The Greatest Game Ever Played - Softcover

Phil Bildner (www.philbildner.com) is a public school teacher, as well as the author of several picture books. Follow him on Twitter @PhilBildner.

Zachary Pullen's artwork (www.zacharypullen.com) has been featured in The New York Times Book Review, Sports Illustrated, and many other publications. He is also the illustrator of The Toughest Cowboy, and has several more picture books in the works.

Grade 1-5–This picture book recounts the exciting 1958 NFL championship game as viewed by a young fan and his father. It's been a tough year. Their beloved New York Giants baseball team moved to San Francisco. Pop lost his job; though he's found another, he's working long hours, and Sam misses the time they used to spend together. Even Sam has lost his job selling newspapers, but, as a parting bonus, his boss gives him tickets to the big game between the New York Giants and the Baltimore Colts. Pop declares that he's not interested in football, but as they watch the action on the field, the two are drawn into the thrilling contest. Even as they root for the home team, they can't help admiring the gritty courage of the rival quarterback, Johnny Unitas, who leads the Colts' come-from-behind victory. Pullen's oil paintings capture the tumultuous action and the fans' enthusiastic response. The comically exaggerated facial expressions balance the story's nostalgic mood. An author's note adds facts and helps sort out the game's significance. This is an engaging tale, well told, and a warm portrayal of the bond between sports-loving fathers and sons.–Marilyn Taniguchi, Beverly Hills Public Library, CA
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