Skinnybones

Alex Frankovitch is a witty but unathletic elementary student who struggles to find his footing in Little League. He is constantly bullied by the talented T.J. Stoner. After a disastrous but hilarious attempt to embarrass T.J. on the field, Alex fears his reputation is ruined. However, a humorous letter he wrote to a cat food company wins him a national contest, giving him a chance at stardom that has nothing to do with baseball. SENSITIVE TOPICS: The book deals with bullying and peer humiliation in a very direct, secular, and realistic way. The resolution is hopeful but grounded: Alex doesn't become a baseball star, but he finds a different venue for his talents. EMOTIONAL ARC: The story starts with comedic frustration, builds to a peak of social anxiety and embarrassment after the 'Booga Booga' incident, and ends on a high note of vindication and self-discovery. IDEAL READER: A middle-grade reader who feels like an outsider in sports culture or a child who uses humor as a defense mechanism. PARENT TRIGGER: A parent might see their child being mocked by a 'golden boy' peer or hear their child say they want to be a hermit because of a public mistake. PARENT PREP: The book can be read cold. Parents might want to discuss the 'Booga Booga' scene to talk about the difference between standing up for yourself and being disruptive. AGE EXPERIENCE: Younger readers (8-9) will find the physical comedy and 'stinky' baseball skills hilarious. Older readers (11-12) will better resonate with the deep-seated social anxiety and the nuance of Alex using humor to mask his small stature. DIFFERENTIATOR: Unlike many sports books where the underdog hits a home run to win the game, Park allows Alex to remain a bad athlete while finding value in his personality and writing instead.