Stealing Bases

A parent would reach for this book when their teenager is struggling to leave behind a negative social reputation or is facing intense pressure to perform in competitive extracurriculars. It is a relatable story about Kylie Collins, a girl who made mistakes during basketball season and is now determined to reinvent herself as a positive leader on the softball field. The book explores themes of personal accountability, the sting of betrayal, and the difficult process of earning back trust while pursuing high-level goals. Appropriate for ages 12 to 17, this novel addresses the messiness of teenage relationships and the internal struggle to silence one's own snarky impulses. Parents will appreciate the focus on self-improvement and the realistic portrayal of how difficult it is to remain kind when your fiercest rival is also your most talented teammate.