TINY T. REX TRIES SOCCER
By: Jonathan Stutzman
Illustrated by: Jay Fleck
Published: May 19, 2026
Publisher: Chronicle Kids
Fiction
If you have a child excited about the World Cup starting this week, then reading about Tiny’s first soccer experience is a great way to enjoy the games.
Tiny has been watching his siblings play soccer, and now it is finally his turn to play. Even though he has watched them play, he has never played himself. But he has everything he needs: shin protectors, cleats, his jersey, and a headband.
Unfortunately, Tiny doesn’t quite have all the skills needed to play soccer. When he passed the ball, it would whap his best friend, Pointy, in the head. When he tried to kick the ball, instead, he whiffed. Tiny wonders if he will ever be good at soccer.
After a good heart-to-heart with his older siblings, Tiny learns that to be good at something, you have to work hard and practice. At his first game, he has everything he needs, but will Tiny find his special soccer skill and have a great game?
The book includes a page of fun soccer stickers as well as 7 tips for Soccer Success, such as stretching before a game, making sure your soccer cleat laces are tied, and drinking lots of water. Kids can even learn how to draw Tiny playing soccer. Reading this book and watching the games will get your kids excited to play soccer.
Jonathan Stutzman is a bestselling, award-winning author of children’s books. Some of his books include: Don’t Feed the Coos!, Bear is a Bear, The Mouse Who Carried a House on His Back, the Fitz and Cleo graphic novel series, the Llama Destroys the World trilogy, and the Tiny T. Rex series.
His books have been translated into over a dozen languages all over the world and are being developed for television and film. One of Jonathan’s favorite things is cozying up with a good book, his French bulldog Hugo on his lap, and a hot cup of coffee. He lives in Lititz with his wife, Heather.
Jay Fleck is a Shorewood, IL-based illustrator and author. His artwork is bold and imaginative, featuring whimsical animal pairings, images of faraway lands and fantasy playgrounds, or just beautiful compositions of color and shape. He is inspired by old memories from childhood, along with new experiences with his two young children. He lives with his family south of Chicago, which he believes is the best city in the world. (Just ask him about the hot dogs!) He spends his spare time running and reading (but not at the same time).
Check out other books in the Tiny T. Rex series, HERE
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Thanks to the publisher for sending a copy of this book for this review. This review is my honest opinion. If you choose to purchase through the above links, I may receive a small commission without you having to pay a cent more for your purchase.
Posted Under Book Review, Children's books, Jay Fleck, Jonathan Stutzman, Tiny T. Rex series, soccer