Jax and Nic are joined by two girls who want to show that they can play just as well as the boys (and they can) another boy who was cut from the team, a new boy who just moved in and played football before but needs some friends and Luke who only agrees to play if Jax and Nic help him with a Drama contest.
The narration is done in the voices of Jax, Luke and Miley. I listened to the audio version and every chapter starts with the name of the narrator and each time it was Luke I was transported to Star Wars because of they way his name was said. Jax's character is over the top and if I was reading the book I would have skimmed all his lines. Miley is quiet and I liked her part, but it was so minor I wish the authors had given her a larger role.
The main conflict is getting Luke and Jax to see things from a different perspective and give real effort into helping each other. The resolution comes as they learn to do that and as they all realise that they have done something amazing and it doesn't matter if they win.
They story is great for boy or girls and I think it is clean enough to be read by a teacher in class or by a parent reading with their child. There is no sex, no language and the teasing and bullying is all verbal and not a main focus.
I liked the whole idea of the underdogs working hard to prove they are just a worthy as the star players. As a guide to life it was more of an example of how much work it takes to make changes in the world so that the next group to come along has an easier time.
This is a book worth reading.
Jax and Nic try out for the basketball team but don't make the cuts and Jax is so angry (he calls it fired up) that he challenges the coach to a game with a team he will make himself. Jax and Nic are joined by two girls who want to show that they can play just as well as the boys (and they can) another boy who was cut from the team, a new boy who just moved in and played football before but needs some friends and Luke who only agrees to play if Jax and Nic help him with a Drama contest.
The narration is done in the voices of Jax, Luke and Miley. I listened to the audio version and every chapter starts with the name of the narrator and each time it was Luke I was transported to Star Wars because of they way his name was said. Jax's character is over the top and if I was reading the book I would have skimmed all his lines. Miley is quiet and I liked her part, but it was so minor I wish the authors had given her a larger role.
The main conflict is getting Luke and Jax to see things from a different perspective and give real effort into helping each other. The resolution comes as they learn to do that and as they all realise that they have done something amazing and it doesn't matter if they win.
They story is great for boy or girls and I think it is clean enough to be read by a teacher in class or by a parent reading with their child. There is no sex, no language and the teasing and bullying is all verbal and not a main focus.
I liked the whole idea of the underdogs working hard to prove they are just a worthy as the star players. As a guide to life it was more of an example of how much work it takes to make changes in the world so that the next group to come along has an easier time.
This is a book worth reading.
May 2, 2025
“I don’t think you should Ever. Quit. Trying.”
The Playmakers is a clever, touching, middle grade book that’ll have you cheering for the underdogs! Filled with humor, endearing characters, the thrill of competition, & messages every kid needs to hear, Chad Morris & Shelly Brown deliver another inspirational winner.
Jax, Nic, Luke, & Miley all have something to prove. Jax & Nic love basketball & are devastated when they don’t make the team. Even though Jax is the shortest kid in seventh grade & Nic struggles with self esteem & is teased for having a dad in jail, they have skills. Jax decides he’ll form his own team to compete with the school’s team & show the coach he & Nic have what it takes. Luke is tall & pretty good at basketball, but he didn’t try out & dreams of doing theater. When he’s the only one cut from the play, he agrees to join Jax’s team if he’ll help him win a theater competition. Miley is a shy kid who excels at math, but her parents want to have her homeschooled if she can’t overcome fears & find a place to fit in. As these kids all come together with some amazing help from a teacher, mom, & some fabulous girl basketball players, they might just have a chance to compete.
I thoroughly enjoyed this story! There were so many positive messages showing kids that they should go after their dreams even when the odds are stacked against them. I also loved the message of coming together to help each other even if unsuccessful in the end. As a mom with a son who loves theater, it was fun seeing that aspect of the story. I also loved the contrast between supportive & absentee parents, & teachers who are helpful & those who can be devastatingly detrimental.
The characters were endearing & I enjoyed the emotional range they represent. Each has unique challenges & I loved seeing how they helped each other grow & become more confident. Miley’s story is uniquely told through doodles, texts, lists, & notes. While I somewhat missed her narrative, the illustrations showcased her personality.
All in all, a relatable, heartwarming, inspiring, humorous book middle grade & up readers will enjoy. I received an advanced copy from the publisher with no expectation of a review. All opinions are completely my own & voluntarily provided.
The Playmakers is a clever, touching, middle grade book that’ll have you cheering for the underdogs! Filled with humor, endearing characters, the thrill of competition, & messages every kid needs to hear, Chad Morris & Shelly Brown deliver another inspirational winner.
Jax, Nic, Luke, & Miley all have something to prove. Jax & Nic love basketball & are devastated when they don’t make the team. Even though Jax is the shortest kid in seventh grade & Nic struggles with self esteem & is teased for having a dad in jail, they have skills. Jax decides he’ll form his own team to compete with the school’s team & show the coach he & Nic have what it takes. Luke is tall & pretty good at basketball, but he didn’t try out & dreams of doing theater. When he’s the only one cut from the play, he agrees to join Jax’s team if he’ll help him win a theater competition. Miley is a shy kid who excels at math, but her parents want to have her homeschooled if she can’t overcome fears & find a place to fit in. As these kids all come together with some amazing help from a teacher, mom, & some fabulous girl basketball players, they might just have a chance to compete.
I thoroughly enjoyed this story! There were so many positive messages showing kids that they should go after their dreams even when the odds are stacked against them. I also loved the message of coming together to help each other even if unsuccessful in the end. As a mom with a son who loves theater, it was fun seeing that aspect of the story. I also loved the contrast between supportive & absentee parents, & teachers who are helpful & those who can be devastatingly detrimental.
The characters were endearing & I enjoyed the emotional range they represent. Each has unique challenges & I loved seeing how they helped each other grow & become more confident. Miley’s story is uniquely told through doodles, texts, lists, & notes. While I somewhat missed her narrative, the illustrations showcased her personality.
All in all, a relatable, heartwarming, inspiring, humorous book middle grade & up readers will enjoy. I received an advanced copy from the publisher with no expectation of a review. All opinions are completely my own & voluntarily provided.
April 10, 2025
Have you ever been cut or rejected from something you cared deeply about? I was definitely reflecting on those times in my life as I read this story and thinking about what came after those experiences.
I absolutely loved The Playmakers and highly recommend it! This brand new middle grade novel follows two friends with a deep love for basketball that get cut from the team despite all their hard work. They decide to form their own team and recruit others to join them including an aspiring actor who got cut from the school play. He has the assets they need for their team and agrees to join on the condition they join him in competing in a drama competition. There is also a POV from a math loving girl struggling to socialize who is able to bring in her unique skills to help them analyze their strengths and weaknesses in a new way. Some of her thoughts are depicted in a fun graphic style format.
I am a huge fan of underdog stories and stories where people with different skills band together to be their best together. This story was so full of heart and humor as well as beautiful friendship, truly seeing others past labels, and the impact of a caring teacher. It has the feel of movies like The Mighty Ducks where “misfit” underdogs hone into their strengths and take on a skilled team, but with even more heart and depth.
This would be perfect for kids who are riding the high of March Madness right now but it’s also great for readers who have no interest in basketball, because it goes far beyond that as well. There’s plenty of theater, math, and just an overall engaging plot. I have read a few books by this author duo and I feel like they capture the juvenile voice so well and delve into really relatable and meaningful storylines.
I absolutely loved The Playmakers and highly recommend it! This brand new middle grade novel follows two friends with a deep love for basketball that get cut from the team despite all their hard work. They decide to form their own team and recruit others to join them including an aspiring actor who got cut from the school play. He has the assets they need for their team and agrees to join on the condition they join him in competing in a drama competition. There is also a POV from a math loving girl struggling to socialize who is able to bring in her unique skills to help them analyze their strengths and weaknesses in a new way. Some of her thoughts are depicted in a fun graphic style format.
I am a huge fan of underdog stories and stories where people with different skills band together to be their best together. This story was so full of heart and humor as well as beautiful friendship, truly seeing others past labels, and the impact of a caring teacher. It has the feel of movies like The Mighty Ducks where “misfit” underdogs hone into their strengths and take on a skilled team, but with even more heart and depth.
This would be perfect for kids who are riding the high of March Madness right now but it’s also great for readers who have no interest in basketball, because it goes far beyond that as well. There’s plenty of theater, math, and just an overall engaging plot. I have read a few books by this author duo and I feel like they capture the juvenile voice so well and delve into really relatable and meaningful storylines.
April 19, 2025
Dear Team Immortals,
You guys are AMAZING! I loved reading your story in The Playmakers. It was relatable and fun. It was also a reminder of how we all need a good team to support us. I loved how you all learned that too.
My favorite part of the book was how you faced rejection and disappointment, loneliness and the unknown. You didn’t let it stop you. You came up with a plan to overcome the difficulties you were facing, and I loved that! It’s so easy to give up, and think you’re not good enough. Jax and Nic, you practiced day after day to get better at basketball. Luke, you found something you loved in theatre and auditioned. Miley, you took your love of stats and used it to help your peers all while putting yourself outside your comfort zone. You all helped others who needed a place to belong. That is awesome! I hope my children are like you. I want to be like you.
As a mother, I remember how “fun” jr. high can be. It had fun moments(Really, it did.), but it was also a time of learning and growing into who I am. I remember wanting to fit in and have friends, but sometimes I also just felt alone. I have children at this stage, and reading your story reminded me of how hard it can be to grow up. I often get caught up in all things that an adult and parent need to get done, and forget how hard being a teenager can be. You reminded me of that and I’m grateful. It gave me a moment to think how I can better be that support and cheerleader for my children. Thanks for that!
I often judge a book by if I’ll read it again, and yours will definitely be read again. I loved it. I want to read it with my children, and talk about how they can be the good in the world too.
Sincerely,
A Very Grateful Reader
I received a complimentary copy. A positive review was not required.
You guys are AMAZING! I loved reading your story in The Playmakers. It was relatable and fun. It was also a reminder of how we all need a good team to support us. I loved how you all learned that too.
My favorite part of the book was how you faced rejection and disappointment, loneliness and the unknown. You didn’t let it stop you. You came up with a plan to overcome the difficulties you were facing, and I loved that! It’s so easy to give up, and think you’re not good enough. Jax and Nic, you practiced day after day to get better at basketball. Luke, you found something you loved in theatre and auditioned. Miley, you took your love of stats and used it to help your peers all while putting yourself outside your comfort zone. You all helped others who needed a place to belong. That is awesome! I hope my children are like you. I want to be like you.
As a mother, I remember how “fun” jr. high can be. It had fun moments(Really, it did.), but it was also a time of learning and growing into who I am. I remember wanting to fit in and have friends, but sometimes I also just felt alone. I have children at this stage, and reading your story reminded me of how hard it can be to grow up. I often get caught up in all things that an adult and parent need to get done, and forget how hard being a teenager can be. You reminded me of that and I’m grateful. It gave me a moment to think how I can better be that support and cheerleader for my children. Thanks for that!
I often judge a book by if I’ll read it again, and yours will definitely be read again. I loved it. I want to read it with my children, and talk about how they can be the good in the world too.
Sincerely,
A Very Grateful Reader
I received a complimentary copy. A positive review was not required.
May 22, 2025
Jax has fire when it comes to basketball, but his short stature in 7th grade means he doesn't make the basketball team, and neither does his best friend Nic. Luke is the tallest kid in 7th grade and all of his friends are the drama kids, but he flubs his audition and isn't cast, while all of his friends are. Miley is super-smart, but has no idea how this "friends" thing works. These three come together when Jax decides to put together a basketball team to challenge the school teams and prove they have what it takes. He's determined to recruit Luke, but Luke only agrees if Jax and Nic will help him out in a regional drama competition, so Luke can prove he belongs onstage. Miley starts studying sports statistics, and offers to help in that way. Can a bunch of underdogs succeed together?
I both liked this and got frustrated with it. The characters were interesting and had well-constructed backstories, but the plethora of side characters made it hard to keep track of them all. Miley gets kind of short shrift overall. Also, I felt that the book could have started about a third of the way in. The summary gives away what happens in the first third of the book, so it felt repetitive and overlong to listen to the unfolding of the events that it summarized. I also felt that the basketball side of this was the real focus, and the theater part got overshadowed. For kids who love basketball, that's a win--lots of good description of bball action. For kids who love theater, they'll probably be a bit disappointed. So, I liked the main characters, and enjoyed most of the story, but it wasn't perfect for me. Thanks to Libro.FM for a free educator copy of the audiobook.
I both liked this and got frustrated with it. The characters were interesting and had well-constructed backstories, but the plethora of side characters made it hard to keep track of them all. Miley gets kind of short shrift overall. Also, I felt that the book could have started about a third of the way in. The summary gives away what happens in the first third of the book, so it felt repetitive and overlong to listen to the unfolding of the events that it summarized. I also felt that the basketball side of this was the real focus, and the theater part got overshadowed. For kids who love basketball, that's a win--lots of good description of bball action. For kids who love theater, they'll probably be a bit disappointed. So, I liked the main characters, and enjoyed most of the story, but it wasn't perfect for me. Thanks to Libro.FM for a free educator copy of the audiobook.
June 13, 2025
Chad Morris and Shelly Brown have outdone themselves again with another fantastic middle-grade novel! This sports-packed story is brimming with exciting highs, challenging lows, and plenty of friendly competition.
In The Playmakers, we meet three amazing kids. First up is Jax, a shorter basketball player who's set on making the school team. When he doesn't quite make the cut, he bravely decides to start his own team to challenge the varsity squad – a super cool idea that turns out to be trickier than he expected!
Then there's Luke, a drama enthusiast who misses out on the school play. He's determined to show his drama teacher what he can do, so he enters a contest. He needs a partner, and in exchange for some help with the contest, he agrees to play center for Jax's new team!
Last but not least, we have Miley, who's a bit quiet and shy and has a tough time making friends. She knows she needs to find a group soon, or her parents might have her homeschooling with her, well, annoying cousin!
It's truly inspiring to see how each of these kids faces their challenges with so much courage and persistence. This book sends such a wonderful message to kids: never give up and always keep trying! I especially loved how The Playmakers shows that even when you put in tons of effort, winning isn't always the main goal. It's totally okay if you don't get first place, as long as you tried your best and didn't give up! I'm confident that kids, especially those between 10 and 15, will love this story. Plus, it would make a fantastic read-aloud at home or in the classroom. This entertaining and inspiring novel is an absolute must-read for summer
In The Playmakers, we meet three amazing kids. First up is Jax, a shorter basketball player who's set on making the school team. When he doesn't quite make the cut, he bravely decides to start his own team to challenge the varsity squad – a super cool idea that turns out to be trickier than he expected!
Then there's Luke, a drama enthusiast who misses out on the school play. He's determined to show his drama teacher what he can do, so he enters a contest. He needs a partner, and in exchange for some help with the contest, he agrees to play center for Jax's new team!
Last but not least, we have Miley, who's a bit quiet and shy and has a tough time making friends. She knows she needs to find a group soon, or her parents might have her homeschooling with her, well, annoying cousin!
It's truly inspiring to see how each of these kids faces their challenges with so much courage and persistence. This book sends such a wonderful message to kids: never give up and always keep trying! I especially loved how The Playmakers shows that even when you put in tons of effort, winning isn't always the main goal. It's totally okay if you don't get first place, as long as you tried your best and didn't give up! I'm confident that kids, especially those between 10 and 15, will love this story. Plus, it would make a fantastic read-aloud at home or in the classroom. This entertaining and inspiring novel is an absolute must-read for summer
April 11, 2025
What a fun story! Once I started it, I couldn’t put it down. I loved seeing the kids come together and the growth each one displayed.
The story is in multiple POVs and I liked getting into the different narrators’ heads. Jax, Luke, and Miley all had their own personal struggles as they worked together and each once grew over the book. They each discovered new sides of themselves as they went out of their comfort zones.
I loved Jax’s ambition and energy. He was so determined and creative in trying to find a way to prove his and Nic’s basketball skills. Even though in many ways they were the underdogs, Jax and Nic had such a great support system. I loved their moms and how they showed up for them! Luke also had to stretch himself as he pursued his love of theater. I was excited to see him find confidence and new parts of himself. I really felt for Miley! She was probably the one pushed most outside of her comfort zone with the team. I admired her bravery as she sought to build friendships and to show herself competent in supporting the team. I definitely felt her desire to prove herself useful!
This was such a exciting story! I loved how the team came together and the themes of perseverance and strength. I also really enjoyed the side characters! Jax and Nic’s family were so much fun and Mr. Juma was such a great teacher! The characters felt very real and so many like people I would really like to know! This was a fun MG novel that I would definitely recommend!
I received an ARC.
The story is in multiple POVs and I liked getting into the different narrators’ heads. Jax, Luke, and Miley all had their own personal struggles as they worked together and each once grew over the book. They each discovered new sides of themselves as they went out of their comfort zones.
I loved Jax’s ambition and energy. He was so determined and creative in trying to find a way to prove his and Nic’s basketball skills. Even though in many ways they were the underdogs, Jax and Nic had such a great support system. I loved their moms and how they showed up for them! Luke also had to stretch himself as he pursued his love of theater. I was excited to see him find confidence and new parts of himself. I really felt for Miley! She was probably the one pushed most outside of her comfort zone with the team. I admired her bravery as she sought to build friendships and to show herself competent in supporting the team. I definitely felt her desire to prove herself useful!
This was such a exciting story! I loved how the team came together and the themes of perseverance and strength. I also really enjoyed the side characters! Jax and Nic’s family were so much fun and Mr. Juma was such a great teacher! The characters felt very real and so many like people I would really like to know! This was a fun MG novel that I would definitely recommend!
I received an ARC.
May 2, 2025
I’ve been sitting on this review for a minute, because I wanted to find the right words to convey how special this book was to me. It might sound a little silly, right? It’s just a middle school book… but it was a lot more than that to my son. My son read this book and it became everything to him. He felt as though these authors wrote him into their story. He is in the same grade, and my son is also the shortest kid in the grade. That last fact tends to be a real struggle for him. He HATES it. He gets teased relentlessly, both by people trying to just tease their friend and kids who are trying to be mean. And, it gets old. So for him to see this character, who reminds him of himself, be so AWESOME, was soo good for him. A persons character and worth is not determined by their size. And he loved how that was shown in this book.
This has become one of his absolute favorite books! He had read it multiple times already. Thank you from the bottom of my heart to these authors for writing this book and character; for helping my son see that there really is so much more than just his size. All of your books were quickly added to our list of books to buy, and we will be reading them all. 💙
I highly recommend this book to everyone, big and small. 😊 The story is SO much fun!!! And it will teach your young readers so much about friendship and worth.
Thank you to the authors and publisher for an advance copy. All opinions are my own.
This has become one of his absolute favorite books! He had read it multiple times already. Thank you from the bottom of my heart to these authors for writing this book and character; for helping my son see that there really is so much more than just his size. All of your books were quickly added to our list of books to buy, and we will be reading them all. 💙
I highly recommend this book to everyone, big and small. 😊 The story is SO much fun!!! And it will teach your young readers so much about friendship and worth.
Thank you to the authors and publisher for an advance copy. All opinions are my own.
April 1, 2025
The Playmakers exceeded my expectations in every way. Told from the perspectives of three distinct students—outgoing Jax, theater fanatic Luke, and shy, quiet Miley—this novel immediately captured my attention.
The story begins when Jax and his best friend, Nic, fail to make the basketball team. Determined not to give up, they decide to form their own team with other students who didn’t make the cut. The school’s official coach agrees to let Jax and Nic join if they can defeat the school team in a game. Luke reluctantly joins, but only on the condition that Jax and Nic help him with a theater competition. Meanwhile, Miley offers to be the team’s statistics analyst, tracking their progress and pinpointing areas for improvement. As the kids struggle to understand each other, one thing is clear—they are all in it to win.
Ratings:
Creativity 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
Humor 🤣🤣
Adventure/Excitement ⚔️⚔️⚔️
Character Development 📖📖📖📖
Heart/Emotional Impact ❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
Perfect for Ages: 9 and up
I absolutely loved this book. The way the authors incorporated Miley’s perspective through drawings and little notes was incredibly creative and made me look forward to her sections. The story held my attention from start to finish—I never wasted a moment when I could be reading. The Playmakers is truly an unforgettable experience.
The story begins when Jax and his best friend, Nic, fail to make the basketball team. Determined not to give up, they decide to form their own team with other students who didn’t make the cut. The school’s official coach agrees to let Jax and Nic join if they can defeat the school team in a game. Luke reluctantly joins, but only on the condition that Jax and Nic help him with a theater competition. Meanwhile, Miley offers to be the team’s statistics analyst, tracking their progress and pinpointing areas for improvement. As the kids struggle to understand each other, one thing is clear—they are all in it to win.
Ratings:
Creativity 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
Humor 🤣🤣
Adventure/Excitement ⚔️⚔️⚔️
Character Development 📖📖📖📖
Heart/Emotional Impact ❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
Perfect for Ages: 9 and up
I absolutely loved this book. The way the authors incorporated Miley’s perspective through drawings and little notes was incredibly creative and made me look forward to her sections. The story held my attention from start to finish—I never wasted a moment when I could be reading. The Playmakers is truly an unforgettable experience.
May 7, 2025
I love getting to read books by Chad Morris and Shelly Brown with my son. Their books are just so well written. The stories draw the reader in. The characters are so great. Just everything about them are amazing.
I loved the way this book has three main characters that the reader gets to learn about. These three characters are really the heart and soul of this book.
We've got Jax. He is a short guy who wants to play basketball. Unfortunately, he and his best friend Nic don't make the team. But Jax has heart and he has guts. He challenges the basketball coach to a game with a team he will have to create. I loved his courage. And how hard he was willing to work to get what he wanted.
Then there's Luke. He also was disappointed when he didn't make the play. I loved how he decided to think outside of the box, with the help of his teacher. And he learns that he is not only a theater guy. He could also be a basketball guy.
Last up is Miley. I loved her chapters. They are so fun to look at because they are full of little doodles. Miley has to find a group to join or she's going to have to home school and she doesn't want to. She also thinks outside of the box in order to find a group to join. I loved how she did that so much!
If you have a middle grade reader, don't miss this one!
I loved the way this book has three main characters that the reader gets to learn about. These three characters are really the heart and soul of this book.
We've got Jax. He is a short guy who wants to play basketball. Unfortunately, he and his best friend Nic don't make the team. But Jax has heart and he has guts. He challenges the basketball coach to a game with a team he will have to create. I loved his courage. And how hard he was willing to work to get what he wanted.
Then there's Luke. He also was disappointed when he didn't make the play. I loved how he decided to think outside of the box, with the help of his teacher. And he learns that he is not only a theater guy. He could also be a basketball guy.
Last up is Miley. I loved her chapters. They are so fun to look at because they are full of little doodles. Miley has to find a group to join or she's going to have to home school and she doesn't want to. She also thinks outside of the box in order to find a group to join. I loved how she did that so much!
If you have a middle grade reader, don't miss this one!
April 1, 2025
Jax loves basketball more than anything. He has big dreams that take a hit when he doesn’t make his middle school team. He challenges the coach, makes his own team, and competes against the school teams after their regular season is over. Of course he needs lots of help. His best friend Nic is there every step of the way.
Luke has played basketball, but it isn’t his passion. He is a theater kid, but he doesn’t get a part in the school play. His teacher Mr. Juma agrees to sponsor him in a theater competition, but Luke doesn’t want to do it alone. He convinces Jax and Nic to enter with him in exchange for him playing on the team.
Miley loves statistics, but she is lonely. Her therapist encourages her to join a club, but nothing seems to be a good fit. She offers her help to Jax and becomes an integral part of the team as a statistician and analyst.
Things I loved:
🏀 underdog story
🏀 mental toughness
🏀 synergy
🏀 all of Miley’s notebook entries
🏀 visual interest for young readers in the forms of doodles, lists, and text conversations in between regular text chapters
🏀 friendship and being there for each other
🏀 Mr. Juma
If your middle grade reader is looking for a book with March Madness and a little bit of High School Musical vibes, this is a slam dunk!
ARC provided by publisher. All opinions are my own.
Luke has played basketball, but it isn’t his passion. He is a theater kid, but he doesn’t get a part in the school play. His teacher Mr. Juma agrees to sponsor him in a theater competition, but Luke doesn’t want to do it alone. He convinces Jax and Nic to enter with him in exchange for him playing on the team.
Miley loves statistics, but she is lonely. Her therapist encourages her to join a club, but nothing seems to be a good fit. She offers her help to Jax and becomes an integral part of the team as a statistician and analyst.
Things I loved:
🏀 underdog story
🏀 mental toughness
🏀 synergy
🏀 all of Miley’s notebook entries
🏀 visual interest for young readers in the forms of doodles, lists, and text conversations in between regular text chapters
🏀 friendship and being there for each other
🏀 Mr. Juma
If your middle grade reader is looking for a book with March Madness and a little bit of High School Musical vibes, this is a slam dunk!
ARC provided by publisher. All opinions are my own.
April 10, 2025
I’m trying to read more middle grade novels since I have a middle grade reader in our family now. So glad I picked this one up!
The Playmakers is about a group of high school kids who become unlikely friends when they band together to play
Favorite aspects:
🏀 Basketball drama
🎭 Acting competition
🏀 Positive representation of therapy
🎭 Accurate teenage humor (see the quote below for a great example!)
🏀 Statistics representation
🎭 Positive friendships
🏀 Forming a club
🎭 Helpful teachers
Favorite quote:
“I hate pantyhose in the winter.” As soon as the words came out, I groaned on the inside. I had that line crossed out on my copy, but I forgot to do it on the other two. Jax laughed so hard he fell out of his seat. “What’s pantyhose?” Nic asked. “Oh, I’m sorry,” I jumped in, hoping to keep this from spiraling out of control. “We’ll cut that line.” “Is it like a hose that shoots panties?” Nic asked. Jax laughed, then pretended to have a T-shirt cannon. “Pew—underwear! Pew-pew! Underwear, underwear!”
Content considerations- One of the characters chats with an AI companion when she is lonely. All the interactions are positive.
Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for the advance copy of this book. A review was not required.
The Playmakers is about a group of high school kids who become unlikely friends when they band together to play
Favorite aspects:
🏀 Basketball drama
🎭 Acting competition
🏀 Positive representation of therapy
🎭 Accurate teenage humor (see the quote below for a great example!)
🏀 Statistics representation
🎭 Positive friendships
🏀 Forming a club
🎭 Helpful teachers
Favorite quote:
“I hate pantyhose in the winter.” As soon as the words came out, I groaned on the inside. I had that line crossed out on my copy, but I forgot to do it on the other two. Jax laughed so hard he fell out of his seat. “What’s pantyhose?” Nic asked. “Oh, I’m sorry,” I jumped in, hoping to keep this from spiraling out of control. “We’ll cut that line.” “Is it like a hose that shoots panties?” Nic asked. Jax laughed, then pretended to have a T-shirt cannon. “Pew—underwear! Pew-pew! Underwear, underwear!”
Content considerations- One of the characters chats with an AI companion when she is lonely. All the interactions are positive.
Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for the advance copy of this book. A review was not required.
April 5, 2025
Language: G (0 swears, 0 “f”); Mature Content: G; Violence: G
Jax (12yo) didn’t make the basketball team, Luke (12yo) didn’t make it into the musical, and if Miley (12yo) doesn’t make friends, then her parents will cut her from public school and homeschool Miley with her eye-rolling cousin. These middle schoolers are not friends, but now they each have reasons to need each other—if everyone is willing to be all in.
At first, it’s difficult for these characters to see where they could fit together, and the beauty is that their diverse team is then not confined to any one teammate’s home court. They bring together everyone’s strengths and support each other’s dreams—even when giving support means getting out of their comfort zones. I also love that Miley’s chapters are told through her notes and stick figure doodles.
Most of the characters are implied White, and Luke’s family comes from Estonians that moved to America. Also, there are a couple of characters that are described as Black or as having “dark brown” skin.
Reviewed for https://kissthebook.blogspot.com/
Jax (12yo) didn’t make the basketball team, Luke (12yo) didn’t make it into the musical, and if Miley (12yo) doesn’t make friends, then her parents will cut her from public school and homeschool Miley with her eye-rolling cousin. These middle schoolers are not friends, but now they each have reasons to need each other—if everyone is willing to be all in.
At first, it’s difficult for these characters to see where they could fit together, and the beauty is that their diverse team is then not confined to any one teammate’s home court. They bring together everyone’s strengths and support each other’s dreams—even when giving support means getting out of their comfort zones. I also love that Miley’s chapters are told through her notes and stick figure doodles.
Most of the characters are implied White, and Luke’s family comes from Estonians that moved to America. Also, there are a couple of characters that are described as Black or as having “dark brown” skin.
Reviewed for https://kissthebook.blogspot.com/
April 8, 2025
“I don’t want you to ever quit trying.”
This is another fantastic book from my favorite middle grade writing duo. The two always show how perfect they are at writing for this audience. They’re always showing kids they can do hard things, and even though they won’t always be the very best or win every time, trying is so important.
There were many moments I enjoyed in this book. Especially when things didn’t go their way, both Jax and Luke took initiative to do what needed to be done. I loved the combo of basketball and acting. It worked. As much as I enjoyed Jax’s and Luke’s characters, Miley was a favorite with her stats and doodles and Nic was great too. He had some funny lines, but he shined at the end.
The book reads very fast and the dual POV moves the story along well. Not only did the kids standout, the adults are strong and good role models - Jax’s mom and Mr June!
I can’t wait for another book from Brown and Morris.
I received a paperback ARC from the publisher and a NetGalley approval. All views are my own.
This is another fantastic book from my favorite middle grade writing duo. The two always show how perfect they are at writing for this audience. They’re always showing kids they can do hard things, and even though they won’t always be the very best or win every time, trying is so important.
There were many moments I enjoyed in this book. Especially when things didn’t go their way, both Jax and Luke took initiative to do what needed to be done. I loved the combo of basketball and acting. It worked. As much as I enjoyed Jax’s and Luke’s characters, Miley was a favorite with her stats and doodles and Nic was great too. He had some funny lines, but he shined at the end.
The book reads very fast and the dual POV moves the story along well. Not only did the kids standout, the adults are strong and good role models - Jax’s mom and Mr June!
I can’t wait for another book from Brown and Morris.
I received a paperback ARC from the publisher and a NetGalley approval. All views are my own.
April 10, 2025
This is an inspiring story that celebrates resilience and persistence. When Jax and Nic don't make the school basketball team, they decide to start their own. Luke doesn't get cast in the school play, but agrees to play on the basketball team in exchange for help with a drama competition. Miley is struggling to make friends, but recognizes that she has a skill when it comes to basketball analytics. Martina and Charlotte want to show that they can play basketball against boys and still dominate. Put them all together and you have a strong team of underdogs.
The characters' experiences reflect the modern challenges our children endure. It's a heartfelt story about the strength we discover through our challenges and what our choices in the midst of adversity lead us to do. Reading this book with my 9-year-old opened the door to meaningful conversations about the power of resilience, persistence, self-respect, and kindness toward others. I am grateful that literature like this exists for my children!
The characters' experiences reflect the modern challenges our children endure. It's a heartfelt story about the strength we discover through our challenges and what our choices in the midst of adversity lead us to do. Reading this book with my 9-year-old opened the door to meaningful conversations about the power of resilience, persistence, self-respect, and kindness toward others. I am grateful that literature like this exists for my children!
December 15, 2024
What a ride! Once I started, I couldn’t stop. The Playmakers is the story of a misfit band of middle school students who come together to prove themselves against the unfairness of the world. Jax, Nic, and Will were cut from the basketball team. Luke was cut from the school play. And Miley just really needs a friend.
Rarely does a book have me full on laughing out loud, but with the Playmakers, there were chapters that had me rolling. And the emotion! I could feel the fire Jax kept talking about, and the fear Luke struggled with, and the self-doubt Miley faced. Every character had a unique voice, and their situation felt so real. It is no wonder these authors have been nominated for so many awards.
So perfectly written for middle grade (and so easy to enjoy as an adult), I give this all the praise, and recommend it to all the readers (and even—especially —the reluctant readers).
I received an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are mine.
Rarely does a book have me full on laughing out loud, but with the Playmakers, there were chapters that had me rolling. And the emotion! I could feel the fire Jax kept talking about, and the fear Luke struggled with, and the self-doubt Miley faced. Every character had a unique voice, and their situation felt so real. It is no wonder these authors have been nominated for so many awards.
So perfectly written for middle grade (and so easy to enjoy as an adult), I give this all the praise, and recommend it to all the readers (and even—especially —the reluctant readers).
I received an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are mine.
May 3, 2025
I thought this was a great story to teach children about going out for what you have a passion for even if others may not believe in you. I liked how these kids were willing to help each other achieve something they were passionate about even when the adults didn’t believe in them. I loved how perspective changed and that the kids and adults learned to not give up even if you are rejected the first time. I also liked that these kids stepped outside their comfort zone and were willing to try especially if it helped someone else. I thought this was a good story for everyone not just young readers.
I received a complimentary book from publishers, publicists, and or authors. A review was not required and all opinions and ideas expressed are my own.
I received a complimentary book from publishers, publicists, and or authors. A review was not required and all opinions and ideas expressed are my own.
June 19, 2025
Jax gets cut from the 7th grade basketball team when hustle doesn't make up for height and rashly tells the coach that he'll just make his own team that can beat the school team. He ropes in his best friend, Nic, and other kids at school. Jax story alternates with that of Luke, a budding thespian who didn't make the school play. As one of the tallest kids in school, he agrees to join the team formed by Jax, but gets Jax to agree to help him in his drama pursuits in exchange. Zany fun ensues in this book that both sports nuts and drama fans will enjoy.
Thanks to Libro.fm for the Educator ALC. It wasn't until I finished that I realized this is the same team that wrote The Wild Journey of Juniper Berry (which I loved!)
Thanks to Libro.fm for the Educator ALC. It wasn't until I finished that I realized this is the same team that wrote The Wild Journey of Juniper Berry (which I loved!)
July 30, 2025
Middle schoolers Jax, Nic, and Luke need a second chance. Jax and Nic were cut from the basketball team and Luke didn’t get a part in the school play. Instead of giving up, they join together and form a new team mixing hoops and theater. They draw other students in as well to their new basketball team and soon many of the outcasts in middle school also have a place where they feel a sense of belonging. This is a book about courage and determination, as well as friendship and hope. The book also highlights how one teacher can motivate students to follow their dreams.
This is a wonderful book that I’m excited for middle schoolers to read this next school year. I look forward to reading many more books by these authors. A truly inspirational book!
This is a wonderful book that I’m excited for middle schoolers to read this next school year. I look forward to reading many more books by these authors. A truly inspirational book!
April 29, 2025
Ultimately I think the book is about team building and friendship. Each character had to go beyond their original characterizations of others in order to reach their goals. The story started with characters making friendship into a transactional relationship, but it quickly transitioned into good relationships and support for each other. Did everything turn out perfectly? No. But that made the story more interesting. I wish the finals of the acting competition had been given more page time. I don't normally mind a changing POV in a book, but this one didn't seem as smooth and it was confusing at times.
August 6, 2025
Jax and his friend Nic work all summer to be ready for basketball tryouts. They make it through the first few rounds of tryouts but are cut after the last round. Jax confronts the coach and negotiates a deal with the coach – if Jax forms his own team, the coach will let them play the JV team and if they win that game, they can play the varsity team. If they win those games, they will earn a spot on the school team next year. Meanwhile, Luke is upset when he is not cast in the school play and decides to enter a drama competition. Miley is struggling to fit in at school and make friends so her parents don’t transfer her to homeschool. All three end up helping each other.
August 26, 2025
What an empowering story! Perfect for basketball obsessors and theater dreamers. The heart in this beautiful story is moving and inspiring.
This Middle Grade story full of grit and determination and will keep you on your toes until the next chapter. Covering many worries youth face and the difference friendships make.
Jax has a fire about him and it gets him into a little trouble, but because of it he defies the odds.
Luke. More comfortable on the stage wanting to make his friends laugh. He also has a fire all his own.
Miley. All she wants is friends and she is brave enough to put herself out there and reap the rewards.
All the hard work and effort of being good at anything is fully covered in this fabulous read. I can’t wait for more youth to pick up this story and be empowered. To try their best and if it doesn’t reap the results they hope for that they learn to reassess goals and a fire is lit inside them to reach them.
This Middle Grade story full of grit and determination and will keep you on your toes until the next chapter. Covering many worries youth face and the difference friendships make.
Jax has a fire about him and it gets him into a little trouble, but because of it he defies the odds.
Luke. More comfortable on the stage wanting to make his friends laugh. He also has a fire all his own.
Miley. All she wants is friends and she is brave enough to put herself out there and reap the rewards.
All the hard work and effort of being good at anything is fully covered in this fabulous read. I can’t wait for more youth to pick up this story and be empowered. To try their best and if it doesn’t reap the results they hope for that they learn to reassess goals and a fire is lit inside them to reach them.
May 30, 2025
This book is such a fun, feel-good read! The Playmakers follows Ben, a sixth grader who loves football and jokes but when a prank goes too far, he has to learn what it really means to be a good teammate and friend.
It’s funny, fast-paced, and full of heart. The characters feel real, and the message about doing the right thing even when it’s tough is spot on for middle schoolers. Great for kids who love sports, humor, and stories about friendship.
It’s funny, fast-paced, and full of heart. The characters feel real, and the message about doing the right thing even when it’s tough is spot on for middle schoolers. Great for kids who love sports, humor, and stories about friendship.
September 27, 2025
We listened to this as a family on a road trip. It seemed a little hard to get into at first but after a few chapters I was invested! I don't know that much about basketball but felt like the descriptions of practices and games were a pretty good balance no matter how much you know about the sport. I loved Miley the the statistics analyst, she was a great character to root for. A good story about friendship and hard work, with a satisfying conclusion.
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