Freerunner
(Lorimer Sports Stories)

Gr 5-8--Contemporary issues, including bullying, disabilities, or immigration are explored in each title of this series--while also focusing on a different sport. In Free Runner, Patrick agrees to train in parkour to avoid getting charged for shoplifting, but he must learn to work with a rival to have a successful demonstration. After getting in an accident that paralyzes her from the waist down, former hockey star Janine discovers sledge hockey, a form of the sport for people of all abilities, in Stick Pick. She learns to advocate for others with disabilities by setting up a website to share her experiences. In Sliding Home, Miguel must figure out a way to help his father leave El Salvador, where he is terrorized by gang members. His baseball team coordinates a fundraiser to bring him to Canada, and self-reliant Miguel learns to accept help when he needs it. Basketball-loving Cody makes the team in Bad Shot, but must deal with constant bullying from a teammate. VERDICT Appropriate for readers at a third grade reading level, these books effectively combine high-impact action scenes with sophisticated social themes.