THE VIRGINIAN-PILOT
Copyright (c) 1994, Landmark Communications, Inc.
DATE: Tuesday, October 18, 1994 TAG: 9410180074
SECTION: DAILY BREAK PAGE: E4 EDITION: FINAL
TYPE: BOOK REVIEW
SOURCE: BY YOLANDA ROBINSON COLES, SPECIAL TO THE DAILY BREAK
LENGTH: Medium: 55 lines
SHAUN GAYLE, a veteran All-Pro safety for the Chicago Bears, does a lot to dispel the myth of the big, dumb jock in his latest book for children ages 5 to 9, ``The Little Quarterback'' (Victor Books, $4.99; with cassette tape, $7.99).
An undersized quarterback is ignored by his opponents and disrespected by his own teammates. As the game progresses, he is sacked several times. But each time he gets up, determined to try again. Finally, the ``little quarterback'' makes a touchdown and becomes a hero.
Gayle emphasizes self-esteem and confidence in his ``Sports Tales'' series, of which ``The Little Quarterback'' is the fourth book.
Here, he teaches children that people's abilities cannot be judged just by looking at them. Throughout the book, which is written in poetic verse, the theme of ``if at first you don't succeed, try, try again'' is sounded. The quarterback looks inside himself for support but also graciously accepts the support that his team gives.
Patrick Owsley's colorful illustrations capture the energy and inspiration of this modern-day David and Goliath story. The quarterback's desire to win is clearly reflected in his face.
Together, author and illustrator show that one's heart must be strong to face an opponent of greater size and physical strength. After the game is over, the little quarterback says, ``No one can really say what's possible for you. Only God knows for sure what great things you can do.''
Gayle, who holds a degree in education from Ohio State University, regularly promotes values-based learning in the programs he sponsors and supports for children in Chicago.
The concepts for his book series, which also includes ``Jill and the Hill,'' ``Jonathan McBoo'' and ``Home Run Pete,'' are based on positive religious teachings that can be found in any religion in any ethnic group.
The series seeks to instill values while also telling a fun story. MEMO: Yolanda Robinson Coles is a free-lance children's book critic in Norfolk
and Durham, N.C. ILLUSTRATION: Photos
Shaun Gayle has written a series of children's books.
``The Little Quarterback'' by All-Pro football player Shaun Gayle of
the Chicago Bears teaches children 5 to 9 years old to perservere,
no matter how big the size of an opponent or problem.
by CNB