Add this to the growing list of graphic novels with excellent female role models. While this is probably perfect for girls headed to middle school, I think the writing is of such quality that older readers (regardless of gender) will find it both nostalgic and reassuring. The farther I read along, the easier I found it to forget that Astrid was only a 5th grader. The art is pleasantly cartoonish without feeling young, and the colors are bright without becoming obnoxious. At the end of the day, this is a story about a person finding her way through changing times and realizing that relationships are not an either or proposition. It's the kind of thing we should all read and reread. ( )

The most entertaining and authentic depiction of modern adolescence sports. ( )

I always loved watching roller derby on TV when I was growing up and loved the movie "Whip It" with Ellen Paige. The author, who is a skater with the Rose City rollers Roller Derby League presents us with a great graphic novel that not only provides details about the "how" of skating, but about gaining self-confidence and navigating the issues of growing up. ( )

The Story follows the adventure of a girl who discovers roller derby as her best friend and her grow apart. The story talks about coming of age and finding interests that might affect the friendships we held. The story is all about the friends we can make or keep along with the experience of growing up and trying new things eventually finding who we want to be.