Roller Girl

by Victoria Jamieson

No cover — Victoria Jamieson: Roller Girl (2015, Dial Books for Young Readers)

eBook

English language

Published Sept. 8, 2015 by Dial Books for Young Readers.

ISBN:: 978-0-698-19060-3

(10 reviews)

For most of her twelve years, Astrid has done everything with her best friend Nicole. But after Astrid falls in love with roller derby and signs up for derby camp, Nicole decides to go to dance camp instead. And so begins the most difficult summer of Astrid's life as she struggles to keep up with the older girls at camp, hang on to the friend she feels slipping away, and cautiously embark on a new friendship. As the end of summer nears and her first roller derby bout (and junior high!) draws closer, Astrid realizes that maybe she is strong enough to handle the bout, a lost friendship, and middle school… in short, strong enough to be a roller girl.

In this graphic novel debut that earned a Newbery Honor and five starred reviews, real-life derby girl Victoria Jamieson has created an inspiring coming-of-age story about friendship, perseverence, and girl …

Source: penguinrandomhouse.ca/books/313687/roller-girl#9780698190603

13 editions

Jessie reviewed Roller Girl by Victoria Jamieson

Review of 'Roller Girl' on 'Goodreads'

5 stars

I loved All's Faire in Middle School so much, I immediately had to start reading this one, which is even more delightful. Loved the artificially-colored-hair-as-an-act-of-rebellion representation. Loved the tough, diverse derby girls, especially role model Rainbow Bite. Loved that Astrid devotes all her time and energy to becoming good enough to be a jammer...and doesn't become a jammer. Because sometimes we try and try to improve and we still kinda suck. Sometimes we have a goal in mind and fail to reach it, and that's okay. Not enough children's media shows that, I think. The portrayal of a two friends growing apart as they age and their interests diverge, with all the messy emotions that go along with that, was spot-on. No wonder this was up for a Caudill. Great for fans of Reina Telgemeir, the Babysitter's club graphic novels, and the like.