Reading Metrics
Description
In this middle-grades sports novel, Gabby is a budding figure skater whose new coach pushes her to attempt a double-axel a jump she's not sure she can land without getting hurt. As the pressure to excel grows, she must weigh the desire to improve against the risk of injury and decide whether to trust her own instincts or follow her coach's demands. The story follows her struggle with confidence, loyalty, and the tough choices that come with pursuing a competitive sport.
Quick Summary
When Gabby steps onto the ice with dreams of landing a flashy double-axel, a new coach pushes her to master the jump even though she's convinced she isn't ready, creating a tense showdown between following orders and protecting herself. The story walks the line between the thrill of learning a flashy skating move and the anxiety of being pushed too hard, showing how scary it can feel when someone you trust expects you to do something that seems impossible. Kids who love sports-filled narratives especially those who've ever had a demanding coach or who are themselves learning a tricky skill will see a lot of themselves in Gabby's struggle and feel relieved when she finds a way to speak up without losing her love for skating. Parents will appreciate that the book doesn't glorify overtraining; instead it emphasizes listening to your body, asking for help, and the value of honest communication between athlete and adult. At just under 5,400 words, the short, fast-paced chapters make it a great choice for reluctant readers who want a confidence-boosting story that still feels real. If you liked other stories about kids balancing passion and pressure like the sports-centric moments in "The One and Only Ivan" or the teamwork lessons of "Kick" you'll find a similar, bite-size thrill in "Double-Axel Doubt."