Monday, April 28, 2025

Middle Grade Review: It's All or Nothing, Vale

 



Vale used to be a champion fence; she might have been on her way to the Olympics. But a bike crash ruined her leg. Not she's desperately trying to make a comeback. But things aren't working out. Most days her leg really hurts. Some days she can push past the pain. She's not sure who she is without fencing. Will her life ever be the same again?
My Thoughts: Vale is working through the emotions of her accident; most importantly grief and anger. She wishes that life hadn't changed. I wanted to wrap her up in a hug as she struggled through her emotions. She worried about friendships, about the word disabled, and about family dramas. This novel in verse worked through my emotions; it was a powerful read.

Cover Thoughts: Powerful
Source: My Library
Why I Read this Book: The summary peaked my interest
Library Recommendation: A really great book for your school and public library 

8 comments:

瑣碎之事 said...

Oh wow! I've always wanted to read this book -- it's been on my TBR for way too long! Thanks for sharing this review!! It's made me want to read the book even more lol!

Natalie Aguirre said...

I think a lot of kids who are injured in sports could relate to this story. I'm glad you enjoyed it so much.

Jenni said...

This sounds intriguing! Fencing is a sport I've always wanted to learn.

Greg Pattridge said...

This story will be a good companion to kids facing similar circumstances. Thanks for featuring on this week's MMGM.

Carol Baldwin said...

This does sound like a powerful read!

Brenda said...

I've always thought that fencing was a wonderful sport, happy to see your review this week. Happy MMGM

Valinora Troy said...

I'd love to do fencing some time, and this is a great setup for a story. Thanks for sharing!

Rosi said...

There aren't many books out there about fencing. Thanks for your thoughts. It sounds like you really enjoyed this one.