Ana on the Edge
by A J Sass (Author)
Twelve-year-old Ana-Marie Jin, the reigning US Juvenile figure skating champion, is not a frilly dress kind of kid. So, when Ana learns that next season's program will be princess themed, doubt forms fast. Still, Ana tries to focus on training and putting together a stellar routine worthy of national success.
Once Ana meets Hayden, a transgender boy new to the rink, thoughts about the princess program and gender identity begin to take center stage. And when Hayden mistakes Ana for a boy, Ana doesn't correct him and finds comfort in this boyish identity when he's around.
As their friendship develops, Ana realizes that it's tricky juggling two different identities on one slippery sheet of ice. And with a major competition approaching, Ana must decide whether telling everyone the truth is worth risking years of hard work and sacrifice.
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Publishers Weekly
Debut novelist Sass tackles the subject of gender identity in this #OwnVoices novel set in the world of competitive figure skating. Ana-Marie Jin, a biracial (Chinese/white) 12-year-old figure skater, faces new challenges after winning Juvenile Nationals. Moving up to the intermediate level means that, instead of skating in hometown San Francisco with best friend Tamar, Ana will work with a coach and a famous choreographer in nearby Oakland. Never a fan of dresses or skirts, Ana balks when the choreographer assigns a princess-themed routine ("the graceful edges, the dainty arm movements"). What feels more comfortable is when transgender skater Hayden, whom Ana is teaching in exchange for free ice time, sees Ana as a boy. Ana's bourgeoning understanding of gender within a traditionally binary sport, and fear that people won't accept or understand a different pronoun, offers a mirror and window for readers. Nonbinary figure skater Sass renders scenes on and off the ice with vivid descriptions, and writes nuanced, layered portrayals of characters including Ana's devoted working-class mother, inspirational coach, and friend Hayden, who knows exactly who he is. Ages 8-12. Agent: Jordan Hamessley, New Leaf Literary. (Oct.)
Copyright 2020 Publishers Weekly, LLC Used with permission.Kirkus
Review quotes
JUV039050 - Juvenile Fiction | Social Themes | Emotions & Feelings
JUV039020 - Juvenile Fiction | Social Themes | Adolescence
JUV060000 - Juvenile Fiction | LGBT
JUV032120 - Juvenile Fiction | Sports & Recreation | Ice Skating
Families
Family life
Gender identity
Ice skating
