Shadowed

Gr 6-9–Sports fiction is rife with tales of young people demonstrating personal development alongside athletic growth. Told over several years, Deuker's latest YA novel introduces readers to Nate, a benchwarmer on his soccer team who dreams of glory on the basketball court. His best bet to improve his skills is his talented neighbor, Lucas, who pushes Nate literally and figuratively, as their relationship goes from harmonious to hostile to star teammates. A tragic accident makes readers aware that the title refers to the shadow of Lucas that looms over Nate as he ups his game, slowly coming into himself as a basketball player and a person. However, readers may wish that loyal, nuanced underdog Lucas was the focus of the story, instead of existing as someone else’s motivation. This novel might have been an adequate hi-lo sports-centric recommendation, but is likely too lengthy for striving readers. ­Luckily, the chapters are brief, helping it go down faster and easier than ­expected. ­