Roll into the fast-paced world of roller derby in the first book of The Derby Daredevils, a lively illustrated middle-grade series filled with friendship, teamwork, crushes, and confidence-building adventures.
Fifth-grader Kenzie, known around the rink as Kenzilla, has spent years dreaming about becoming a roller derby star alongside her best friend Shelly.
When Austin launches a brand-new junior roller derby league, Kenzie and Shelly finally get their chance. There's just one problem: they need a full five-player team, and tryouts are only days away. Recruiting teammates should be exciting, but Kenzie can't shake the feeling that everything is changing. Shelly seems determined to make friends with everyone, and Kenzie's secret crush suddenly becomes part of the team.
As the newly formed Derby Daredevils race toward their first big challenge, Kenzie must learn that being a great teammate means making room for new friendships, embracing change, and finding confidence both on and off the track. Filled with humor, heart, and energetic illustrations, this highly illustrated chapter book series is perfect for readers who love sports stories, graphic novel-style artwork, and strong friendships.
Ideal for fans of Roller Girl, Click, Smile, and illustrated middle-grade series that celebrate perseverance, teamwork, and self-discovery.
"This a great pick about fierce young ladies coming together through sports. The book has loads of action and plenty of heart." —Booklist, starred review
Also Available:
The Derby Daredevils: Shelly Struggles to Shine
The Derby Daredevils: Tomoko Takes the Lead
Praise
**STARRED REVIEW**Booklist
"This a great pick about fierce young ladies coming together through sports. The book has loads of action and plenty of heart, running with themes of friendship, being a good communicator, dealing with jealousy, and even a little sprinkle of how it feels to have a crush on someone you think is just the coolest person ever. Memorable characters and frequent illustrations bring the story to life and will make anyone want to get their derby on."
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**STARRED REVIEW**School Library Journal
"In her wonderful debut, Rosewater gives readers a look into the world of roller derby and what it entails, while depicting a relatable story of shifting young friendships... A great addition to juvenile sports fiction for school and public libraries. Perfect for fans of Victoria Jamieson’s Roller Girl, and readers seeking stories about sports-loving girls supporting each other."
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"A lighthearted celebration of life, friendship, and rolling with the punches."Kirkus Reviews
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"Relatable, empathic series debut introduces readers to the fast-paced sport of roller derby and hints at interesting backstories for Kenzie’s teammates."Publishers Weekly
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