I can't wait to add this one to my classroom library! My 5th and 6th grade readers will love the story of Evan Park, a rising 5th grader, who is just finishing physical therapy after breaking his wrist. He gets inspired to start training for an American Ninja-style competition to be held near him in Seattle at the end of the summer. However, while training, he reinjured his wrist and is forced to change his plans. His older sister, Lydia, gets him to redirect to a team mud obstacle course, and Team Park is created as the family starts training.

Readers will identify with Evan's on-again, off-again motivation as he faces various challenges. They will also be impressed with his skill with his younger sister, Georgia, a typically headstrong toddler. Most realistic would be the portrayal of the parents -- they aren't perfect! They squabble but experience growth along with the rest of the family.

Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the eARC. I'll be eagerly adding this to my shelves.

This was a cute and fun middle grade book, perfect for students who love Ninja Warrior (or are looking to find their "thing").

What I enjoyed:
- I think lower middle grade students would really enjoy this book. The stakes were compelling, and the characters were lovable. The protagonist, in particular, has a lot of reader appeal, as a "clumsy" student who is desperate to find a sport at which he can excel.
- While I liked the protagonist, Evan, I *loved* the character of his sister, Lydia. She was the voice of emotional intelligence, feminism, and sibling support throughout the book.

What didn't quite work for me:
- The writing was a little clunky and awkward at times, which I think might turn some older readers away.
- Evan's parents have a fairly toxic relationship, and while it was fairly clear how this impacted their children, I felt that the author tried to magically "solve" all of their problems with this big athletic event. I didn't love that. It felt a little unrealistic, and I worry that students who have unhealthy home environments might think that significant parental relationship challenges with communication, spending, gender roles, etc. can be solved by a well intentioned child.

Still, this is a book I would include in my classroom library and recommend to younger middle grade readers. Thank you to NetGalley for my advanced reader copy.

This was such a fun read that I will recommend to all kids who seek fast-paced, entertaining stories!

Cute, middle grade book about believing in yourself and working together as a family. I liked the relationship between Evan and his sisters although I thought some of Georgia’s behaviors and actions were advanced for a three and half year old.
I thought there could also be more developing of the story line of Evan’s dad and explanation to why he was so mean and critical of women.
Overall I enjoyed following Evan’s family to the Soiled Pants competition. Had a good message for pre teens.

Such a fun middle grade! Kids are going to be begging their parents to build extreme obstacle courses in their backyards after reading this book. A great story showing that everyone has strengths and weakness and that working together (and having fun!) can bring about the best result.