Roller Girl by Victoria Jamieson is widely praised for its engaging storytelling and relatable protagonist. The graphic novel effectively captures the challenges of growing up and finding one's passion. It excels in its vibrant illustrations and dynamic depiction of roller derby. Readers appreciate its message of perseverance and friendship. Some, however, find the plot predictable. Overall, it's a heartfelt and inspiring read.

A reader who would enjoy Roller Girl by Victoria Jamieson is typically a middle-grade student interested in stories about friendship, personal growth, and sports. Fans of Smile by Raina Telgemeier and El Deafo by Cece Bell, who appreciate graphic novels with strong, relatable characters, will find this book appealing.

Roller Girl by Victoria Jamieson follows Astrid, a young girl who becomes captivated by roller derby and decides to attend a summer camp focused on the sport. When her best friend Nicole opts for ballet camp instead, Astrid faces challenges in both her new sport and her friendships. Through persistence and support from new friends like Zoey, Astrid learns about resilience, friendship, and self-discovery.

Inspirational / Heartwarming / Humorous / Playful

- Roller Girl by Victoria Jamieson was awarded a Newbery Honor in 2016, recognizing it as one of the most distinguished American children's books of the year.
- The book has been praised for its authentic portrayal of the roller derby community, a sport in which the author herself participated before writing the novel.
- Victoria Jamieson not only wrote but also illustrated Roller Girl, showcasing her skills in both storytelling and visual art.

**Astrid**  
A 12-year-old girl with dark, messy hair and baggy clothes, who embarks on a personal journey as she discovers and learns roller derby, navigating changes in friendships and developing new skills and self-awareness.

**Zoey**  
Astrid’s new friend from the roller derby team, known for her vibrant energy and love for Broadway, who helps Astrid establish her new identity by encouraging her to dye her hair and join the sport.

**Nicole**  
Astrid's best friend since first grade, who shares an interest in ballet, leading to their drifting apart as she pursues new friendships and activities away from roller derby.

**Astrid’s Mom**  
A university librarian who supports her daughter’s growth and passion for roller derby despite tight finances, exemplifying a nurturing and culturally enriching influence on Astrid’s life.

**Heidi Go Seek**  
The dedicated roller derby coach who pushes Astrid and her team to develop their skills while providing guidance and support, playing a significant role in Astrid’s transformation.

**Rainbow Bite**  
A star jammer for the Rose City Rollers and Astrid’s role model, whose confidence and resilience inspire Astrid to pursue roller derby and develop her own strength and courage.

**Rachel**  
The antagonist of the story, known for bullying Astrid from a young age, who symbolically represents the challenges Astrid must overcome as she navigates her own personal growth.

Victoria Jamieson

Middle grade

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Fiction

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Overview

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Roller Girl Summary and Study Guide

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Chapters 1-4

Roller Girl Chapters 1-4 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 5-8

Roller Girl Chapters 5-8 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 9-12

Roller Girl Chapters 9-12 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 13-16

Roller Girl Chapters 13-16 Summary & Analysis

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Character Analysis

Roller Girl Character Analysis

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Themes

Roller Girl Themes

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Roller Girl Symbols & Motifs

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Important Quotes

Roller Girl Important Quotes

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Essay Topics

Roller Girl Essay Topics

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Introduction

Roller Girl Teacher Introduction

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Roller Girl Reading Context

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Roller Girl Reading Questions & Paired Texts

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Roller Girl Discussion/Analysis Prompt

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Roller Girl Essay Questions

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Roller Girl Exam Answer Key

Roller Girl

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