
Reach for this book when your child is struggling to navigate a competitive friendship or feels threatened by a new peer who seems to have it all. This story addresses the friction that often arises when two strong personalities collide in the classroom, offering a gentle roadmap for moving from rivalry to mutual respect. Lola Levine is a soccer-loving second grader who finds herself at odds with a new student, Bella. Through an unexpected foray into ballet, Lola discovers that her sporty skills translate to the dance floor and that her rival has more in common with her than she imagined. It is a perfect choice for ages 6 to 9, particularly for kids who are learning to balance their diverse interests and cultural identities while practicing the difficult art of the sincere apology.
The book handles school-based social conflict in a direct, secular, and highly realistic manner. The resolution is hopeful and grounded in actionable social skills.
An elementary student who is highly active or 'tomboyish' and may feel that they have to choose between being a 'sports kid' and a 'creative kid.' It is also ideal for a child currently experiencing a 'frenemy' dynamic at school.
This book is safe to read cold. Parents may want to highlight the 'I' messages Lola uses to resolve her conflict with Bella. A parent might see their child coming home grumpy about a new student 'taking over' their friend group or playground space, or perhaps they have heard their child make snap judgments about someone based on their appearance.
Younger readers will focus on the humor and the fun of the dance class. Older readers (8 to 9) will more keenly perceive the nuances of Lola's social navigation and how she balances different aspects of her life.
Unlike many 'rivalry' books, this one specifically celebrates the intersection of athleticism and grace while featuring a protagonist whose multicultural background is a natural and integral part of the narrative.
Lola Levine is an energetic second grader who loves soccer. When a new girl named Bella joins the class and takes Lola's usual spot on the playground, a rivalry begins. The conflict escalates until their teacher and parents intervene, leading to a 'ballet scheme' where Lola ends up taking a dance class with Bella. Through this shared experience, Lola learns to look past her first impressions and discover Bella's perspective.
This overview was generated by AI based on the book's content and reviews, and may not capture every nuance.
Your experience helps other parents find the right book.
Sign in to write a review