Spiked - (Lorimer Sports Stories) by Steven Barwin (Paperback)

About the Book

Emma's enticed into playing for the volleyball team -- but first she has to overcome her fear of what her new friends will think

Book Synopsis

Eighth-grader Emma is the tallest person in her class. While she used to be into sports in a big way, now that she's hanging out with her new best friend, other things have become more important--like clothes and makeup and fitting in. When Emma gets roped into volunteering for the girls' volleyball team, she feels the urge to play again. First, though, she'll have to overcome her fear of what her new friends will say if she does.

Review Quotes

"Barwin's dialogue and characters are spot-on in this sports story for reluctant readers. There are different levels and styles of bullying examined in this book, as well as how they are handled by those being bullied and the school administration. Barwin's insightful portrayal of adolescent friendship, good and bad, is entirely believable." Rated E: excellent, enduring, everyone should read it!-- (12/01/2013)

"Part of the Sports Stories series, this is a good pick for tween girls trying to navigate peer pressure, and it serves up a healthy dose of self-worth and empowerment."--Booklist (04/01/2014)

About the Author

Steven Barwin is a middle school teacher in Thornhill, Ontario. He is the author of seven books in the Lorimer Sports Stories series.