Girls Can't Hit

Gr 8 Up—Fleur Waters didn't dream of becoming a boxer, but in this follow-up to Boys Don't Knit, she certainly ends up as one. When readers first meet Fleur, her life is pretty decent. She has parents who love her and each other, but squabble a bit; a boyfriend, George, who is too into his routines, but is a safe choice; and two best friends, Blossom and Pip, who are exceedingly quirky. When über-feminist Blossom discovers that a local boxing club is holding a separate women's night, she drags Fleur and Pip along to protest this blatant sexism. Fleur is initally drawn to the club almost exclusively to spite her friend, but she ultimately ends up taking boxing in earnest—much to the chagrin of her mom and boyfriend, who both fear for her safety. After weeks of hard work, Fleur's goals quickly shift from general fitness to learning how to spar. Her club organizes an exhibition match to promote the sport, and Fleur must choose between fighting or bowing out. Full of funny moments, this sequel features a quick-witted young woman discovering herself by embracing possibilities and trying something new. An author's note speaks to Easton's understanding of his bias and male privilege, which may assuage some readers' concerns.