Home Ground

A timely and thought-provoking football story packed with facts, from reluctant-reader favourite Alan Gibbons.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 72 pages
Publication date: 15 April 2019
Publisher: Barrington Stoke Ltd

Sam's team is struggling to stay in the league, and team captain Jordan's negative attitude is not helping matters. As Sam watches Hasan play for the refugee team, he recognizes his talent and invites him to join the practice. Hasan and his friend Faisal quickly become valuable assets to the team, but Jordan is not willing to accept them easily. Can Sam rally the boys and lead them to victory?

Another winning combination of fact and fiction from the acclaimed author of "The Invisibles" and "The Ghosts of Auschwitz," Alan Gibbons. This timely and thought-provoking football story is packed with exciting facts that will captivate reluctant readers.

Sam's team is facing a tough season, and their chances of staying in the league are dwindling. Team captain Jordan's negative attitude is not doing anything to improve the situation, and the team is struggling to find its rhythm.

One day, Sam notices Hasan playing for the refugee team. He is impressed by his skills and decides to invite him to join the practice. Hasan and his friend Faisal quickly integrate into the team, and their presence brings a fresh energy and enthusiasm to the squad.

At first, Jordan is hesitant to accept the new teammates. He believes that they are not good enough to play for the team and that they will only bring them down. However, as he spends more time with them, he realizes that they have a lot of talent and potential.

Despite Jordan's resistance, Sam is determined to make the most of the new additions to the team. He works hard to help them improve their skills and encourages them to work together as a unit. He also tries to build bridges between Hasan and Faisal and Jordan, hoping to create a harmonious and productive team environment.

As the season progresses, Sam's team starts to perform better. They win games that they had previously lost, and their confidence is growing. Hasan and Faisal continue to shine on the field, and Jordan begins to appreciate their contributions.

However, Jordan's attitude towards the new teammates remains stubborn. He continues to belittle them and criticize their performance, even when they are playing well. This creates tension within the team, and it becomes difficult for Sam to maintain his leadership role.

One day, during a crucial game against a rival team, Jordan's behavior reaches a boiling point. He makes a reckless tackle that results in a red card, and the team is forced to play with ten men for the rest of the game. Despite their best efforts, the team loses the game, and Jordan's actions have consequences.

Sam confronts Jordan after the game, expressing his disappointment and frustration with his behavior. Jordan realizes that he has been acting selfishly and that his actions have hurt the team. He apologizes to Sam and the new teammates, and he promises to change his ways.

From that day on, Jordan becomes a different player. He starts to support his teammates, and he encourages them to play their best. He recognizes the value of teamwork and the importance of respecting each other.

The team's performance improves dramatically, and they end the season on a high note. They secure a spot in the playoffs, and they have a chance to make it to the championship game.

In the end, Sam's team wins the championship game, and they are celebrated as heroes in their community. Jordan plays a crucial role in their victory, and he is hailed as a hero for his transformation.

This story is a powerful reminder of the importance of teamwork, respect, and perseverance. It shows that even when things seem hopeless, there is always a chance for change and improvement. It also highlights the impact that one person can have on a team, and how a positive attitude and a willingness to work together can lead to success.

Alan Gibbons is a master storyteller, and his books have touched the hearts of millions of readers around the world. "The Invisibles" and "The Ghosts of Auschwitz" are two of his most acclaimed works, and they have been praised for their powerful storytelling and emotional impact.

"The Refugee Team" is another winning combination of fact and fiction from Gibbons. It is a timely and thought-provoking story that will captivate reluctant readers and football fans alike. It is a testament to the power of sports to bring people together and to inspire change.

In conclusion, "The Refugee Team" is a must-read for anyone who loves football, or for anyone who is interested in learning more about the world around them. It is a powerful story that will leave a lasting impression on your heart and mind.

Weight: 132g
Dimension: 130 x 197 x 6 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781781128565