Reading List: Basketball Books

I watched the first episode of Big Shot (Disney+) and I really liked it. I can't wait to watch more!

I love basketball movies, watching the Celtics play, and reading basketball books. I wish there were more basketball centric YA books with female leads. (I'm currently writing one.)

But there aren't....

So, I have a few middle grade books that readers will enjoy after or before watching Big Shot

Book List:

Nikki on the Line by Barbara Carroll Roberts

Pippa Park Raises her Game by Erin Yun

Love, Penelope by Joanne Rocklin

Lizzy Legend by Mathew Ross Smith

Elle of the Ball by Elena Delle Donne 

I'm looking forward to read this one:

Do you have other favorite basketball books?

 

Review: Pippa Park Raises Her Game

Pippa Park lives in the poor side of town and attends public school. She loves basketball, but her guardian sister won't let her play if her grades are too low. When Pippa 's invited to join the private school on a basketball scholarship, she's overjoyed. Of course it means keeping her math grade up, but she can't wait to join the team.

With private school, Pippa believes that she can reinvent herself and become cool. And it works. Soon after practicing with the team, she's invited to the cool girl table.

But keeping up with the cool girls means hiding her true self. She doesn't want them to know that she's poor. She doesn't want them to know she went to the public school. She doesn't want them to see her family life. With all the lies, it's only a matter of time before the truth comes out...

My Thoughts: I was drawn into this book because of the basketball angle and the cover is super cute. And I wasn't disappointed. I did wish for a bit more basketball scenes. I loved Pippa's family and how they looked out for her. I loved her friendship with Buddy.  I also loved all the talk about Korean food and the culture. 

It's a great book about finding your way in middle school when everything around you is changing. Pippa makes several mistakes, but of course she figures it out. It's hard being the new girl in school - especially when you're trying to be someone you're not. Plus it's hard keeping your school life and your home life separate. But at this age, life is all about friendship and family. This book captured it really well.

Cover Thoughts: Adorable
Source: My Library
Library Recommendation: A great middle school book for your school and public libraries.