MaKayla loves double dutch jumproping. Among the jumpers in Brooklyn, she holds a speed record. Now she's looking forward to qualifying for a national competition at Madison Square Garden. But with her parents' marriage foundering, they send MaKayla and her brother to relatives in North Carolina while they work things out. MaKayla is not looking forward to spending time with her snooty cousin. Turns out her cousin is not so bad after all and is having trouble of her own: she's been outcast by her friends after freezing during a double dutch competition. MaKayla is determined that Sally redeem herself and they start a double dutch team of their own. But with two beginners joining their team, and Sally's lack of confidence, can MaKayla get the team where it needs to be? The character of MaKayla has fierce determination and New York City attitude with a dose of snap. Readers will enjoy her bright personality and may even be inspired to try double dutch for themselves. ( )

"Judging a book by its cover is easy to do; be open to the possibility that people might surprise you." (pg. 146) This book is much more than jumping rope with friends. Its about friendship, family issues, and how to prove to yourself you can do anything. Makayla is a middle school girl who is living in New York City sudden her mother forces her to move to her aunt's house for the summer. Makayla will figure out her love for Double Dutch. This is a great story with diverse characters! ( )

A fun summer read that will introduce readers to the competitive world of Double Dutch. Kayla is a fish out of water in NC, having grown up in Brooklyn. When her parents are having marital problems, she and her brother are shipped off to stay with her aunt and uncle and cousins. She’s never gotten along with her cousin Sally, but they bond over their shared love of Double Dutch. Rivalry with Sally’s former team is great motivation and distraction and they find themselves in the regional championships before they know it.

A great story with diverse characters. Recommend to middle schoolers. ( )