Review of "Bea Mullins Takes a Shot" by Ellen Ho
I can still remember the feeling of entering a new world through a book, especially when it revolves around characters that could easily remind me of my own awkward seventh-grade self. Ellen Ho’s "Bea Mullins Takes a Shot" beckoned to me with its premise—a tall, seemingly athletic girl who struggles to find her rhythm amid the world of sports. As someone who once nervously approached gym class, I couldn’t help but dive in.
At the heart of the story is Bea Mullins, a charmingly relatable seventh grader whose journey unfolds amidst the chaos of a flooded middle school gym, which serendipitously leads to the establishment of her school’s inaugural girls’ hockey team. With a nudge from her best friend Celia, Bea, who is more comfortable watching the game with her dad than actually playing it, laces up her brother’s borrowed skates and steps onto the ice. As someone who has often shied away from the spotlight, I found myself rooting for her right from the start, hoping she’d discover that there’s more to life than the fear of failure.
The novel beautifully weaves in themes of self-acceptance, resilience, and the importance of teamwork. Bea’s initial reluctance transforms into fascination as she begins to bond with her teammates (and perhaps a budding romance with Olympic hopeful Gabi), showcasing that growth often comes from stepping outside our comfort zones. The stakes are raised when the girls band together to confront not just their personal doubts but also the wider issue of inequitable pay in professional sports—how incredibly relevant and important for young readers to explore!
Ho’s writing style is brisk and engaging, pulling you into Bea’s world with delightful ease. The pacing allows for reflection while maintaining the book’s youthful energy, making it hard to put down. I particularly appreciated how the quirky mistakes and mishaps on the ice became the backdrop for Bea’s emotional growth rather than just embarrassing moments to avoid. They resonated with that universal feeling of being a ‘work in progress,’ where each fall can be a step toward something more profound.
One moment that struck me was when Bea confesses her fear of being seen while also yearning to be part of something bigger. It’s a sentiment I think many can relate to, especially during adolescence when the desire for acceptance often clashes with our individuality. Ellen Ho captures this struggle with humor and warmth, making Bea a character you can’t help but cheer for—flaws and all.
"Bea Mullins Takes a Shot" is a gem of a book that will resonate with middle graders navigating the complexities of friendship, self-discovery, and the thrilling yet intimidating world of sports. Whether you’re a hockey fan or someone who simply enjoys heartfelt stories about personal growth, this novel has something to offer.
By the end of Bea’s journey, I found myself reflecting on my own path—reminded that sometimes, taking a shot at something, whether it’s a new sport or letting someone in, can lead to the most beautiful experiences. Readers looking for a story filled with relatable awkwardness, budding romance, and an empowering message about equity will find just what they’re looking for here. Grab your skates (or a cozy blanket) and get ready for a heartfelt ride with Bea!
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