Donna King (1)

Karen Leggett (Children's Literature)
The young tennis star forever pushed by her parents to be the best, the conflict between the time it takes to be the best and still have a life, the dirty tricks other young players use in their own striving to be the best--it is all here in a slim book perfect for young readers trying to find balance in their own lives. Carrie, a twelve-year-old girl in England, has tired of her parents’ constant pressure, even though it has helped her become a top tennis player in her age group. She fakes an injury to avoid a tough final match in a major competition and then meets the nasty competitor who won the match at a tennis camp in Florida. Carrie survives a long string of jokes and tricks to come out on top again, but this time she has regained not only the winning title but also a renewed appreciation for her sport, her parents, and the other priorities in her life. The writing is not memorable, but there is a lot of action, plenty of dialogue, and an important message. 2007, Kingfisher/Houghton Mifflin, $5.95. Ages 8 to 12.… (plus d'informations)

Janet L. Rose (Children's Literature)
Carli loves gymnastics but her parents are trying to make ends meet running a guest ranch and need her help. Besides working out at the gym, Carli trains horses, does ranch chores, helps her mother cook for guests, cleans the cabins and barely manages her schoolwork. Because of her talent she gets an opportunity to train under a former Olympic champion but her parents are dubious. Since her grades are slipping and she wastes one and a half hours going to school and back, they pull her out to be home schooled. Carli is devastated. It is her break from the routine at the ranch, her chance to participate in what she loves (gymnastics), and to socialize with friends. It takes a robbery and wrong accusations before her parents can recognize what is important to Carli and in the end they are her staunch supporters. This quick read is included in a series about girls excelling in different sports. 2008, Kingfisher, $5.95. Ages 8 to 12.… (plus d'informations)