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“Curveball is certainly just that: readers will think they are in for a story about baseball, and before they know it, they’re in the middle of a family drama with some terrific role-playing game action thrown in. While this title seems to have something for every reader, athletes struggling to remember their passion for the game, or players with overbearing parents, will find that this is the book for them. …Students will connect with the pressures Elena faces, from team competition to family and friend dynamics. Elena also deals with the unique challenge of being the only girl playing a male-dominated sport. …Teachers who are helping students find their path amidst pressure from parents and peers can recommend this title as good starting point for discussions.”

– School Library Journal

Curveball

Written by Pablo Cartaya
Illustrated by Miguel Diaz Rivas
Published by Disney Hyperion

Baseball is Elena Rueda’s entire life: She may be the only girl on her team, but she’s the best player and everyone knows it. Except… Elena has stopped having fun, and it’s time to leave the sport behind.

The problem is, Elena has no idea who she is without a bat in her hand. Can a summer spent with her brother’s quirky friends in an empty sandlot that offers a world of possibility show Elena who she is—and teach her to love to play again?

Look for the Spanish version, Curveball (Spanish Edition).

Primary ISBN: 9781368090094
Publication Date: May 2024
Available As: Hardcover, Paperback
Middle Grade, Graphic Novel, Age 08 or older

Community Represented:

Themes: , , , , , , , ,

Setting: United States

Character's Place in the Immigration Journey: Unknown Arrival

Book Creator(s) Connection to the Community Represented: Own Voices/Lived Experience

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