The Field

Now in paperback! Soccer fan or not, the call of The Field is irresistible.

Vini! Come! The field calls! cries a girl as she and her younger brother rouse their community-family, friends, and the local fruit vendor-for a pick-up soccer (futbol) game. Boys and girls, young and old, players and spectators come running-bringing balls, shoes, goals, and a love of the sport.

Friends versus friends teams are formed, the field is cleared of cows, and the game begins! But will a tropical rainstorm threaten their plans?

The world’s most popular and inclusive sport has?found its spirited and authentic voice in Baptiste Paul’s debut picture book- highlighting the joys of the game along with its universal themes: teamwork, leadership, diversity, and acceptance. Creole words (as spoken in Saint Lucia, the author’s birthplace island in the Caribbean) add spice to the story and are a strong reminder of the sport’s world fame. Bright and brilliant illustrations by debut children’s book illustrator Jacqueline Alcantara- winner of the We Need Diverse Books Illustration Mentorship award- capture the grit and glory of the game and the beauty of the island setting that inspired this particular field.