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TIME OUT! is a witty, fast-paced novel based on the sports theme. It discusses love of basketball and the challenges of growing up during uncertain times. Written by Phil Canalin, a Filipino-American author who draws inspiration from his experience of teaching and coaching in high schools, it talks about dreams, friendships, and setbacks.
The story follows Kelsey Chinn and her group of best friends. They all are facing the crushing news that their freshman girls’ basketball season at Westside High has been canceled due to the pandemic. Their hopes were shattering, however, the girls must find a solution to hold onto their passion for the game, their team’s bond, and chase their dreams.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Phil Canalin is an educator-turned-author whose storytelling is inspired by his real-life experiences in American high schools. He has taught in high schools, and that’s what brings authenticity to his storytelling. He writes about challenges, humor, and determination he witnessed among students and athletes.
In TIME OUT!, his background in teaching and coaching is evident, as the story centers on high school basketball, the bonds between teammates, and the struggles young athletes face when systems or circumstances disrupt their dreams. While the book is fictional, the book has a heartfelt coming-of-age sports story. He reminds that the game of life goes on, no matter what.
ABOUT THE BOOK
Have you ever read a book with a combination of comical and satirical narrative? Well, Time Out by Phil Canalin is a witty take on Filipino culture and life abroad. The author has written it with the lens of immigration and cultural identity. Canalin has used humor, tales, and playful words to entertain readers with different topics like Filipino family traditions, daily life quirks, and the struggles of immigrants in another country.
To the core, it’s not a single linear story; It’s a collection of humorous reflections and commentaries. The “time out” theme sends out the message to the readers to take a break and laugh at life’s absurdities, embrace cultural differences, and talk about the shared struggles of the Filipino diaspora. Overall, an inspiring reminder that life must go on.
I picked up TIME OUT! expecting a sports novel, but it turned out to be so much more. It’s about how teenagers deal with their loss, the pandemic, and the pressure to succeed, all while holding onto the game they love. For me, the author’s background as a teacher shines through.
James Linette
This book is such a refreshing read. The mix of humor, heartfelt moments, and real struggles makes it stand out from other YA sports fiction. I loved how the friendships and loyalty were portrayed. It reminded me that setbacks are just opportunities.
Samantha Kevin
As a former athlete, this book hit home for me. Phil Canalin captures the excitement, heartbreak, and determination of high school sports perfectly. The characters felt so real and I could see myself and my teammates in them. I definitely love it.
Emily Reynold
TIME OUT! by Phil Canalin is the perfect read for young adults, sports lovers, and anyone who has ever chased a dream. All the high school students can connect with Time Out for several reasons. First of all, the themes of friendship and loyalty, and growing up during uncertain times. Secondly, basketball and the life of athletes. It features the essence of the authentic game-day energy. Teachers, coaches, and parents will also enjoy it due to the real portrayal of the teens’ life and the strength they gain through teamwork. It is more than just a sports story; it is a ray of hope for anyone who believes in holding onto hope when life calls a time out.
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Phil Canalin is an educator-turned-author whose stories blend his real-life teaching and coaching experiences with humor, heart, and authenticity.
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