Take a photo of a barcode or cover
3.35 AVERAGE
3.35 AVERAGE
2.5! I appreciated the message and that the book is about a different type of sport, but I really had a hard time with jayla's voice. So, good to know about, but I don't know how often I'll recommend it.
Jayla was the most unlikeable character I've read in a while. The constant negativity and judgment, especially calling people "stupid" and "fat" and equating thinness to attractiveness, make this a book I would never recommend. It's flat out body shaming and not okay and Jayla learns virtually nothing, so it's not like these instances were used as teachable moments.
I liked how the boys and the girls were participating and the author made it seem it was pretty easy to learn- anyone could do it. It was clear how much joy double Dutch brings the author because it really came through in her writing.
I thought the characters were nicely developed, however something fell flat for me. I think the plot was a very surface level. I think some middle grade readers will enjoy this novel regardless.
I thought the characters were nicely developed, however something fell flat for me. I think the plot was a very surface level. I think some middle grade readers will enjoy this novel regardless.
inspiring
lighthearted
medium-paced
Jayla Jumps In is fairly average middle grade fare.
Jayla learns to respect her beloved uncle's new girlfriend, navigates her mother's diagnosis and finds a way to inspire her community to double dutch.
The emotional beats were not particularly complex. Not a lot happens outside of one contest the kids lose in a way that was obvious to see coming from the moment it was introduced. Jayla's double dutch team is a vehicle for Jayla, but not an actual team to get the reader invested in; the two kids on it are given names and not much else. The teacher who let them down was never taken to task or forced to a apologize.
It's decently written book that skims a little too shallow for my tastes. Still, it wasn't exactly a hardship to read.
Jayla learns to respect her beloved uncle's new girlfriend, navigates her mother's diagnosis and finds a way to inspire her community to double dutch.
The emotional beats were not particularly complex. Not a lot happens outside of one contest the kids lose in a way that was obvious to see coming from the moment it was introduced. Jayla's double dutch team is a vehicle for Jayla, but not an actual team to get the reader invested in; the two kids on it are given names and not much else. The teacher who let them down was never taken to task or forced to a apologize.
It's decently written book that skims a little too shallow for my tastes. Still, it wasn't exactly a hardship to read.
Very adorable MG, I love her family, it almost made me want to jump rope, before I remembered who I am and how coordinated I am.
lighthearted
medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
Character
Strong character development:
Yes