About This Book
Reach for this book when your child is grappling with a sense of injustice or feels that 'the rules' are unfairly blocking their potential. Whether it is being told they are too young, the wrong gender, or simply in the wrong place, children often feel powerless against institutional norms. This story follows thirteen-year-old Joelle, a girl who refuses to accept that she can only play softball instead of her true passion, baseball, just because of her gender. Through Joelle's journey in a new town, the book explores themes of resilience, creative problem solving, and the frustration of not being heard by adults. It is an excellent choice for middle-grade readers (ages 8 to 12) who are beginning to notice social inequities. Joelle is a fiery, relatable protagonist who models how to channel anger into constructive action and community building, making it a perfect tool for parents looking to encourage self-advocacy and perseverance in their children.
