Fresh Reads, Honest reviews, Educator-approved
Step onto the court. Hoops is a vibrant graphic novel that brings the 1975 fight for gender equity to life. Based on a true story, the Lady Bears must overcome empty bleachers and homemade uniforms to prove they belong in the game. It’s an inspiring, visually stunning tale of teamwork and the enduring power of Title IX that belongs in every middle-grade library.
She’s running for two. Patty a girl who carries her family’s hopes on her back and the rhythm of the track in her feet. Navigating a new school and a complex home life, Patty must learn that even the fastest runner can’t win the race alone.
Success isn’t a straight line it’s a playbook of setbacks and grit. Game Changers, uses the stories of over forty legendary athletes to teach teens about perseverance, leadership, and growth mindset.
Step into the ring with Pillow Talk! Follow college student Grace as she transforms into “Cinderhella,” a viral star in the gritty world of indie pillow fighting. Tackling body positivity, cyberbullying, and the power of found family, this vibrant read uses shifting color palettes to tell a poignant story of self-acceptance.
Hockey Girl Loves Drama Boy is a charming YA graphic novel exploring the unlikely bond between Alix, a hotheaded hockey star, and Ezra, a poised drama student. Beyond the romance, Faith Erin Hicks expertly navigates complex themes of emotional regulation, identity, and the pressures of competitive sports. It’s an honest, contemporary look at self-discovery and finding calm in the storm, making it a must-read for high schoolers navigating their own social rinks.