How to Read the Comeback Kids Series
Because every book in the Comeback Kids series is a standalone story featuring a different protagonist and sport, there is no strict chronological reading order. Readers can safely dive into whichever book features their favorite sport or read them in the order they were originally published.
Comeback Kids Books in Publication Order
If you prefer to read the books in the order they were released, follow this list:
- Hot Hand (2007) – Features basketball.
- Two-Minute Drill (2007) – Features football.
- Safe at Home (2008) – Features baseball.
- Long Shot (2008) – Features basketball.
- Shoot-Out (2010) – Features soccer.
Choosing Your Starting Lineup: A Sport-by-Sport Guide
If you want to choose your starting book based on the sport or plot, here is what each novel offers:
- Basketball: Start with Hot Hand (where Billy Raynor navigates his parents' divorce while aiming for a championship) or Long Shot (following Pedro Morales as he balances sports and a student council campaign).
- Football: Read Two-Minute Drill, which details Scott Parry, a brainy student struggling to fit in on the football team, and his friendship with the star quarterback.
- Baseball: Pick up Safe at Home, focusing on Nick Crandall, a foster kid trying to find his footing as a catcher.
- Soccer: Try Shoot-Out, which features Jake Forrester adapting to a new soccer team and learning the value of cooperation.
What to Read Next
If you enjoy Mike Lupica's writing style, you can check out his other sports-themed series for middle-grade readers:
- Danny Walker Series: Follows young basketball players, starting with Travel Team and its sequel Summer Ball.
- Game Changers Series: Focuses on team play and athletic rivalries.
- Home Team Series: Explores friendship and sports beginning with The Only Game.