Football Mad: Offside! (Book 2 in the Football Mad series)

Offside! continues the action-packed, emotionally rich adventures of the Dale Juniors, a youth football team aiming to win the local school cup again. In this second installment, Jack is unexpectedly dropped from the team to make room for new boy Lee Parker—who soon draws public attention by earning a red card for a rough challenge. While Lee’s talent is undeniable, his aggressive playing style raises concerns.

The story follows Jack’s emotional journey as he navigates feelings of disappointment and betrayal. His teammates question their loyalty, and Jack grapples with whether to support Lee or stand up for fair play. Meanwhile, team dynamics are tested as the boys learn about responsibility, respect, and working through conflict both on and off the pitch.

Paul Stewart weaves authentic school and sporting environments with sensitive depictions of friendship, integrity, and resilience. The pacing is dynamic, building toward a tense cup final that tests character more than skill. Michael Broad’s expressive illustrations enhance accessibility, particularly for reluctant readers and those with dyslexia.

Target Age: Lower Primary (Grades 2–4 / ages 7–9)—recommended reading for ages 9+ with reading confidence at age 8
LGBT Content: No LGBT content present