Gold Medal Winter

Reviewed by: Jan Hamilton - Long Creek Center, S. Portland, Southern Maine Library District

Review Date: December 30, 2014

Review

When Esperanza (Espi) becomes the student of a retired Olympic skater her life begins to spiral toward her goal of competing in the winter Olympics. Not only does Coach Chen take Espi as a scholarship student but she provides a private skating rink for their sessions. The focus of the story is on Espi making the winter team and her interactions within the US Skating Team as well as with her family and supporters. A romantic triangle provides some intrigue but it is Espi’s relationship with her mother and her reaction to all the media coverage that makes this title strong.

Having had a skater in the family I felt the story line was plausible but the circumstances were extraordinary. Girls who compete in any sport and those who love to watch skating or dance will appreciate this title.

Overall Book Score: good