Teammates

by Tiki Barber, Ronde Barber, Barry Root (Illustrator)

Football stars and identical twins Tiki and Ronde Barber play on different teams in the NFL, but they share the spotlight (and story credits) in this exciting follow-up to Game Day and By My Brother's Side. Based on the twins' youthful experiences, Teammates rolls out a tale about an embarrassing fumble, some secret practice sessions, and a big game against an archrival.

Genres: Sports, Picture Books, Childrens, African American

32 pages, Hardcover

First published August 29, 2006

About the author

Tiki Barber is a record-holding retired running back for the New York Giants. Mr. Barber is currently a correspondent for NBC's Today show and an analyst for NBC's Football Night in America.

Reviews

[Karissa Fankhauser · Rating 3 out of 5]

Teammates by Tiki Barber is categorized as non-fiction because it is the true story of pro-football players Tiki and Ronde Barber. As twin brothers growing up, both Tiki and Ronde shared a love of football. When Tiki began falling behind in the game, Ronde was hesitant to stand up for his brother to the rest of the team. Then the two teamed up and began having secret practices of their own before school every day, and soon enough, Tiki became the great ball handler he always wanted to be. This story will resonate with young boys who are inspired by football players and like to play the game themselves. The main lesson to be learned from this book is to not give up, and that practice isn't always perfect if you are practicing the wrong way. Also, there is mention of homework and reading being most important, even before football, which is important for young readers to hear. Although inspirational, I probably would only use it in a classroom library for recreational reading, rather than tying it to the curriculum.

[Mary Ann · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Barber twins, both star football players, write about their childhood in this picture book that emphasizes perseverance and teamwork. Tiki is having trouble dropping the ball in scrimmages, and his coach tells him that you not only have to practice, you have to practice the right way. Coach shows him how to hold the ball so his opponents can’t knock it loose, and Tiki and his brother start practicing early every morning. Root’s artwork is inspiring, with lush, bold colors. Kids will appreciate the way the brothers support each other and practice together, helping each other get better and having fun along the way.

[Kimberly · Rating 2 out of 5]

I thought this one was kind of boring. Now, I am not the target audience, and while I very much enjoy watching football, I'm not super familiar with the Barber brothers...and I don't really care all that much about how Tiki learned to carry a football. It's a nice story about perseverance, but it's not for me.

[Alyse Liebovich · Rating 2 out of 5]

This book didn't really grab my attention, but I also don't really care about football that much. I do think it's neat that the authors are real-life football stars and friends, which I didn't realize until I tried searching for this picture book on Goodreads.

[Ashlee Gibson]

Great book with a great story line and illustrations. Tiki Barber does a great job of telling a story from his childhood about practice and determination.

[Suzie · Rating 4 out of 5]

We enjoyed “By My Brother’s Side” more. This book’s plot was a little bit weak.

[Luke Anderson · Rating 2 out of 5]

Accelerated Reader BL: 3.1
Lexile: 630L

I think the story is the strength of this book, not the artwork. Since it is a true story told by two notable football players, it is interesting to get a peek into their child hood. I don't think the story is very captivating (especially for a child) and the illustrations aren't as fun as they could be.

Traits: Ideas, Voice

[Jackie · Rating 3 out of 5]

This a story about a set of twin brothers who are best friends and teammates. They paly on the same football team. One brother helps his brother become a better player. I found this book perpetuates the stereotype of African American boys who grow up and become professional football players. While there is noting wrong with that. I want my African American boys to understand that there many successful African American writers, speakers, business men, teachers...

[Shellie · Rating 3 out of 5]

J Hey ya gotta love Tiki, eye candy and great books too. Read all of them!

[Finny]

Mommy says: Finny would not even let me read this book aloud to him.