Hoops: A Graphic Novel: (A Middle Grade Novel About Perseverance, Gender Equality, and Teamwork for Kids Ages 8-12 in Grades 3-7) by Matt Tavares

As seen on the Today show A work of fiction inspired by a true story, Matt Tavares’s debut graphic novel dramatizes the historic struggle for gender equality in high school sports. It is 1975 in Indiana, and the Wilkins Regional High School girls’ basketball team is in their rookie season. Despite being undefeated, they practice at night in the elementary school and play to empty bleachers. Unlike the boys’ team, the Lady Bears have no buses to deliver them to away games and no uniforms, much less a laundry service. They make their own uniforms out of T-shirts and electrical tape. And with help from a committed female coach, they push through to improbable victory after improbable victory. Illustrated in full color, this story about the ongoing battle of women striving for equality in sports rings with honesty, bravery, and heart.

From the Publisher Read more of Matt Tavares's sports biographies! "On one level it is an account of one of the most amazing hitters to ever play baseball, but it is also a valiant story of hope, resilience, perseverance, and love." — Library Media Connection (starred review) "This is a glorious tribute to a baseball legend and a complicated human being." — School Library Journal "Tavares’ latest baseball profile, featuring Pedro Martínez, is as much an homage to the love between brothers as it is a biography." — Booklist