Aim for the Top

November 1, 2016

Gr 2-4-Jade's team has a chance to be the Under 13s netball champions, and she is determined to help them win. (Netball is a game similar to basketball and played primarily in Commonwealth countries.) But Jade, who comes from a competitive family that values athletic success, has some lessons to learn both on and off the court. At home, Jade's dad is far more focused on her brother's rugby team, and she is hopeful that winning games will attract her busy dad's attention. During netball practice, Jade's tendency to try to impress her teammates is sometimes counterproductive. With the encouragement of her coach Janet and teammate Isabella, Jade begins to make genuine friendships and understand her place on the team. VERDICT The plot, although simple, may satisfy the curiosity of young students interested in learning more about netball.-Shelley Sommer, Inly School, Scituate, MA

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