Tonight, July 1, the United States Mens Soccer will play Bosnia-Herzegovina at 7 pm in the knock-out round.

Kids today know so much about soccer because the sport has spread across the US in the last 30-40 years. Soccer, or futbol, is a popular sport for even elementary students.

That's why my forthcoming book, FROWNS: Nouns, a Few Adjectives, illustrated by the amazing John Joven, has a soccer reference that we expect kids will understand easily. The book launches on August 11 (but shh!, you can order now, exclusively on the Mims House website.)

HOPING FOR A FRIEND

When Jo starts a new school, she just hopes for a friend!

(The story is told all in nouns, and a few adjectives, making it a grammar story, too. Sneaky, huh? NO VERBS allowed!)

When she opens the door into the classroom, there are 19 frowns. Only two smiles. Of course--the teacher has to smile at her. But, look. There's one other smile!

Bo and Jo slowly get to know each other through their classwork. At recess, they go to the soccer field. Oh, no! VERBS! How did they get in the book? Red Card! Kick them out!

All about FROWNS: Nouns a Few Adjectives

"...accessible...relatable...helpful for emergent readers...entertaining." Kirkus Reviews

Written as a decodable book, FROWNS is for the 5-8 year old learning to read. They'll learn about friendship, but also strengthen their reading skills. AND, we added in a grammar lesson. The story is told in nouns, with a few adjectives, the entire 114 words--OOPS! 112 words (2 are kicked out because they are verbs!).

Friendship. Decodable. Grammar. What more could you want? Oh, you want a book about Verbs and Adverbs. That's coming in February, 2027! Bo and Jo are back with a spirited vote about what kind of animal will become their class pet. 

Learn More about FROWNS

Go USMNT!

NO red cards, please!