The Right Call is a middle grade novel about the growing pressures in youth sports, from the expectations we place on kids to the sometimes outrageous behavior of parents. Where sports used to be fun, oftentimes they are now a path to a desired future -- and this novel explores these themes through the lens of one boy who just wants to play ball. Recommended for middle school libraries.

Tommy Greenwald brings readers back to Walthorne with a story that explores the pressures of youth sports. Through transcripts, inner voice, text messages, and news articles, we meet Cal Klondike, a star pitcher for Walthorne Baseball Academy. He is only 15 years old and scouts are already showing up at his games. With all of his success comes incredible pressure. Tension between the adults in Cal’s life leads to a confrontation following a game, and Cal faces a difficult decision. Fans of Game Changer will enjoy a similar format and pace as well as a closer look at some of the pressures faced when trying to make it to college and professional level sports. For student athletes, this book is relatable and authentic. While it examines a negative aspect of competitive sports, it also demonstrates the importance of seeking support for mental health. A recommended addition to classroom and public libraries. Thank you to Abrams Books for providing this book via NetGalley in return for an honest review.

I enjoyed how this book was told through various means of transcripts, news articles, text messages. It was something different than a traditional novel. This book is about overcoming adversity, owning up to one's mistakes, learning and asking for forgiveness after bad choices, and dealing with the pressure that comes with playing sports at a competitive level. The characters in the book were easy to relate too.

I thought this was a great book for teens to think about sports, and pressure, and family, and history. Some good life lessons in here as star pitcher Cal struggles with some bad choices, both his and of those around him. The format is articles, texts, emails, and interview transcripts, so it's a great way for kids to follow the narrative thru evidence/sources rather than direct prose. The characters are relatable to middle-schoolers and teens. A good read for thinking about actions and consequences. Thanks to NetGalley for the eARC!