Booked by Kwame Alexander*

Twelve year old Nick Hall loves soccer, his mom's food and April (a girl in his etiquette class).  He hates reading, especially his dad's dictionary.  Then, abruptly he hates his life when his parents separate, bullies get the best of him and he loses the chance to play in a major soccer tournament.
Through free verse and poetry, readers sympathize with Nick and applaud as he attempts to make some positive changes in his attitude and outlook.
Perfect for reluctant readers (especially boys).
Text set: The Crossover, Out of the Dust by Karen Hesse,  All the Broken Pieces by Ann E. Burg
Points to discuss/warnings: some swearing and crass language; Nick has a major crush on April (nothing inappropriate occurs); separation/divorce
I love the unique words,  the footnote definitions and the wordplay.
*Highly recommend for junior/high school.  The library has this book categorized as "young adult".