Lucy Tries Short Track

January 1, 2016

K-Gr 2-Canadian sports reporter Bowes has written a picture book about school-age girls who participate in the sport of short track speed skating. Ava, Claire, Rachel, and Jill race with Lucy, the red-haired main character of the story. As they skate around the oval track, they "each wear a helmet and skin suits to match with lots of protection in case there's a crash." It's easy to keep track of the friends as they race (and fall) because their helmets are numbered one to five. Children will learn about how the skaters turn around the tight corners and how they cheer one another one, even after the race is over. The main character is not the winner in this story but is a good sport and strong competitor. The book ends with five "Fast Facts" about the sport. Beside the words blade, skin suit, rink, and safety pads is a short definition and a color illustration from the book. VERDICT This follow-up to Lucy Tries Luge (Orca, 2015) will show young athletes the pros and cons of a sport that requires speed, balance, and courage.-Tanya Boudreau, Cold Lake Public Library, AB, Canada

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