55 pages • 1 hour read
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272
Novel • Fiction
Maine • Contemporary
2007
Middle grade
10-14 years
910L
In Summer Ball by Mike Lupica, 13-year-old basketball prodigy Danny Walker attends an elite summer camp called Right Way, where he must confront his insecurities about his height and prove himself against some of the nation's best young players. Danny faces various challenges, including strained relationships, bullying, and self-doubt, ultimately learning valuable lessons about perseverance and self-belief.
Adventurous
Playful
Inspirational
Exciting
Heartwarming
8,511 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Summer Ball by Mike Lupica has garnered praise for its engaging narrative and relatable protagonist, making it a hit among young readers, especially basketball enthusiasts. Critics commend Lupica's portrayal of teamwork and personal growth. However, some note that its plot can be predictable and characters stereotypical. Overall, it remains a compelling read for sports fans.
Readers aged 10-14 with a passion for basketball and underdog sports stories will enjoy Summer Ball by Mike Lupica. Fans of John Feinstein’s Last Shot or Kwame Alexander’s The Crossover will find this tale of friendship, competition, and personal growth captivating. Perfect for those who love dynamic characters and fast-paced plots.
8,511 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Richie Walker
Danny’s father, a former professional basketball player who stands as a model of hard work and perseverance despite being under six feet tall, sharing with Danny a strong moral code and a history of overcoming height-related challenges.
Ali Walker
Danny’s mother, an English teacher known for her warmth and resolve, who supports Danny’s personal growth alongside his father, emphasizing emotional resilience over athletic achievement.
Will Stoddard
Danny’s best friend and a teammate, whose humor and laid-back attitude often ease the tension and provide comic relief.
Ty Ross
Danny’s other best friend and basketball teammate, recognized for his exceptional basketball skills and quiet support for Danny.
Tess Hewitt
Danny’s tall, athletic friend with whom he shares a bond over sports, known for her intelligence, strength and no-nonsense attitude, playing a pivotal role in helping Danny maintain his self-confidence.
Tarik Meminger
A friendly and witty new acquaintance from the Bronx who quickly becomes an ally with a positive attitude and a unique slang vocabulary that amuses Danny and his friends.
Lamar Parrish
A highly talented but ill-mannered basketball prodigy known for his contentious personality, whose behavior often causes friction with others at camp.
Zach Fox
A young basketball talent from Connecticut who, initially shy and lacking confidence, finds comfort and courage through basketball and friendship with Danny.
Rasheed Hill
An exceptionally skilled basketball player with a calm demeanor, who commands respect on and off the court and shares a mutual understanding with Danny despite a rocky start.
Coach Ed Powers
A retired college basketball coach known for his rigid coaching style and grudge against Danny’s father, often undermining Danny’s confidence.
Nick Pinto
A college basketball player who befriends Danny, leading by example with integrity and encouragement for shorter basketball players.
Jeff LeBow
The camp director recognized for his efforts to maintain peace at the camp, often excusing questionable behavior in favor of reputation management.
Josh Cameron
A point guard for the Boston Celtics and the camp founder, admired by Danny for advocating fair play and fostering young talent.
272
Novel • Fiction
Maine • Contemporary
2007
Middle grade
10-14 years
910L
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