About This Book
A parent would reach for this book when their child is struggling to maintain focus or passion for their favorite activities because of a stressful situation at home, particularly a parental separation. It is a supportive tool for children who feel that their world is divided and who are experiencing performance anxiety as a result of emotional weight. The story follows a young baseball player trying to navigate the pressure of the game while his parents are living apart. Matt Christopher is the gold standard for middle-grade sports fiction, and this title uses the familiar structure of a baseball season to explore complex feelings of worry and resilience. It is highly appropriate for ages 8 to 12, offering a realistic look at how family changes impact a child's confidence. Parents will appreciate how it validates a child's sadness without being overly heavy, ultimately showing that it is okay to keep playing and find joy even when things at home are changing.
