Editorial Review

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Reader Views – 5-Star Review
Reviewed by Sheri Hoyte (March 2025)

“Maverick and the Big Game” is the fifth book in The Adventures of Maverick series by Gina and Abdul Usufzy.

As with all the books in the series, Maverick and the Big Game follows Maverick as he navigates another big moment on the ice. It’s the day of the big championship, and Maverick knows how important this game is. He has a funny feeling in his stomach, but he knows he has trained hard and is ready to give it his all.

This story captures the anticipation, the highs and lows, and the effort it takes to stay calm and give your best when it matters most. It stays true to real experiences, highlighting moments like a pre-game pep talk or a missed shot. The message is clear. It is about effort, showing up, and staying with it no matter how things turn out. Maverick is a strong character and a positive role model who works hard and cares about his team.

Maverick and the Big Game is the perfect book for kids ages 4 to 8 and will be especially enjoyed by those just starting out in team sports. It’s also an exciting read-aloud story that keeps kids engaged with a good balance of anticipation and positive reinforcement. Parents and coaches will appreciate the focus on effort and sportsmanship. I like that the messages come through without it turning into a lesson.

The illustrations by Jason Velazquez really bring the game to life. There is movement on every page. The bold colors and clean lines make the action easy to follow. The expressions on Maverick and his teammates add just the right amount of emotion. I also love the subtle diversity throughout the book. It is thoughtful and helps the team feel like it could be from any community.

The Usufzys have created something unique in the world of children’s books by focusing on youth hockey. There are a handful of picture books about hockey, but it is definitely a niche. Sports like soccer, baseball, and basketball tend to dominate the children’s book market, making The Adventures of Maverick series something really special. At the same time, kids do not need to know anything about hockey to enjoy this story. Every child can relate to Maverick’s experience. Whether they have played a sport, stood on a stage, or faced a big challenge, they will find something familiar here. The rink may be the setting, but the emotions are something every child can understand.