Just Skating By

Readers will root for the strong, spirited Bobi Jean as she skates towards self-improvement. . . With a graceful touch, this novel in verse for younger middle grade readers encourages empathy and resilience.
—Cordelia Jensen, author of Lilac and the Switchback

Alma Fullerton scores a hat trick with Just Skating By, a winning story that’s accessible, heartwarming, and humorous. Readers will root for Bobi Jean as she battles big feelings and emotional outbursts that often feel impossible to control, ultimately finding self-acceptance and growth with the help of her family and teachers.
—Jenn Bishop, author of Free Throws, Friendship, and Other Things We Fouled Up

Just Skating By is a hopeful story about Bobi Jean, a young girl trying to manage the anger that overwhelms her life. With the support of caring adults, Bobi Jean learns that self-control is a skill she can master, even when someone “pokes the bear” of her emotions. This story will be a comfort to any child who feels powerless over their feelings, and an inspiring reminder that with strategies and practice, we can choose our reactions to even the most provoking situations.
—Megan E. Freeman, NYT bestselling author of Alone, Away

Just Skating By is a fast-paced yet sensitive, honest story about one girl’s struggle to manage her anger. Highly recommended for anyone who has felt overwhelmed by emotions—and that’s most of us!
—Bobbie Pyron, award-winning author of Octopus Moon

Just Skating By is a beautiful book in verse. Coupled with helpful tools and lovely illustrations, it provides an honest portrayal of a child’s journey as she learns to manage her emotions.
—Jamie Sumner, author of the best-selling Roll with It series

This compassionate, highly accessible novel in verse provides an intimate look at how anger impacts one girl and her family–and what she can do to manage it. With exciting hockey scenes and a cast of loving and well-developed characters, Just Skating By is a balm for young middle grade readers who are grappling with their own big feelings.
—Laurie Morrison, author of Up for Air and Keeping Pace

For many young people, learning to control their emotions can be a difficult task. For Bobi Jean Spry it feels impossible. But maybe, if she can let people help her, if she can truly work hard, she can begin to tame the roaring bear that seems to live inside her. You’ll cheer for Bobi Jean as she struggles, stumbles, and finally succeeds, learning to control the anger that has controlled her for so long.
—Barbara Carroll Roberts, author of Nikki on the Line and The Metamorphosis of Bunny Baxter