Children's Literature - Shirley Nelson

In the fourth volume of the “Frankie’s Magic Soccer Ball” series, Frankie and his friends travel to Ancient Egypt for a soccer game. The story begins with Frankie, Charlie, and Louise visiting a history museum with their class. While they are viewing the sarcophagus of a pharaoh, Frankie’s backpack is knocked off his shoulder. He retrieves everything except his soccer ball, which rolls under the rope barrier. When the three friends try to retrieve it, the ball rolls into the sarcophagus and the lid slams shuts. When they raise the lid, the ball is gone, replaced by a swirling opening. Knowing what will happen, they enter and find themselves transported to ancient Egypt for another game in the fantastic fantasy league soccer competition. Accompanied by Max, the talking dog, the friends begin their walk to the pyramids. Medhi, a friendly man, gives them a ride in his cart and tells them about the upcoming soccer game. When they say they have come to play, he laughs at the thought that they could compete against King Tut’s team. The ensuing adventure is full of dark passages, traitors, an Egyptian pharaoh, and an evil mummy. Will Frankie’s Fantasy FC survive to return to the museum? Young readers will eagerly read this short chapter book to learn the answer. Reviewer: Shirley Nelson; Ages 5 to 7.