• Age: 10 to 13
• Grade: 3

"A tidy tale, villain- and (unusually, these days) bully-free, with clear but not heavy-handed game and life coaching." — Kirkus Reviews
This girls’ basketball story deals with the conflict between family caregiving responsibilities and extra-curricular sports that some kids, particularly girls, often face. Jo loves playing basketball in gym class, and she is surprised when she makes the school team. Because she has to babysit her younger brother, she’s afraid her mom will make her give up her place on the team, so instead, Jo hatches a plan to have a neighbour secretly babysit so she can play. But the deception and secrets start getting to her after a few close calls. While Jo shows initiative and problem-solving skills both on and off the court, will her mom see it that way when she’s found out?

VALERIE PANKRATZ FROESE grew up playing sports and started coaching at a young age. Her love of coaching drew her to a career in teaching, where she taught both elementary and middle school. Valerie lives in Winnipeg, Manitoba.

Valerie Pankratz Froese's profile page

Bank Shot is a fast-paced read for reluctant readers or basketball fans.

CM Review of Materials

A tidy tale, villain- and (unusually, these days) bully-free, with clear but not heavy-handed game and life coaching.

Kirkus Reviews