The Philly Phenoms by Nate Oxman is a well-written kids book that is great for kids who enjoy golf. The book has a bit of a slow start but picks up the pace a bit starting from chapter 6. I personally found chapter 6 is what pulled me into the book as I connected with the characters over their September 11, 2001 experience.  Reading about Lee’s fear and inability to get one of his parents reminded me of my own experience trying to get to my daughter when she was in school.  The author did an amazing job taking such an awful day and showing it through the eyes of a scared and confused child. Lee’s question of: “Why would people do something like this” really stuck with me as it was the same thought I myself had on that day.  I liked the fact that later in the book that author uses that date again for a special charity match. It brought that emotional connection with Lee back and reminded me of his emotions and thoughts. I have to say the author did a great job of being respectful of that date while also incorporating it into the story.

The one problem I had with the book was the lack of transition between some of the chapters. For instance, chapter 6 was about 9/11, but then chapter 7 just starts with: “After I finished my lunch one day, I went up to my room to practice my putting."  I personally found the switch rather jarring at times as there was nothing to tell me how long had passed since then. I feel that the chapters would benefit from including either the date or subtitle stating something like three months later. 

The main character, Lee, is very likeable and realistic in that he is not a perfect kid. He makes mistakes, tries to hide them, and gets in trouble just like a real 10-year-old boy. Kids that are not a fan of golf can likely connect with him on a personal level about his family relationships. Children who share a passion for a sport or hobby with a parent will likely be able to connect with Lee’s wanting to draw his father back into golf as well as his desire to be as involved with golf as possible.  

Overall, I found the book to be a good read, and I personally feel like kids who enjoy golf would like the book. It has all the elements of a good story: emotion, connection, growing up, and even some drama with Hal Rustin’s dislike of Lee's family. I personally like the drama that Hal Rustin’s added to the story (Lee’s Pop-Pop accused Hal Rustin of moving his ball with his foot during the Club’s Championship). I found the drama from this grudge gave the book a bit of suspense to it which I enjoyed.