This is such a quick, lighthearted read that combines roller derby with a queer summer romance. I really enjoyed the way Stella's crush developed along with her roller derby skills. The book moves fast but would be enjoyable for teens 13-16. Stella also has dyslexia, representation that is great to see in books.

Thank you to NetGalley and publisher for the opportunity to read and review.

This was a pretty enjoyable read. I went through it pretty fast, and I even wish it was longer so I could keep reading. But even though it's short, it wrapped up the story pretty well. I think it's a good book for younger readers because it's an easy read, but it can also be enjoyed by older readers. It tells the story of a young girl discovering herself, a new sport and forming friendships/relationships. I only wish it had more roller derby in it.

first of all; I would like to thank Net-gally for the free e-book. (that's how I get all my net-gally books) but thank you for the publisher (or whoever hands the ARCS out to trust me with it) It was adorable and I think I'll put a MAY CONTAIN SPOILER TAG HERE: so I don't get in trouble; (this is my 18th book of the season, so I know how to do this)

Let me just say, I didn't expect such a small book to bring all the feels! (It did) and when you read it bring tissues with you! Because there's a part (A couple parts really) in the book that will make you cry, like (spoiler) where she tells her grandfather she's bi...as someone who had a very understanding grandfather coming out to them was the hardest thing for me at that age as well (I didn't do it till I was much older so that's why I got so emotional...) but if you have any soul in you at all you will cry....

Also for the author; sorry it took so long,but I needed a good cry....so thank you for being patient with me!

A quick, fun read great for teens looking for a high-low book (high interest level, lower reading level), clearly written by someone who knows roller derby well! I always appreciate when conflict in a book arises in natural ways that don't require a cookie-cutter, all-bad villain, and The Stripe and the Star did a great job of that.

Excellent YA read that even adults will enjoy!

This is a short, fast-paced novel about a fifteen year old girl's summer moving her grandfather out of his home in Arizona. Fresh off the heels of her parents' divorce, the main character is heartbroken and bored.

Enter roller derby camp. At the camp, the main character pushes her physical limits and makes a friend who could be something more. Readers will sweat with the main character in the Arizona heat and feel the will they-won't they tension of the friendship. Nice representation of same-sex relationships and strong female protagonists.

A huge thank you to NetGalley and North Star Editions for providing me with an ARC of this book!

I really enjoyed this thoughtful story about a young bisexual girl, Stella, joining a roller derby class while staying at her Grandfather's rural home over the summer. Stella's connection with the bright, spunky Quinn is immediate - and author Makenna J. Myers expertly crafts a believable emotional journey as the two girls get from friendship to something a little deeper over the course of the summer.

This novel touches on themes of family illness, divorce, and bullying, but at its core is Stella's strength and steadfast belief in herself. Even when she wavers, even when she struggles, her Mom, Grandpa, and Quinn (as well as Coach Agony and Malice in Wonderland) are there to pick her back up (sometimes literally!) and keep her going. Stella learns to use her support network, to talk to others about her feelings, and to trust her body as she develops her athleticism.

A great aspect of this book was its disability representation in our protagonist, Stella. Stella is dyslexic, and has some struggles with reading, writing, and texting. She's sometimes scared to tell her new friends about her dyslexia or to admit when it's making things harder for her, but she is offered nothing but love and understanding from the people around her. I felt Stella's dyslexia was handled appropriately and gives weight to the story, as well as adds to Stella's character. There is some talk about the difficulties dyslexic students face getting the help they need in school, which many dyslexic readers may find relatable.

The text of the story starts relatively simple and progresses to slightly more complex language as the story progresses. However, it is always clear to read, and context clues abound for more difficult language. The story may use easier language but it doesn't hold back on crafting an emotionally complex character arc with plenty of depth for Stella, her Grandfather, and her Mom.

Overall, this was a really lovely way to spend my Saturday afternoon, and I'm grateful I got the opportunity to read it.