Deibert, Emily. Bea Mullins Takes a Shot. Random House, 02/2025. 323pp. Fiction. Trade $17.99. 978-0-593-80889-4. GRADES 5–8. HIGH ADDITIONAL.
Begrudgingly, Bea joins the new girls’ hockey team at her Toronto area middle school. While navigating how to skate and play, she’s also figuring out new friendships (hopefully without losing her best friend) and maybe even a romantic interest in one of the co-captains. While the story contains a lot of hockey terms and action, there are also funny and exhilarating interactions between the girls, their coach, and even their principal. The quick-paced storyline engages readers and provides hope that Bea, portrayed as white in the cover art, has learned to trust herself and those around her.
Joshua Rees—Daly City Public Library