About This Book
Reach for this book when your child is grappling with a change in their social status, particularly when a talented newcomer makes them feel insecure or unappreciated. It is a perfect fit for a middle grader who loves competition but is struggling with the frustration of watching a peer get away with bad behavior just because they are high achievers. Mickey Labriogla is a dedicated catcher whose world is upended when a cocky new pitcher named Zoom joins the team. As Zoom's arrogance creates friction, Mickey must navigate feelings of jealousy, the pressure of living up to his coach father's expectations, and a budding crush. This story provides a realistic look at how a young athlete can maintain their integrity and love for the game even when team dynamics become toxic. It offers a great platform for discussing how to handle unfairness and the importance of holding onto one's values when others are taking shortcuts.
