This is a cute little book about following your dreams and achieving them, even if you don't fit in or people don't think you can do it.

Fowl by Shaun McMahon is a children's chapter book. Bert loves playing football. He dreams of being a professional footballer for his local side West Farthing F.C. There is just one problem. Bert is a chicken. Bert lives on Manor Side Farm where the other chickens make fun of him for being different – a chicken should not play football, they say – but despite this, it is still Bert’s dream. After a chance visit to the farm by Gerald Fox, the manager of West Farthing F.C., Bert is talent spotted and offered a try out. Gerald wants Bert to be their secret weapon in an upcoming game.

Fowl is a short chapter book that will appeal to young readers that enjoy doing something unexpected, like a chicken playing football (soccer to Americans). I thought the story had a good balance of adventure and Bert trying to do what he loved. The action was well done, and Bert's loyal character made him a solid character for young readers to relate to and root for. There are lessons about being yourself, support of/for friends and family, and friendship. I have to admit that looking at the cover and reading the description I expecting some illustrations, and I was a little sad to find none. I think the book could have benefited from some, even simple black and white sketches at chapter beginnings or high action moments would have added a great deal to the whole.

An inspirational and unlikely hero is born in Shaun McMahon's Fowl, the story of a simple barnyard chicken named Bert McCluck who has a big dream of playing football for his favorite club, West Farthing FC. When West Farthing makes the Cup Final against bitter rivals East Farthing, Bert unexpectedly finds himself in the position to make his dream come true, though not without overcoming some dastardly figures along the way.

Ostensibly a children's book, the strong morals and endearing characters will appeal to animal and sports fans of any age. As others have stated, Fowl would benefit from illustrations to go along with Bert's journey to the top, but it's still a fun book even without them.

**I was given a copy of this book by the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. My thanks to Matador and Netgalley**

This charming story about a chicken who wants to play football was quite a rollercoaster! I enjoyed reading his trials and tribulations and was impressed with his loyalty and morality throughout the story. He originally thinks there is no way that a chicken can play football, but his friends and family support his dreams, telling him that he can do anything he puts his mind to if he works hard and stays motivated. The messages in this story are lovely, and I liked all the action! I hope that in publication we get some pictures added to enhance the story. I'd happily add this book to my classroom shelves!

This is a perfect book for children that love football. It is exciting, a lot is happening, and it is also heartwarming. And the main message is just perfect. I wish there were illustrations to go with it.