You Can't Spike Your Serves (Sports Illustrated Kids Victory School Superstars)

Gr 2-5—Alicia wants to help her pen pal, Jenny, earn money to purchase new pom-poms, and when an Olympic volleyball player comes to school to teach the fourth graders her sport, Alicia comes up with the idea of a tournament to raise the needed funds. Learning the sport is fun, and Alicia, a good jumper, especially enjoys spiking the ball. She discovers how hard serving is without being able to jump, but Reese suggests the perfect technique for her. Manga-style graphics give this book a cutting-edge look and enhance understanding of the text. Short chapters, colorful cartoon illustrations, and engaging subject matter make this title appropriate for those new to chapter books as well as older readers.—Rachel Artley, Watertown Elementary School, TN