The Field

I recently bought this book about an exciting game of soccer (futbol) on an island in the Caribbean for my 5 year old niece. The minimal text (with several Creole words and phrases whose meaning is made clear) reflects the spontaneity of the game and the bold illustrations burst with energy. While I haven’t played much soccer, this book evoked great childhood memories of the sheer joy of playing other games outdoors with cousins and friends and the reluctance we had to come indoors when our mothers called. My niece loves The Field and I love reading it to her. The delightful detail in the illustrations (cows and goats in the playing field, mud soaked clothes, homes up on stilts) give us so much to talk about. I’ve frequently seen my niece pick up the book and read it on her own. For me, that’s the ultimate test of a good book for kids.

This book is so simple yet provides a powerful experience that really speaks to me as a Haitian-American. I used to go to Haiti every summer and although I didn’t play soccer in the fields, it brought me back to the days when I was a kid playing all day and getting caught in the rain. The rain never stopped us from continuing to play. And then going home at the end of the day to a hot bath and a hot meal. This book can relate to anyone’s childhood. It evokes that feeling of innocence; the feeling of excitement and suspense. Great book. I literally am going to buy copies for my family and friends. Btw- it’s one of my sons favorite books. He loves when I shout, “Goal!!!!”

A very well-illustrated, fun story for the little ones. Football is the most universally relatable sport (in my opinion) and this book brings some of that diversity in a short and sweet story to the kids. Baptise and Jacqueline have done a very good job in making this an accessible book. The use of Creole words, complete with a glossary of such words, is a nice touch as well. I recently gave this book as a gift and the parents instantly loved it. I am sure their child will love it just as much if not more :)

I loved this book because it reminded me of being a kid, playing outside in my neighborhood, regardless of the weather, until our mom's made us come in at dusk. So much fun!

Loved the book! After hearing it read in a high school classroom, I had to purchase it for my ten year old soccer playing daughter. She enjoyed the story as well as the illustrations! So awesome that the author lives in Green Bay, too!

The Field is a wonderful addition to our library. The story is simple enough for my young toddler, and I enjoy reading the Creole to her. The pictures are lovely and dynamic. Although she's too young for soccer just yet, I've bought several copies for all the young soccer fans in my life!

Wonderfully preserved used book and the story is inspiring, with lovely illustrations.

Brilliant use of English and Creole over the universal game of soccer (futbol)! My soccer loving kids who wish they could play in the rain loved learning about the game in another culture. We scream GOAL! together. Jacqueline Alcantara's illustrations are vibrant and moving as well.