From School Library Journal
Grade 6 Up—A group of friends dream of success on the professional auto-racing circuit. Eddie, the driver; Rick, the engineer; and Herb, the mechanic, are joined in their quest by Eddie's Aunt Sophie, team owner; and Rick's sister Caroline, team manager and possible romantic interest for Eddie. The young men start racing in the Trans Am series and then have the opportunity to lease a damaged Formula Atlantic car for one race, enlist professional help, land a sponsor, and make friends and enemies on the track and off as they emerge as contenders for the Formula Atlantic championship. Along the way, they cope with endless travel, the theft of their equipment, and even a hilarious TV interview. Racing scenes are limited in number and length, but are very well done and accurately use racing terminology to describe events. The series' focus is on the team's struggles, such as personality issues, long hours, crashes, and money, and while the characters aren't developed, the stories are engaging and fast paced, and carry a good sense of anticipation. Occasional black-and-white photos depict racing scenes. Eddie's team's early success is somewhat implausible, but Hampshire's stories will appeal to racing fans and anyone who roots for underdogs.—
Jeffrey A. French, Willoughby-Eastlake Public Library, Willowick, OH Copyright © Reed Business Information, a division of Reed Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.
Review
"This series is ideal for reluctant readers. The short books are enjoyable, and the characters are fun to read about. Although the stories are not action packed, they provide the right level of humor, romance, action, and suspense to keep readers interested. The writing is simple and descriptive. The story is predictable yet absorbing. The pacing is quick, as a racing story should be, with funny, idiosyncratic, and heroic characters. They could be the boys next door, so readers will identify with them and root for them. A useful glossary is included, and photos, although some of very poor quality, are sprinkled throughout the books. This short series is a worthwhile purchase for young racing fans."
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Voice of Youth Advocates (VOYA) "Racing-scenes are limited in number and length, but are very well done and accurately use racing terminology to describe events. . . Hampshire's stories will appeal to racing fans and anyone who roots for underdogs."
-- School Library Journal
