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- author Jackie French

Friday, 24 February 2023

Junior Review: Ten Thousand Tries

Ten Thousand Tries by Author Amy Makechnie is a book that deals with tough topics giving the reader a look into a middle schooler soccer kid whose family is dealing with ALS . 

Once you open this book , you cannot put down this emotional read. The main character, Golden Macaroni is a star soccer player, who has everything he wants until his life hits a roadblock. 

His dad is diagnosed with ALS* , but Golden simply can’t believe that there is no cure. He’ll do anything to make sure that his dad will never stop trying to get better. 

On the soccer field, Golden is working extremely hard to become captain of the team, one of his steps in becoming the next Messi. 

Golden is also trying to prevent his best friend, Lucy, from possibly moving because he can’t imagine his life without her. Golden continues to work hard and stay determined, but then his Dad’s health takes a turn for the worse. Golden can’t believe that even though he tried so hard to cure his dad, his illness still continues to take over his health. Golden starts to learn a valuable lesson: there are certain things in life that you simply have no control over.

Author Makechnie's writing style is both raw and heartfelt as she takes readers on a journey with Golden. The author masterfully portrays Golden's emotions, from his initial disbelief to his growing understanding that there are certain things in life that are out of his control. Makechnie's attention to detail and ability to bring the reader into Golden's world makes this book a must-read. 

Overall, Ten Thousand Tries is a beautifully written, poignant and moving novel that will stay with readers long after they have finished reading it.

Title: Ten Thousand Tries
Author: Amy Makechnie
Publisher: Atheneum Books for Young Readers, $14.99
Publication Date: July 13 2021
Format: Hardcover
ISBN: 9781534482302
For ages: 8 -12
Type: Middle Grade Fiction

*Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) - nervous system disease