Got Young Scotts Valley Readers? A Must-Read Graphic Novel for Girls

By FREYA HOOPER (Star Patcher)

Really strong graphic novels are always something that bring a smile to my face. I am a huge fan of the genre and when they are executed well they can rival some of the best novels out there. The quality continue to get better and better and today I have a lovely debut graphic novel author who has nailed it on her first offering out of the gate.

Don’t forget to visit my website at www.onegreatbook.com so that you won’t miss any books that make the roller derby the coolest thing for girls to be doing this summer.

Title: Roller Girl

Author: Victoria Jamieson

Target: Grade 5-7

Series: No

What this book is about:
Twelve year old Astrid and her friend Nicole are trying to decide what to do over the summer before they start middle school. Nicole loves ballet, but Astrid is dreaming of becoming a roller derby champion. When Nicole choses ballet camp with Astrid’s arch enemy over roller derby camp, their friendship is seriously threatened. Perhaps it is time for these two friends to move on and follow their own passions.

Why I love this book:
I am always looking for strong graphic novels to recommend after kids have read Smileand Sisters. This book perfectly fits the bill. The graphics are clean and realistic, reminiscent of Raina Telgemeier. The story is an honest look at friendship, hurt feelings and following the path that is right for you.

I enjoyed Astrid. I liked that Roller Derby camp was hard and that she wanted to quit - welcome to the real world. I liked that she didn’t always get the positions she wanted, despite working hard and that she had to deal with jealousy when her friend got a spot she was coveting. These show kids that even in stories, characters can have happy endings by adjusting their expectations instead of expecting everything to go their way. A lovely message that rings true.

Who this book is for:
Great book for kids who enjoyed Smile and Sisters.

Final thoughts:
I love that Astrid is a fierce strong girl to be reckoned with.

I am a mom of three with a passion for literature! No matter what book series our kids devour, as they come to an end, we as parents ask the inevitable question - what is next? I am ever on the job, trying to answer that question. I try to do it with a variety of books. Some are silly, some true to life, some pure fantasy, but in the end I hope they make my children love words, explore new ideas, and laugh!

Previous book columns From Freya Hooper:

Cooking Up a Great Book for Kids

Picture Book for Dog Lovers

For Your Readers: Book to Inspire Young People

Dear Parents: Books That Make Your Kids Smarter

Keep Your Little Ones Reading: Here’s Perfect Alphabet Book

Here Is A Super Science Fiction for Your Kids

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