Charlie Brown constantly gears up to kick a new football but Lucy always pulls it away from him at the last second, resulting in him falling on his back with a scream and a spinning head.

If you are a fan of the classic Peanuts comic strip or cartoons, you are likely to enjoy this book. A good deal of the original characters are included, and the illustrations that match Schulz's original style.

The story is pretty slim, but there are opportunities for parents, educators, and other adults to discuss bigger messages about helpful and unhelpful actions with young children through Lucy's bullying behavior, Charlie Brown's indefatigable perseverance, and the cheerful support of Charlie's friends.

The inconclusive ending may bother some, but it will also provide children and adults with opportunity for creative musings on how they think the story concluded for Charlie. ( )