About BC Books Online
BC Books Online was created for anyone interested in BC-published books, and with librarians especially in mind. We'd like to make it easy for library staff to learn about books from BC publishers - both new releases and backlist titles - so you can inform your patrons and keep your collections up to date.
Our site features print books and ebooks - both new releases and backlist titles - all of which are available to order through regular trade channels. Browse our subject categories to find books of interest or create and export lists by category to cross-reference with your library's current collection.
A quick tip: When reviewing the "Browse by Category" listings, please note that these are based on standardized BISAC Subject Codes supplied by the books' publishers. You will find additional selections, grouped by theme or region, in our "BC Reading Lists."
Description
When Mitch Harding makes an impulse buy, he really goes big.
Mitch spends his entire savings on a wrecked dirt bike after witnessing a rider crash it at an Endurocross race. He is now the proud owner of a used bike, one that needs a lot of work. With the help of his uncle, an ex-pro rider, and new friend Kelsey, a championship rider herself, they get the bike up and running. But a bet with the previous owner threatens to strip Mitch of his hard-earned vehicle. Whoever wins the next race gets to keep the bike. Mitch is determined to win. But partway through the race he discovers Kelsey lying on the trail, her bike on its side. With serious injuries and no way to get help, Kelsey has no choice but to ride out. But as Mitch and Kelsey push to get off the mountain, the path to safety gets more complicated.
This short novel is a high-interest, low-reading level book for middle-grade readers who are building reading skills, want a quick read or say they don’t like to read!
Contributor Notes
Michele Martin Bossley is the author of numerous books for young people, including Jumper and Kicker in the Orca Sports series. When not writing, she can be found watching her four sons competing in dirt-bike racing and many other sports. She lives in Calgary.
Recommended Age, Grade, and Reading Levels
- Age:
- 9 to 12
- Grade:
- 4 to 7
- Reading age:
- 9 to 12
Awards
- Commended, CCBC Best Books for Kids & Teens
Editorial Reviews
"I would highly recommend this book for kids getting familiar with chapter books or who want a good, quick read...Action-packed."
— Canadian Children's Book Centre (CCBC) Canadian Children’s Book News, student takeover edition
“With appeal that stretches far beyond dirt bikes, this story tackles loyalty, sacrifice, friendship, family, trust, bravery, and justice, and the antagonist has a terrific, well-written change of heart.”
— Booklist
“Full of adventure, action, and suspense and will keep readers on the edge of their seats.”
— Must Read Literature
“A story about friendship, dealing with bullies, and making the most of what you have.”
— Resource Links
“It’s wonderful to read a book about a female character in such a male-dominated sport. The plot is also exciting as the reader follows along in the bike’s repair and Mitch’s first few dirt bike rides which scare him. Both Mitch and Kelsey are strong characters, something which stands out and makes the story believable.”
— CM: Canadian Review of Materials
