Bump

Gr 3-7–A “bump” is the act of a wrestler hitting the mat. While this can appear painful to the audience, 12 year- old MJ knows what can really hurt. She has felt a whole lot of hurt this past year with grief, mean girls, and moving homes. The only thing MJ loves is professional wrestling and when she finds out her new neighbor is a former luchador and runs a wrestling school, she feels a sense of hope returning to her life. While she practices her new wrestling abilities, her pain begins to fade with the introduction of friendships and courage. Just as she is finding her place, an unknown enemy threatens to take down the school and her courage must be tested. MJ’s character will resonate with readers as she learns to be proud of herself, navigate her grief, and build new relationships. While parts of the story lack fluidity, the climax of the plot keeps readers on the edge of their seats, cheering on this young heroine.