Bibliography: Deuker, Carl. (2010). Payback Time. New York: Houghton Mifflin Books for Children. ISBN: 978-0547279817
Plot Summary: Aspiring journalist and high school senior Mitch True almost quits the school paper when Alyssa is chosen as editor over him and she assigns him to the sports beat. But sports photographer Kim is beautiful and bright and interesting and they soon discover a potential football scandal that might make both their careers before they even finish high school–if it doesn’t get them killed first.
Critical Analysis: For me, the strongest parts of this book are in the main character, Mitch and the sports scenes. Mitch is an every man kind of guy, with a wry sense of humor and a unique perspective on the world. I really like that Deuker has portrayed him as struggling with his weight but it is not the focus of Mitch’s character or the novel. I have to say it was genius on Deuker’s part to make Mitch a sports reporter. That gives the reader a viewpoint of taking in all the action, as well as background, behind the scenes and sideline perspectives. Some of the football games are so well described, you feel like you are there watching, cheering, sitting on the edge of your seat.
However, while some of that same immediacy and suspense are present in the mystery, I find parts of it to be extremely far fetched. I don’t want to spoil the book, so I won’t go into details, but the set up and especially Mitch and Kim’s involvement seem far fetched and unrealistic at times. It probably doesn’t matter much to your average teen boy who will love the football scenes and the idea that a teen could uncover a thrilling mystery.
Review Excerpts: ”…[A] compelling combination of sports novel and mystery….Deuker provides a strong football story with nail-biting action and intrigue and a strong, appealing protagonist.”–VOYA
“The game action alone is riveting even for readers who don’t know a naked bootleg from a hook-and-ladder play, but Deuker enriches the tale with several well-tuned subplots and a memorable narrator/protagonist who turns a corner on his own self-image while weathering brutal tests of his courage and determination. Definitely one for the top shelf.”–Booklist
“This is, at heart, a football story with a somewhat predictable mystery thrown in for good measure. Well-drawn characters, convincing teen dynamics, and play-by-play game coverage should hook male readers and/or football fans.”–Children’s Literature
“Deuker has crafted another entertaining and readable football story. The game descriptions are well done and will appeal to players and fans. Many teens who dreamed of being a star as children but don’t make the team in high school will identify with Mitch..”–School Library Journal
“Told in the first person, the story is initially funny, but the humor is soon eclipsed by the suspenseful plot and the copious play-by-play football action. These elements work together to create a rousing climax, which is then followed by a softer and more reflective denouement. Nicely played..”–Kirkus Reviews
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