That s what Flora Dupre promised her mom before she died of cancer. Flora and her mom had created a place called Soccerland, an escape world in which they d ignore the beeping cancer machines and just talk soccer. And now Flora s dream of playing for the U.S.A. just might be coming true. Flora s received the invitation of a lifetime: the chance to try out for the Under-15 U.S. Girls Soccer Team at the International Sports Academy. But at the academy, the level of talent is like nothing Flora s ever seen before. She struggles to hold her own as she grapples with new positions, injuries, the world s most frustrating coach, and contempt from other players who would love to see her fail. But Flora is a big, strong Dupre girl and she s not going to go down easy. Superbly written. Doug McIntyre, ESPN The Magazine Choat s examination of the dedication, effort, and sacrifice needed to become a national-level player is riveting and inspiring. Readers will be rooting for Flora as she struggles to achieve her goals. Kirkus Reviews A dazzling and expert portrait of the life of the young elite athlete. S. L. Price, Sports Illustrated"