Gold Medal Summer

Publishers Weekly

Joey Jordan, 14, craves one thing: to win gold at the Regionals gymnastics meet this summer, and she’s willing to go against her parents’ wishes and give up a “normal” teenage life to do it. But Joey’s competitiveness falters when her best friend, Alex, decides to quit gymnastics, and a cute boy from her past shows up and wants to hang out. In her first middle-grade novel, YA author and PW contributor Freitas (The Survival Kit) offers young readers plenty to relate to: living in the shadow of a perfect older sibling, battling with parents over life’s choices, and handling insecurities that make it seem like failure is looming large. Her story also focuses intently on gymnastics: its demanding training, the rivalries between competitors, and the challenges of a sport that requires physicality, grace, and showmanship. It’s a predictable but enjoyable story of a girl overcoming obstacles to realize her dreams, and for readers who have dreamed of trying out the balance beam or uneven bars, Joey’s story will be captivating. Ages 9–12. Agent: Miriam Altshuler, Miriam Altshuler Literary Agency. (June)

Children's Literature - Carollyne Hutter

Gymnastics is a sport that requires total concentration to succeed and get a gold medal. And getting gold is what 13-year-old Joey Jordan wants more than anything. Joey decides to devote her summer to only gymnastics and landing the all-elusive gold at Regionals. Yet, it is hard to concentrate when so much is shaking up Joey's world. Alex, a fellow gymnast and her best friend, is thinking of giving up gymnastics for good even though she often gets gold at meets. Alex is tired of performing with injuries, a common problem in gymnastics. Another distraction for Joey is Tanner, a cute boy who she knew before and who recently moved back to the area. The Coach's rule is the gymnasts can't have boyfriends. Added to the mix, Joey and the assistant coach decide they want Joey to do new daring routines at Regionals and practice behind the Coach's back. How will Joey balance the many things pulling at her in different directions? The author is a former gymnast and the novel gives an intimate look at the grueling world of competitive gymnastics. The plot of the novel follows the formula of many teen girl sports novels: big upcoming competition, but mean girls and boy distractions in the way of succeeding. Joey and the other characters are endearing and they draw the reader in, even with the formulaic plot structure.

School Library Journal

Gr 5–8—Elite gymnast Joey, 13, is willing to do anything to compete with the best. Although she's not the most powerful gymnast, her artistic expression and winning personality make her a standout, as long as her hang-ups, including taunts from rival Sarah, don't undo her concentration. Even a budding relationship with a former childhood friend must take a backseat to daily hours-long competition. Frustrated with Coach Angelo's refusal to allow her to tweak her routines to showcase her strengths, Joey secretly works with the assistant coach, Maureen, and older sister Julia, once a National Champion, on new routines for the New England regional competition. Although the ending may be a bit predictable, it is satisfying. Joey is likable and believable; even readers unfamiliar with gymnastics will identify with her friendship and first-relationship issues. Due to this year's London Olympics, this novel will probably have a wide audience. Freitas is a former competitive gymnast, and her descriptions of routines are taut and eye-opening. Although the hardships of the sport are not underplayed, this is a largely positive novel about hard work and self-confidence.—Jennifer Schultz, Fauquier County Public Library, Warrenton, VA