A white mother and daughter are each facing challenges in this picture book that begins with the daughter getting ready to try out for the baseball team, while her mom is hoping to be hired to build a patio. As the story advances, the duo are shown in side by side images while single-word sentences describe what's happening. "Cap. Glove. Shoes." (girl) "Gloves. Goggles. Boots." (mom) describe what's happening as the two get dressed and ready to leave. This realistic look at what appears to be a single-parent, working-class family ends with success for both as the daughter pitches a winning game and the mother completes her construction job and they celebrate their success back home. (Ages 4-7)

In this empowering picture book perfect for young feminists, a gutsy baseball-playing girl and her bricklaying mom celebrate when love and hard work triumph over nerves.

A young pitcher steps up to the plate.

A hardworking mom interviews for her biggest job yet.

Girls and women aren't always welcome in the worlds of baseball and bricklaying. But with practice, the right gear, and a whole lot of determination, this intrepid mom and daughter thrive under pressure. Readers get to see their parallel narratives unfold in tandem, coming together at the end for a sweet reward: ice cream!

With fun, punchy writing and radiant illustrations, this touching story will be a hit for budding activists, kids who love sports, and the moms who cheer them on.


An American Library Association Notable Children’s Book
A Chicago Public Library Best Book of the Year
A Bulletin of the Center for Children's Books Blue Ribbon Book