There is not a better work hard, do your best book for kids. When Smitty's obsession with football becomes more important than his schoolwork, his mom decides football has to go. Smitty is devastated and realizes - with help from his teacher - that hard work and perseverance are important not only on the playing field but also in the classroom and with everything else in life.

Since he was a very little boy, Smitty's dream has been to play football, but his mom says school comes first. When his teacher says his excitement for the game is interfering with his work, he's got a big problem. Can Smitty make both his mom and his coach proud? Wade Smith's story, based on his own experience, shows young students and athletes how important it is to stay focused and determined at school so they can achieve their dreams in life and on the field. A charming and thoroughly entertaining read for children ages 6 to 12, Smitty Hits the Play Books is an especially recommended addition to family, elementary school, and community library collections.