March 4, 2025 by Graphix
E ARC Provided by Edelweiss Plus
Nat has a history of doing poorly at any athletic adventures she has tried, and sometimes even struggles with walking across the room without falling. This means that when her friend Zoe wants to quit the volleyball team because Lily is being mean to her, and wants to train for a triathlon, Nat is reluctant to join her. Lily, who previously game Nat a hard time, has ramped up her meanness, and is joined in it by the popular Alex. There is a new Climate Coalition club at the school, and Luca is interested in joining and participating in the competition, but he doesn't know quite what to do for a project. Nat reluctantly starts training with Zoe and Coach Renny, and has a lot to learn not only about swimming, biking, and running, but about having a good attitude as well. Even though she falls and injures her knee, putting her out of commission for two weeks, she practices all of the events, and has a successful triathlon. She even inspires Luca's project, and Lily is put in her place.
Strengths: My favorite part of the book was the very good description (and pictures) or how to set up a transition station for a triathlon! It always seems like the swimming should go last so that one wouldn't have to bike while wet, but I'm sure it's first so that fewer people drown. Scrivan's note that she always thought she wasn't an athlete in middle school is one I hope students take to heart. Nat's general anxiety has lessened, and it makes perfect sense that she would still have some localized axiety. The message about trying things that seem difficult and keeping a positive attitude is one that many students need.
Weaknesses: I worry about Flo. I know she is a humorous character, with her sock puppet and desire to adopt unusual pets, but if she were a student she would have a lot of social issues!
What I really think: Now I am just sad that I won't be able to start training for a triathlon until at least August of 2025. The swimming has always stopped me, but I need to take some hints from Coach Renny and just try. Fans of this series will be glad to see this new installment.
Weaknesses: I worry about Flo. I know she is a humorous character, with her sock puppet and desire to adopt unusual pets, but if she were a student she would have a lot of social issues!
What I really think: Now I am just sad that I won't be able to start training for a triathlon until at least August of 2025. The swimming has always stopped me, but I need to take some hints from Coach Renny and just try. Fans of this series will be glad to see this new installment.
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