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.