Better Than a Touchdown

Overview

Jalen Hurts' debut children's book follows a young boy determined to join his school's football team, only to face its cancellation. With friends' encouragement, he discovers that community and creativity can overcome obstacles.

Better Than a Touchdown centers on a young protagonist whose dream of playing football is threatened when his school cuts the team. Drawing from his own experiences, Hurts crafts a narrative where setbacks become opportunities for collaboration. The story emphasizes listening to others, thinking outside the box, and the importance of community support. Nneka Myers' vibrant illustrations complement Hurts’ straightforward, encouraging prose, making the message accessible to young readers. The book’s brevity—just 40 pages—ensures it holds children’s attention while delivering its core message about perseverance and teamwork.

Who It's For

Better Than a Touchdown is ideal for children aged 5-8 who are just beginning to navigate social dynamics and team-based activities. It’s particularly well-suited for parents and educators looking to foster conversations about resilience and community. The book’s focus on a relatable school scenario—facing the loss of a beloved activity—resonates with young readers who may have experienced similar setbacks. Hurts’ connection to the Philadelphia Eagles adds a layer of authenticity that makes the story feel grounded in real-world experiences. The book’s short length and bright illustrations make it perfect for read-aloud sessions in classrooms or bedtime routines, where its message can be reinforced through discussion. It’s also a great tool for teachers to introduce themes of problem-solving and collaboration in a way that feels relevant to children’s daily lives.

What's Inside

The story follows a young boy excited for football tryouts, only to learn the team has been cut. With encouragement from friends, he and his classmates brainstorm ways to revive the team, ultimately discovering that community support and creative thinking can lead to success. The narrative is simple but effective, with Hurts’ signature warmth and Myers’ colorful illustrations bringing the characters to life. Each page features engaging visuals that complement the text, making the story visually appealing to young readers. The book’s dialogue feels natural, with characters offering practical advice that mirrors real-life interactions. The message is clear: setbacks are temporary, and working together can lead to positive outcomes. The story avoids overly complex moralizing, instead letting the characters’ actions and interactions convey its central theme. The inclusion of Hurts’ real-life friend Trey adds a personal touch, making the story feel more authentic and relatable.

Reading Experience

Reading Better Than a Touchdown feels like a warm, encouraging conversation with a trusted friend. The short length ensures it’s easy to hold a child’s attention, while the bright, inviting illustrations keep the story visually engaging. Hurts’ voice comes through clearly in the straightforward, positive language, making the book feel genuine rather than manufactured. The pacing is well-suited for young readers, with each page offering a new insight or moment of connection. The story’s simplicity allows for easy discussion, making it a natural fit for classroom or family read-aloud sessions. Parents and educators will appreciate how the book’s message can be reinforced through follow-up activities, such as brainstorming solutions to real-world problems. The book’s brevity also makes it a great choice for children with shorter attention spans, ensuring it remains engaging without overwhelming them.

Final Verdict

Better Than a Touchdown is a charming, accessible debut that successfully translates Jalen Hurts’ values into a relatable children’s story. While its simplicity may not appeal to older readers, it excels as a tool for fostering early lessons in teamwork and resilience. The book’s strength lies in its authenticity and the way it connects Hurts’ real-world experiences to a child’s perspective. The vibrant illustrations and concise format make it a standout in the children’s sports genre, offering a positive, uplifting message without being preachy. For parents and educators seeking a short, engaging story that promotes community and problem-solving, this book is a solid choice. It’s not a groundbreaking literary work, but it’s a well-executed, heartfelt addition to the children’s bookshelf that will resonate with its intended audience.