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. 
