Roller Girl: (Newbery Honor Award Winner)

Discover the enchanting world of roller derby through Victoria Jamieson’s Roller Girl, a vibrant graphic novel that narrates the journey of 12-year-old Astrid Vasquez as she dives into the thrilling sport of roller derby. This coming-of-age tale beautifully blends the energetic atmosphere of the rink with the complexities of growing up, navigating friendships, and embracing personal passions. Astrid’s adventure begins with her first derby bout, which ignites her fascination...

Discover the enchanting world of roller derby through Victoria Jamieson’s Roller Girl, a vibrant graphic novel that narrates the journey of 12-year-old Astrid Vasquez as she dives into the thrilling sport of roller derby. This coming-of-age tale beautifully blends the energetic atmosphere of the rink with the complexities of growing up, navigating friendships, and embracing personal passions. Astrid’s adventure begins with her first derby bout, which ignites her fascination with the sport and sets her on a path to self-discovery.

The book expertly captures the roller derby excitement, detailing the fierce dynamics of the game and the empowering culture surrounding it. Astrid's aspirations become her challenge when her best friend opts for dance camp, leaving Astrid to brave derby camp solo. The delightful narrative is supported by captivating illustrations that not only enhance the storytelling but also explain the sport’s rules and strategies in a creative way.

Readers will find themselves cheering for Astrid as she faces the highs and lows of learning to skate, honing her skills, and forming new friendships – such as with the encouraging Rainbow Bite, a star jammer who becomes a virtual mentor. Jamieson seamlessly weaves in themes of perseverance, courage, and identity, showcasing a relatable character from a diverse background who embraces her culture with pride.

With relatable conflicts and heartwarming moments, Roller Girl is more than just a story about sports; it’s a profound exploration of friendship, resilience, and self-acceptance. Inspired by her experiences, Astrid ultimately learns valuable lessons that extend far beyond the rink, making this graphic novel a must-read for young girls eager to tackle their personal battles and chase their dreams.