Jake Maddox Libri

Thirteen-year-old Devante Briggs loves basketball, but now he is just the sixth man off the bench for his school team, putting up with the snide remarks of some of the other players--until an outbreak of food poisoning gives him his chance to show off his skills.

"When they were younger, Anya and her big sister, Marina, were an unbeatable catcher and pitcher duo on their slow-pitch softball team. But now, as Anya gets ready to join Marina on the U14 fast-pitch squad, things are different. Anya can't stand her sister's know-it-all attitude and ignores every piece of advice. Meanwhile, Marina is frustrated because Anya doesn't seem to be taking the game seriously. Will the two sisters be able to put aside their fast-pitch feud and work together for the win?"--Provided by publisher

For twelve-year-old Autumn Holloway, a week at Blazing Hoops wheelchair basketball camp is a dream come true. She has high hopes that it will be her ticket to making friends and connections in the adaptive sports community. But Autumn struggles to fit in with her wealthier fellow campers. To make matters worse, she has to use a borrowed basketball wheelchair that keeps needing repairs. It takes a chance encounter to help Autumn realize that, no matter where she's from or how she speaks, she belongs at camp - and on the court - just as much as anyone else.

Cameron believes his move to an undisciplined, small-town team will provide the excuse he needs to quit playing soccer, but perhaps this new team is exactly what he needs to make the sport fun again.

Thirteen-year-old Aniyah's mother and all of her aunts went to historically Black universities and were drill and step team members, but Aniyah does not like performing and has avoided stepping, until her friend Stacy convinces her that now they are entering eighth grade they should both join the school step club which does not compete; Aniyah discovers that stepping can be fun--but when the club decides to enter a competition all of Aniyah's fears come back and she wants to quit.

Benny Krueger loves playing pond hockey with his friends on the lake by his home. SO when his parents announce that they're have to move, it breaks his heart. Even worse, Benny's older sister, loves to embarrass him at the rink. When he learns about a pond hockey tournament being held near his house, he rallies his friends to take on his sister's team. Will Benny finally defeat his sister and gain confidence in his own skills on the ice?

Layla loves playing basketball, especially with her best friend, Danika. Now, after spending most of the summer getting ready for trials, Layla is eager to move from substitute player to becoming one of the starting five. When trials finally arrive, Layla not only makes the first team but she's also chosen to be the team captain. All of her friends and teammates are excited for her. All, that is, except Danika who is jealous of her friend's success. Layla soon discovers that being both team captain and best friends with Danika is no easy task. Can Layla be a good team captain and a good friend?

Grace loves being on her school's swimming team. She enjoys hanging out with her teammates and making new friends. But when Chloe joins the relay team, she and Grace clash. Grace tries several ways to be friends with Chloe but fails every time. Then at a big swim meet, Chloe blames Grace for getting their team disqualified. Grace can't believe it. She doesn't understand why Chloe is so hostile toward her. Will the two girls learn to look past their differences and work together for the good of the whole team?

After only ever playing pick-up games, Ana Ramirez is excited to attend a basketball summer camp where she'll play on a real team with real teammates. But when the coach says they'll use something called zone defense, the shooting guard feels totally lost and starts to doubt her skills. Can Ana get out of her comfort zone and ask for help? Combining a dramatic sports story with a dynamic full-color comic format, this Jake Maddox Graphic Novel is sure to be a win for any young reader.

Jae Cho does not win games very often, but when her older brother leaves his Castle Crusadors game open she starts playing and soon becomes fascinated by the strategy involved--until she accidently enters an online esports competition in his name, and discovers that her brother now expects her to compete for real.

Mia Hernandez’s gymnastics team is nervous about the upcoming season. However, they’re encouraged when their new coach tells them that she was once a gymnast for their longtime rivals. The coach’s knowledge will be a great advantage during the season. But strange things begin to happen at the competitions. The wrong music is played during some girls’ floor exercises. Itching powder ends up in one team’s chalk. At another meet, the parallel bars fall apart while a competitor performs her routine. Someone is taking dangerous risks to cheat at the competitions. But who could it be, and why? Follow along as Mia discovers the shocking truth behind who’s been sabotaging the competition during the gymnastics season in this Jake Maddox JV Mystery.

When a local esports team asks Valentina to join them for an upcoming tournament she realizes she needs to learn teamwork to succeed.

"Samira has never been the best gymnast on her team, but she has always worked hard and loved what she was doing; but when a torn rotator cuff sidelines her and six months later her shoulder just does not seem to feel right--she discovers snowboarding, a whole new world of speed and excitement opens up before her, and Samira has to decide which sport to commit to."--Publisher's description.

Determined to be a great baseball player like others in his family, Fernando needs their help to regain his confidence after his coach tells him to steal a base and he fails.

Tanner struggles to adjust to his new home, feeling disconnected from his friends who remain in his old city. His passion for skateboarding clashes with the local residents, who are displeased with his presence and activities. This conflict highlights Tanner's sense of isolation and the challenges he faces in finding his place in an unfriendly environment.

Until now, Layla has balanced her school work and volleyball easily enough. At high school, though, academic expectations are tougher. When Layla's dedication to volleyball puts her maths test results at risk, her chances of making the school team next year are on the line. Can she find a way to ace her classes like she does on the court?

Sondra and her best friend, Jonathan, have finally saved up enough money to attend the summer camp of their dreams - Camp Vert. In order to fit in at the competitive skateboarding camp, the two friends decide to learn a challenging trick, the frontside 180 heelflip. When the friends' cabins go up against one another in competition, will they both master the trick? And more importantly, will they stay friends in the middle of the rivalry?

Upset over her parents' divorce and her subsequent move to Minnesota, Maisie joins a curling team and begins to have a change of heart.

Rosie loves nothing more than spending her summers surfing while staying with her Aunt Hazel in Australia. But this summer, her cousin Flora is coming to visit, too, and Aunt Hazel wants Rosie to teach Flora how to surf. Trouble is, Flora has a history of being mean to Rosie, and it doesn't take long to figure out that Flora hasn't changed one bit. Can Rosie set aside her hard feelings and teach her cousin to ride the waves? Or will this shake-up to Rosie's summer of surfing lead to a wicked wipeout?

Includes three previously published graphic basketball stories, where young teens confront problems and discover themselves through sports.

Robyn Ray is a young hockey player with lots of speed and one big problem--she can't seem to make a goal. Can her formerly famous hockey star grandpa help her build the skills she needs to score? And will her team come together when it matters most?

Molly's dream of taking riding lessons becomes a reality when a new stable opens in town, but she faces teasing from her classmates. As she navigates the challenges of pursuing her passion, she must find ways to maintain her confidence and stay true to herself amidst the negativity. This story explores themes of resilience, self-acceptance, and the importance of following one's dreams despite external pressures.

Nita and Sohail are thrilled when they win scholarships to attend the Alaska Young Explorers program. Both kids could use the prize money to help their families and set out to compete as hard as they can. But things take a turn when they're paired up on an expedition. The two make a misstep while hiking down a glacier and find themselves in dangerous territory. Nita and Sohail will have to depend on each other and learn to work together...if they want to survive the Alaskan wilderness.

Jasmine Lopez and her brother Arjun love exploring the coral reefs around Fiji, where their marine biologist parents are stationed. Jasmine, already a certified scuba diver, dreams of following in her parents' footsteps and wants to help Arjun do the same.

Lew loves playing on his community center's basketball team. He is shocked when he learns that the community center might be shutting down, jeopardizing the future of the team. With no school teams available to them, Lew and his friends worry they won't get to compete in basketball at all. Can Lew and his teammates find a way to keep the center open and give their team the opportunity to win big on their home court?

Mina is a talented figure skater who is looking forward to trying the new challenge of pairs skating, but with shy boy Luke, she is beginning to have second thoughts, so they will have to overcome their trust issues to become a successful team

"Davalyn The Daredevil Hart may be a new rider in the sport of wheelchair motocross, but this adrenaline junkie is ready to push herself. When she gets a new WCMX chair designed to take a beating at the skate park, she turns her stunts up to the next level. But everything comes to a grinding halt when she attempts a tough trick and takes a hard fall. Now her confidence is rattled. Can she find the courage to face the rails again and nail her special move at the upcoming WCMX Extreme Games competition?"--Provided by publisher

"Everyone on the Bader Ginsburg Middle School Badgers is looking forward to the playoffs and a chance to win back the Supreme Bowl trophy from the Wellstone Middle School Warriors--but somebody has stolen the trophy, and evidence points to one of the Badgers, so teammates Kenny Hu and Romeo Russell set out to clear their friend and discover the truth."--Provided by publisher.

Harper's love for parkour drives her to navigate obstacles with flair, but the cancellation of a major competition leaves her seeking new opportunities. Joining a gymnastics team presents a challenge: will she embrace this new sport with the same enthusiasm? This graphic novel blends thrilling sports narratives with vibrant illustrations, exploring themes of sportsmanship and teamwork. Engaging back matter, including comprehension questions and writing prompts, enriches the reading experience for young sports fans.

Struggling with nerves after an injury, Nadia faces the challenge of returning to competition on the balance beam. As she grapples with self-doubt and the pressure of her competitor's harsh remarks, she must rediscover her confidence and skills. The story explores themes of resilience and overcoming obstacles, highlighting Nadia's journey to find her balance both physically and mentally in the competitive world of gymnastics.

When Mariana and her new friend, Selena, try to play some basketball at a local court, they’re challenged to a game by two older girls. If Mariana and Selena win, they get to use the court. But if the older girls win, they get Selena’s special autographed jersey. Unfortunately, things go badly and the younger girls lose the bet—and the jersey. However, they soon come up with a plan. Although some of Mariana’s skills are lacking, she’s great at shooting hoops. Will the friends succeed in their hoops hustle to get back Selena’s special jersey?

Fourteen-year old Aarash is nervous to start his first year at Freemont Central High School. Though his family has lived in the country since he was eight years old, Aarash still feels like an outsider. Then an older friend suggests Aarash join the schools wrestling team. Aarash is nervous but tries out anyway and is excited to make the team. But a bully on the mat makes Aarash rethink everything. Can he see his commitment through? Or will taking it to the mat cost more than he's willing to sacrifice?

Michael's inability to catch the ball overshadows his wide receiver speed, but thanks to his teammates' observations and a visit to the doctor, Michael soon earns his triple threat status.

During a football game star running back Harris Weathers takes a jarring hit and narrowly escapes injury, but after several days he is still rattled, leaving him with a tough decision--quit football or find a way to stay safe while playing the game he loves.

At just 13, Alexis faces the challenge of being the youngest member of the varsity tennis team, a source of excitement quickly overshadowed by jealousy from older teammates. As they target her to sabotage her experience, Alexis must navigate the pressures of competition and peer dynamics. The story explores themes of resilience, self-confidence, and the struggle to maintain one's place in a competitive environment. Will she rise above the negativity and prove her worth, or will the older girls' tactics break her spirit?

The story revolves around the rivalry and unexpected camaraderie between Riley and Bernie, the town's top skater. After Bernie saves Riley from bullies but later ignores him, tension builds as they prepare for the biggest skateboarding contest. When Bernie's board breaks during the competition, Riley faces a moral dilemma: assist his rival or seize the opportunity for victory. Themes of friendship, competition, and integrity are explored as both skaters navigate their relationship and the challenges of the contest.

Tanisha Carter can't believe her luck when she finds out her favorite extreme obstacle course challenge is coming to her town. She needs a partner to compete, so her video game pal, Derek, agrees to team up with her. Derek is big for his age, but strong, and Tanisha is sure their combination of speed and strength will make for a winning team. But when training reveals Tanisha's fear of heights, the pair realizes they have more than one obstacle to overcome in this extreme challenge.

Eager to follow in his father's footsteps, Ramon Hill wants nothing more than to be a starting attacker on his lacrosse team. But his dreams don't go as planned, and he's moved to a different position. Playing as a midfielder lets Ramon put his skills and talent to best use, but he can't help but feel disappointed. Will his new position lead to bigger and better things for him and his team?

"When twins Lydia and Marco are approached to be on their dance studio's jazz team, Lydia is thrilled. She and Marco both love to dance and used to have fun dancing together as kids. But lately it seems their relationship has grown more distant. Lydia can't wait to dance with her brother again, but Marco is worried. He's used to hip-hop and will be the only boy on the team. And when bullies start mocking Marco for doing girl dances it could spell trouble for the whole team."--Publisher

Malcolm loves baseball and science, but his teammates are not always pleased with the ideas he comes up with--until he uses science to come up with a winning pitch, the knuckleball.

New-kid Javier Moreno makes a big splash on the football pitch when a video of his amazing goal goes viral. But now the fame is going to his head, and he's hogging the ball and showing off. Will Javi's solo act ruin the team's chances at making the championships? Dynamic full-colour comic artwork sets the stage for this exciting Graphic Novel, a winning choice for any young reader.

Struggling with self-confidence, Marissa feels out of place in the world of ballet due to her height and perceived clumsiness. Despite her passion for dance, she hesitates to pursue her dreams, particularly the coveted role of the Rose Fairy. However, an unexpected supporter sees her potential and encourages her to embrace her unique qualities, suggesting that she might be perfect for the role after all. This story explores themes of self-acceptance and the importance of believing in oneself.

The story revolves around Tess's return to Winterfall for a snowboarding competition and to surprise her best friends, Ana and Sofie. While Ana welcomes her back with open arms, Sofie's odd behavior raises questions about their friendship. As Tess navigates the dynamics of their reunion, underlying tensions and unresolved issues surface, complicating their once-close bond.

Suzy has just joined the high school gymnastics team so she is crushed when she gets injured and can't practise or compete. Meanwhile her mother wishes she wouldn't participate in gymnastics and would focus her efforts on her piano playing instead. Facing pressures from her team, her coach and her mother, Suzy has to take charge of her own destiny. Can she make a comeback in time to help her team defeat its biggest rival?

Nimo Mohamed has made the cross-country team and she's determined to keep up with the older girls. So she's training harder than ever, maybe too hard. Soon the runner's grades at school are tumbling, her running times are slipping and her body is completely exhausted. Can Nimo learn to pace herself and stop this running overload? With its high-stakes sports story with an exciting full-colour comic format, this Graphic Novel is a winner for young readers.

Now at different schools, Ricky and Anthony's friendship is tested when they find themselves on opposing basketball teams, leaving Ricky to decide whether he is willing to let his new team down if it means making his best friend happy.

Soon-to-be eighth graders and close friends Robert, Maryam, and Kylie are excited to be at sleepaway cheer camp this summer, even after they find out that their cabin is supposed to be haunted; ghost stories are fine, but than the pranks start, and the accusations start flying--Robert is the only one in the whole cabin who has not been pranked, so he figures that he better figure out who is responsible before he gets the blame.

When DeSean Mitchell makes an embarrassing mistake while showboating in the end zone, he ends up costing his football team the game. In the final play, he's tackled and lies on the field in defeat. A teammate assumes he is hurt, and rather than face the shame of his mistake, DeSean fakes an injury. How long will DeSean let the deception go on?

Darius Livingston is the starting running back for the seventh-grade football team, but he dreams of playing quarterback. When the team is forced to forfeit the rest of its season, Darius and his teammates get the chance to play with the eighth graders. Darius is sure this is his chance to prove he can throw the ball and be a great quarterback. But can Darius show off his skills and still be a team player?

Eight-grader Bristol loves snowboarding, but her double vision makes doing the tricks challenging, and the Paralympic Committee does not recognize her particular disability so her opportunities for competition are limited--she would love to participate in the PowderX Games, but her parents announce that to do that she must do well on an upcoming exam.

Includes discussion questions, writing prompts, and information about in-line speed skating.

"For the past two years, since attending a Choctaw Nation powwow with his family, thirteen-year-old Tobias has secretly been teaching himself how to hoop dance, but once his secret gets out, he must decide if he wants to share his dancing at the spring talent show."--

"Shot put thrower Sena is determined to solve the mystery of the track and field team's missing field equipment, stolen uniforms, and blackmail notes to the assistant coach, Josh."--Provided by publisher.

"Jayden is only one stolen base away from the school record, when he is suddenly kicked off the team, accused of cheating on a math test, and the "proof" is found in his locker; apparently someone is trying to prevent him from setting the record by framing him, and he enlists the help of Lindsey, the school reporter, to gather clues and figure out which of his teammates has it in for him--and do it before the final game."--Provided by publisher.

Luis "Lucky" Martinez is the new kid on River Valley Junior High's JV soccer team. But his goalie skills aren't the only thing being tested. When a school talent show opens for auditions, Luis will find out if he's inherited his abuela's musical skills. Can Luis juggle both, or will he have to choose which of his passions to save: soccer or music?

For the past three years twelve-year-old Louise and her adopted brother Otto have played on the same hockey team, and Lou is used to being one of the best centers on the team; but when their coach's reserve unit is called up, his replacement puts his own son at center and relegates Lou to the bench--and when his son's arrogance starts costing them goals Lou and the team must convince him that girls can be hockey stars too.

Seventh-grader Gabriella Carter, goalie for Stratford Park Middle School, was given the treasured medal of professional soccer star Shaune Covington to hold for a week, but now it has disappeared from her backpack; clearly somebody took it, and it is up to Gabriella and her friends to gather clues, check alibis, and figure out who took the precious medal--and why.

Marnie's journey of self-discovery unfolds as she trains her dog, Koda, for a dog dancing competition. Despite Koda's talent, Marnie struggles with her own confidence. The story explores themes of overcoming insecurities and the bond between a girl and her dog. Presented in a vibrant graphic novel format, it combines thrilling sports narratives with engaging visuals. The book also includes supportive back matter featuring comprehension questions, writing prompts, and non-fiction sports information, enhancing the reading experience for young sports enthusiasts.

Quinn O'Neill struggles with commitment, earning the nickname "Quitt" due to his tendency to abandon sports. When he joins the school diving team, doubts from teammates loom, especially after a bike accident sidelines him. The story explores themes of perseverance and self-belief as Quinn faces his fears and strives to contribute to his team's success. Presented in a vibrant graphic novel format, the narrative combines thrilling sports action with supportive educational materials, encouraging young readers to engage with the story and improve their skills.

Baxter Reilly has always felt at home in the water. And the school swimming team has been his place of refuge, especially over the past few months. Instead of dealing with his home life, Baxter has devoted himself to the swimming team and their 4x400 freestyle. But how can he support a team when his life is so adrift?

But after a bad fall and injury during practice, getting back on the beam is harder than she thought. When she does come back after recovering, Sofia is consumed with fear and anxiety related to her fall, emotions her coach doesn't seem to recognize. Can Sofia overcome her fear and trauma to make it back on the beam?

Devon has played basketball his whole life, and he's great at it, so great, in fact, that his dad, team and community can't imagine him doing anything else. So when he sees Jamal, a Yemeni refugee and new kid at school, doing BMX tricks on his bike one day he's intrigued. Can Devon keep his newfound love of BMX under wraps?

Mira Ravi is the first-seed singles star on Hilltop Middle School's tennis team, but her life off the court is a much harder match to win. Mira juggles tough responsibilities at home, in school and with her team, but she also has a secret that threatens the balance. Can Mira be honest about her struggles and still play the sport she loves?

When DeSean Mitchell makes an embarrassing mistake while showboating in the end zone, he ends up costing his American football team the game. In the final play, hes tackled and lies on the field in defeat. A teammate assumes he is hurt, and rather than face the shame of his mistake, DeSean fakes an injury. How long will DeSean let the deception go on?

It's never easy to be the new kid in school -- or on the basketball team. But when Yasmin Jones faces racism from one of her new teammates, she insists on dealing with it on her own. Her solution is to prove to her new team that she is a star player. As pressure builds, though, Yasmin's game suffers. How can Yasmin address her problems on and off the court?

Karate is the most important thing in Aliyah's life. It allows her to fight - and she's good at that. It also makes her feel like a winner. Nothing is more important to Aliyah than taking down an opponent, especially if it's her main rival, Suma. Things soon change with the arrival of a new student, Zoya, who also happens to be Suma's little sister. Aliyah sees something familiar in Zoya - an anger and aggression that reminds Aliyah of herself. Upon the request of Suma, and with the approval of the sensei, Aliyah agrees to train Zoya. Through their training, she helps Zoya control her anger but also manages to learn a valuable lesson of her own - winning isn't everything.

Nate, Selena, Tyson, and Alicia are ready for summer. But when Nate convinces everyone to join a white water rafting race, the group's teamwork is put to the test. Will these four friends make it past the finish line? Or will their competitive nature sink their chances?

Toby Brandt would rather be hitting jump shots than doing chores on his Grandpa's farm. But he's about to learn a new appreciation for the great outdoors. His cousin Chloe and her friends soon convince Toby to join them on their nature runs. Before long, he learns to enjoy running with them through the woods and navigating their homemade obstacle course. However, when they tell Toby about the upcoming Wild Run, he doesn't want to risk getting hurt and letting down his friends. Will Toby overcome his fears and help his team win the biggest, sloppiest mud race around?

Twelve-year-old Carly has recently recovered from an illness and to celebrate, Carly, her older brother, Ajay, and her dad go on a climbing trip in the Rocky Mountains. Even though Carly tries to convince her family she is one hundred per cent better, her troubling bouts of tiredness give her away. When an unexpected injury forces Carly and Ajay back down the mountain, Carly's health is put to the ultimate test.

Mia and Deshawn can't wait to get to Action World. So when their parents make a pit stop at Maximum Caverns to go cave spelunking, the two siblings are less than excited. Things go from bad to worse when an accident takes Mia, Deshawn and their guide, Raven, off their trail and onto an advanced route. Mia and Deshawn will have to dig deep and work together to make it out of the caves.

Star quarterback Alex Summers has always played American football with his best friend, Oscar. So when Oscar suddenly leaves the team to join the school play, Alex feels blindsided and betrayed. Now Alex's game is suffering as the pressure builds to make things right with his friend. Can the two boys ever recover from their friendship fumble?

Will Pastora is entering his first snowboard race at the ski resort where he's on holiday. Instead of signing up as a beginner -- where he belongs -- he lies about his experience and registers for a higher level of competition. But when he faces his first black-diamond mountain, Will learns that the high level isn't just about tougher competition.

After a big growth spurt, dancer Mercy Smyth feels completely out of step. It's going to take a lot of extra work and money that Mercy doesn't have to bring her skills back to competition level. Will Mercy ever feel graceful again?

Figure skater Eva Chen is looking forward to sharing her latest routine. But when a fall results in concussion, Eva is forced to take time off the ice. To make matters worse, Eva overhears some fellow skaters making fun of her song. Will Eva find the strength to return to the ice despite her setbacks?

On a summer holiday with his family, Marlon Keys is about to hike the Appalachian Trail in the USA. But when Marlon accidentally gets separated from the group on the hike, his boring holiday becomes an exercise in survival. Can Marlon find his way back to his family and camp safely, or will he remain lost on the trail?

Zach Thompson can't believe his family can finally afford to send him to the elite ice hockey camp of his dreams. But even before he hits the rink, Zach feels iced out by his older teammates. They mock the new kid's hand-me-down gear and hog the puck during practice. Can Zach show some hustle and be the leader his team needs to take the camp tournament by storm? With plenty of play-by-play action and extra back matter materials including bonus ice hockey facts, this sport adventure story is sure to be a hit with any young athlete.

Anthony Duran has been Ricky Lau's best friend and basketball buddy since they were little. But now that Ricky has moved schools, the boys find themselves on different school basketball teams. With few new friends, Ricky still wants to shoot hoops with his best bud. Anthony, on the other hand, doesn't want to practise with an opponent. Ricky is willing to do whatever it takes to get his friend back. But what if that means letting his new team down?

Hank Watson enjoys helping his basketball team win big games. However, his true passion is cooking. Hank doesn't tell his team that he likes to cook because he's afraid they'll make fun of him. When an opportunity arises to meet celebrity chef Brenton Spooner, Hank jumps at the chance. But while practising a difficult dish to impress his idol, he accidentally burns his hand. The injury isn't serious, but it affects his performance both on the court and in the kitchen. Despite the setback, Hank is determined to help his team achieve victory in the big game and meet his cooking hero in the process

Luis 'Lucky' Martinez is the new kid on River Valley Junior High School's football team. But his goalie skills aren't the only thing being tested. When a school talent show opens for auditions, Luis will find out if he's inherited his grandmother's musical skills. Can Luis juggle both, or will he have to choose which of his passions to save: football or music?