The Sweet Spot

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  • ISBN: 9781682637746
  • Publication date: 05/05/2026
  • Page Count: 224
  • Size: 5 1/4 x 8"
  • Age Range: 8-12
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  • ISBN: 9781682637746
  • Publication date: 05/05/2026
  • Page Count: 224
  • Size: 5 1/4 x 8"
  • Age Range: 8-12
  • Price:
  • Age Range: 8-12
  • Price:
  • Age Range: 8-12
  • Price:
  • ISBN: 9781682639009
  • Publication date: 05/05/2026
  • Age Range: 8-12
  • Price:
  • Age Range: 8-12
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Description

A home run of a novel about baseball and belonging, from the acclaimed author of Half Moon Summer.

Twelve-year-old Trip’s summer to-do list has exactly one thing on it: win the local Little League championship. But then Dad unexpectedly deploys overseas just before the season starts. And Sam (short for Samantha) joins the team, which changes more than just the line-up.
Suddenly nothing feels right at home or on the field—the two places he’s always belonged.The season isn’t what he imagined, but Trip sticks with it. Until news about Dad leaves him convinced that he has to choose between family and baseball. Feeling more unsure than ever about who he’s supposed to be and where he belongs, Trip makes an impossible decision. But what if he doesn’t need to choose at all?Fast-paced and player-focused, The Sweet Spot highlights the challenges of being a passionate athlete and a compassionate person at the same time.

Author/Illustrator

Elaine Vickers

Author

Elaine Vickers is an award-winning author of picture books and middle grade and young adult novels. She grew up reading, running, and exploring in a small town in Utah. Several years and one PhD later, she found her way back to her hometown, where she spends her time writing, teaching college chemistry, and exploring with her family.

Reviews

“A thrilling and nuanced baseball story proving that determination and compassion can coexist.”
Kirkus Reviews (starred review)

“A strong choice for school and public libraries, this is a positive, engaging story for upper middle graders and a welcome addition to baseball fiction collections.”
School Library Journal (starred review)

“Measured prose balances pulse-pounding baseball scenes with a thoughtful exploration of family dynamics and personal growth, presenting an earnest story anchored by . . . a protagonist striving to do right by himself and others.”
Publishers Weekly

“Those looking for a heartfelt tale of growth will appreciate the tone. Suggest this to fans of Mike Lupica and Donna Barba Higuera’s Lupe Wong Won’t Dance (2020).”
Booklist

More Details

Books By Elaine Vickers