55 pages 1 hour read

Mike Lupica

Summer Ball

Fiction | Novel | Middle Grade | Published in 2007

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Before You Read

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Super Short Summary

In Summer Ball by Mike Lupica, 13-year-old basketball prodigy Danny Walker attends an elite summer camp called Right Way, where he must confront his insecurities about his height and prove himself against some of the nation's best young players. Danny faces various challenges, including strained relationships, bullying, and self-doubt, ultimately learning valuable lessons about perseverance and self-belief.

Reviews & Readership

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Review Roundup

Summer Ball by Mike Lupica has garnered praise for its engaging narrative and relatable protagonist, making it a hit among young readers, especially basketball enthusiasts. Critics commend Lupica's portrayal of teamwork and personal growth. However, some note that its plot can be predictable and characters stereotypical. Overall, it remains a compelling read for sports fans.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Summer Ball?

Readers aged 10-14 with a passion for basketball and underdog sports stories will enjoy Summer Ball by Mike Lupica. Fans of John Feinstein’s Last Shot or Kwame Alexander’s The Crossover will find this tale of friendship, competition, and personal growth captivating. Perfect for those who love dynamic characters and fast-paced plots.

RecommendedReading Age

10-14years

Lexile Level

910L

Book Details

Themes

Relationships: Friendship

Natural World: Appearance & Reality

Genre

Realistic Fiction

Children's Literature