Book Brief
208
Novel • Fiction
Atlanta, Georgia • Contemporary
2021
Middle grade
8-12 years
790L
Super Short Summary
Fast Pitch by Nic Stone follows Shenice Lockwood, the captain of the first all-Black girls' team in the Dixie Youth Softball Association, on her mission to lead her team to their first championship title while uncovering the truth about a historical wrong done to her family. She balances her athletic goals with investigating a legacy of injustice, addressing themes such as racism, family legacy, and leadership. Themes surrounding racism and sexism in sports are present in the book.
Inspirational
Emotional
Heartwarming
Challenging
Hopeful
Reviews & Readership
2,901 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Nic Stone's Fast Pitch is praised for its engaging and inspirational story, vibrant characters, and powerful themes of perseverance and teamwork. Critics commend Stone's ability to tackle pertinent social issues within a sports narrative context. However, some note that the plot follows predictable patterns. Overall, it’s a spirited read for young audiences.
Who Should Read Fast Pitch?
Readers who enjoy a mix of sports and social themes will love Fast Pitch by Nic Stone. Ideal for middle grade fans of Ghost by Jason Reynolds or The Crossover by Kwame Alexander, this novel blends baseball with issues of racial identity and perseverance, appealing to those who appreciate dynamic characters and inspiring stories.
2,901 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
208
Novel • Fiction
Atlanta, Georgia • Contemporary
2021
Middle grade
8-12 years
790L
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