Winning the Team

Gr 4–8—In this new series, 12-year-old Brittany and her parents move from Ohio to Austin, TX, so that she can join an elite gymnastics training program. Problems arise when she tries to fit in with her three new teammates: Jessie, the friendliest until Britt blabs her suspicions about Jessie's bulimia; Christina, the best gymnast, who dislikes the new girl and the new competition; and Noelle, a total Christina-follower. There's plenty of preteen angst to keep the plot thickening, and the authors skillfully include plenty of facts about the sport. However, the vocabulary—especially in the dialogue among the girls—seems way too difficult and improbable for 12-year-olds—e.g., "heinous," "archnemesis," "livid," "celebratory," "conspiring." A recurring theme in which homeschooled Brittany compares herself to Boo Radley and her situation to his in To Kill a Mockingbird seems totally wrong. It appears to be a failed attempt to lend some literary value to an otherwise rather lightweight book. With a dearth of good sports fiction on this subject aimed at middle-grade girls, this one is acceptable even with its drawbacks. It will no doubt be a popular choice for the intended audience.—Kate Kohlbeck, Randall School, Waukesha, WI