Tournament of Champions - Paperback

by Phil Bildner (Author), Tim Probert (Illustrator)

Fifth grade is a game changer for two best friends in this illustrated middle grade novel--the third book in the funny and engaging Rip and Red series.

It's spring of their fifth-grade year and Rip and Red have a thrilling opportunity to participate in a weekend basketball tournament with a few other members of the Clifton United team. While the tournament is only a short bus ride away, the boys will travel outside their comfort zones. Ultra-competitive Rip must play on a team with kids he doesn't like. But he faces an even bigger hurdle when someone from his past returns--someone who could derail the entire weekend. As for Red, who has autism, he's never traveled anywhere without his mother. Will he go on the trip? Fortunately for both best friends, the team has an unlikely and inspiring new addition who helps everyone discover the true meaning of the word champion.

With an energetic and authentic story from author Phil Bildner and dynamic black-and-white illustrations from Tim Probert, Tournament of Champions is a fresh, fun book about school, sports, and friendship. Featuring a diverse cast of characters and an array of kid-friendly discussable topics, this series is perfect for reluctant readers and in-class or independent reading.

Don't miss any of Rip and Red's adventures for elementary and middle school readers ages 8-12:
● A Whole New Ballgame
● Rookie of the Year
● Tournament of Champions
● Most Valuable Players

Author Biography

Phil Bildner is a former New York City public school teacher who lives in Newburgh, New York. The author of many books, including Marvelous Cornelius: Hurricane Katrina and the Spirit of New Orleans and The Soccer Fence: A Story of Friendship, Hope, and Apartheid in South Africa, Phil is a frequent speaker at conferences and travels to over sixty schools a year.

Tim Probert has illustrated children's books, including Pickle by Kim Baker, as well as magazines and advertisements. He is also a director at the animation studio Aardman Nathan Love. He lives in New York City.