Always a Catch

Adult nonfiction author Richmond, delving into YA territory, gives readers a promising setup: unambitious and uninspired Jack Lefferts has just been accepted into esteemed Oakhurst Hall prep school for 11th grade, where he's expected to perfect his piano playing and secure his right to his father's fortune. But Jack's arrival at the school triggers a deep-seated need to see what he's really capable of%E2%80%94a need that leads him to enter the high-pressure world of varsity football, experiment with his music, and develop a relationship with Caroline, a fellow musician. The resulting story, like any good football game, has its emotional highs and lows as well as a great deal of unforeseen moments. Jack's narration adds believable and insightful commentary on the pressures of being a teenage guy. Richmond skillfully delivers scene after scene of gridiron grit while maintaining Jack's wit and charm, and pulling off a winning story, on and off the field. Readers can only hope that this isn't Richmond's last young adult novel. Ages 12%E2%80%93up. (Sept.)