The Academy II: The Journey Continues (The Academy Series)

"The Academy II: The Journey Continues" by T.Z. Layton is an absolute page-turner and a worthy sequel to the first book. My son, who is a soccer enthusiast, was captivated by the journey of Leo K. Doyle, a small-town kid from Ohio, as he navigates the challenges of a Premier League youth squad. Despite being on the underperforming U14 Lewisham Knights, Leo's unwavering determination and passion for soccer shine through. This book beautifully portrays Leo's struggles, not just on the field but also in his personal life - balancing schoolwork, making new friends in a foreign country, and dealing with a tough coach. The way Leo juggles these challenges while trying to save his team and pursue his dream of becoming a professional player is inspiring. What makes this sequel stand out is its ability to maintain suspense and excitement while exploring deeper themes like teamwork, perseverance, and the importance of believing in oneself. It’s a must-read for young sports fans, and I found it to be a fantastic way to engage with my son about following dreams and overcoming obstacles. Highly recommended for its engaging narrative and meaningful lessons.

Love getting to continue to follow along Leo’s journey! My son who isn’t a big fan of reading loves reading this series and has declared this his favorite series and doesn’t want it to end =)

I have been reading the Academy series with my 8-year old son, and we have both loved following Leo's story. The characters were fun to get to know, the competition was entertaining, and the growth Leo experiences along the way prompted numerous conversations with my son. We also personally connected with Leo's emotions related to the anniversary of the death of his mother to cancer. I was diagnosed with breast cancer a couple years ago and just finished my cancer treatments less than a year ago, so my son could connect to Leo and his loss--and reading this part of the story was an unexpected but cathartic experience for us. We cried together and grieved for Leo, but we also were keenly reminded how blessed we are that I am a survivor. We can't wait to start the next book in the series.

This book shows that one player who is down and out turned his whole team and season over against all odds!

Loved the book! Kids who don't normally like to read love this book

My 10 year old enjoys reading but absolutely loves to play soccer. I saw this series at a local bookstore and bought it for him to try. He has read this series faster than any books I’ve ever seen him read. He read books III and IV within a few days. I love seeing him completely absorbed in a book and this is the first time it’s happened. Great series for your soccer loving kids!!!

I’m good at soccer too. Leo and I have the same passion for soccer. But I’m a striker and I think I’ll always be one! Franks

Great story ! I feel asleep !

My 11 year old son really loves these books. If your child loves football, then he will love these books. They are well written and very engaging.

My 10 year old and I have now read the first and second books of this series and absolutely LOVE them! Very well written with an excellent story line! I enjoy reading a chapter or two with my child, each day. Every chapter leaves you wanting to know what happens next! If you have a young soccer or sport lover, I highly recommend this book and series! Hands down our current favourite!

My 10-year-old son read this and loves it after reading the first edition. Great for a 10-year-old that's into his soccer

This product is not original. The paper is white while the original books have yellow paper. The text looks like a photocopy.

Excellent read! My 3 kids (7y - 13y) and I really enjoyed reading series 1-3 and are so much looking forward to the release of book no. 4. We just can't stop reading about Leo's exciting football adventures.