Caz Cadman succeeds because the intense baseball action balances his quiet anxiety about keeping a secret. The story provides a sense of security through a supportive family as he stands up to a persistent bully. Books in this family share high stakes sports drama and realistic characters who navigate private struggles while seeking acceptance.
Reach for this book when your child is grappling with the weight of a secret or feels like they have to hide a part of themselves to fit into a new group. It is an ideal choice for middle-grade readers navigating the complexities of gender identity, especially those who find solace and community in team sports. The story follows ten-year-old Caz Cadman, a talented pitcher who recently moved from Canada to Washington for a fresh start. While the plot centers on a high-stakes baseball season, the emotional core explores the courage required to live authentically when faced with the fear of rejection. It is a compassionate, age-appropriate look at the transgender experience, emphasizing that a child's identity is just one part of their multifaceted life. Parents will appreciate how it balances the tension of a sports drama with a sensitive, realistic portrayal of a supportive family navigating social transition.
