Catching Jordan

Kenneally, Miranda. Catching Jordan. Book 1 of the Hundred Oaks series. 2011. 252p. ISBN 9781402262289. Available as an ebook from Overdrive.

As a senior in high school, everyone watching her would think Jordan has everything going for her. Her father is the starting quarterback for the Tennessee Titans. Her brother Mike is now in college, playing for his favorite team. And over 6 feet tall, Jordan also has the best throw on her football team. She's the captain and quarterback for Hundred Oaks' high school team, and a top prospect for any team, if only she weren't a girl.

Jordan really wants to join the University of Alabama's football program, but she keeps getting hints from the athletic director, the coach, and some of the players that she will never see field time if she goes to Alabama. Her father is no help. He never comes to her games, and has not seen her play. She's never kissed a boy, because who would want to date a girl that taller than they are? Thankfully, Jordan has plenty of friends on the football team, including Sam Henry and J.J. This season is shaping up to be a great one, and Jordan is ready to lead her team all the way to the state championship.

Except the arrival of Tyler changes everything. A new senior from Texas and a quarterback, Ty has an arm that rivals Jordan, and the coach agrees to give him play time. How can Jordan shine if she's not playing? Compounding these difficulties, Jordan is falling hard for Ty, and he's falling for her too. With mixed emotions and a roller coaster of a ride, Jordan will need to play the best football, and sort out her own desires and determine what is really important to her before the season is over!

Fans of sports and football stories who enjoy reading about Jordan's exploits and struggles should take a look at Play the Game, a real-life story of a girl who joined the 7th grade football team at her school.