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TNT Force Cheer #1
Learning to Fly
Max Turner is a tom boy through and through. Her favorite activities include hunting, fishing, playing sports, and running around with her neighbors Peter and Kyle. But, when Max meets some girls at the local trampoline park she gets introduced to a whole new world. With her dad's encouragement Max finds herself in a place she never imagined she would be: an all star cheerleading gym. TNT Force is one of the best cheerleading gyms in North Texas, and between the glitter, massive hair bows, and over the top dance moves Max is sure she had no place in the gym. But, as she soon learns, she has skills that even top cheerleaders work years to develop. Will Max tough it out and give cheerleading a chance, or will she ignore her natural talent to stay in her comfort zone?
- GenresYoung AdultSportsFiction
200 pages, ebook
Published July 1, 2016
18 people are currently reading
432 people want to read
About the author
Dana Burkey
29 books220 followersDana Burkey is a self-published author living in Bellingham, Washington. She has been enjoying her time in the Pacific North-West since 2009, making her move there after graduating from Youngstown State University in Ohio. She began self-publishing young adult fiction in August of 2014, and is most known for her TNT Force Cheer Series. Currently Burkey is enjoying performing improv, creating stories, and looking for life's next adventure.
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Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews
August 19, 2016
When one hears the world “cheerleading”, one of two images will come to mind. It will either be the young girls in skirts with huge pom-poms in their hands standing and jumping on the sidelines to cheer the school’s football team to victory. The other image that may come to mind is a team performing well-orchestrated dances, tumbles, human pyramids and other similar stunts before judges in a competitive setting.
The latter of the two is the setting for this story of a 12 year old tomboy girl who discovers she has a talent for this type of sport and also more about herself. Max usually hangs out with and plays with boys, but when she decides to try some tumbling on a trampoline at a park, it leads her to entirely different world full of glitter, tights, dance and other “girly” things that she doesn’t like.
The story is geared toward “tweens” about the same age as Max with age-appropriate material and language. The dialogue is realistic for the girls who are practicing in the TNT Force gym. The acronym is for the first initial of the three adults who coach the girls. The descriptions of the moves and the sport of cheerleading is excellent as a reader of any age will learn more about the sport and what types of practice and training these young people do in order to perform such a show for the judges and the spectators.
What also makes the story a good one for readers about the same age as Max is that she is constantly feeling conflicted. She hates all the glitter, tight shorts and makeup, yet she knows she is good at the dances, tumbling and flips. She feels out of place and feels the entire gamut of emotions while at the gym from isolation to elation. She looks to adults, including the coaches and her father, for guidance. All of these concepts and more make this a very good book for readers in grades 4-8. It is the first book of a series that will follow Max as she works her way through the ranks. I am looking forward to reading the next book in the series.
I wish to thank Ms. Burkey for providing a copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
http://sportsbookguy.blogspot.com/201...
The latter of the two is the setting for this story of a 12 year old tomboy girl who discovers she has a talent for this type of sport and also more about herself. Max usually hangs out with and plays with boys, but when she decides to try some tumbling on a trampoline at a park, it leads her to entirely different world full of glitter, tights, dance and other “girly” things that she doesn’t like.
The story is geared toward “tweens” about the same age as Max with age-appropriate material and language. The dialogue is realistic for the girls who are practicing in the TNT Force gym. The acronym is for the first initial of the three adults who coach the girls. The descriptions of the moves and the sport of cheerleading is excellent as a reader of any age will learn more about the sport and what types of practice and training these young people do in order to perform such a show for the judges and the spectators.
What also makes the story a good one for readers about the same age as Max is that she is constantly feeling conflicted. She hates all the glitter, tight shorts and makeup, yet she knows she is good at the dances, tumbling and flips. She feels out of place and feels the entire gamut of emotions while at the gym from isolation to elation. She looks to adults, including the coaches and her father, for guidance. All of these concepts and more make this a very good book for readers in grades 4-8. It is the first book of a series that will follow Max as she works her way through the ranks. I am looking forward to reading the next book in the series.
I wish to thank Ms. Burkey for providing a copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
http://sportsbookguy.blogspot.com/201...
May 17, 2016
This book seems to be written for middle grade level; I am well past middle grade age. I enjoyed learning about competitive cheering. I guess most of my friends and I were the opposite of Max. We wanted to be cheerleaders, we just didn't have the skills or the gyms/programs to do so. I could relate to Max feeling that she didn't really belong and also to her not really opening up much to others, but finding that when she did, she really did have people who wanted to be her friends. I liked that Peter and Kyle remained her friend even though she was doing something that they didn't fully understand at first.
I was glad to see that Hailey wasn't jealous of the fact that cheerleading moves come fairly naturally to Max when she herself has to work hard to do many of the same moves. I was also gratified to see that Hailey was content with being a base (a support person) rather than being the one in the limelight. I was a bit surprised to not find more "mean girls" within the cheerleading squads. Even though the competitions involve a team performing a routine, within the gym, there must be some competition to get on the teams that perform higher level skills. It might have been nice to see Tonya confront the flyer group with whom Max had to do a dance routine during camp and discuss their behavior. We did later see Paige apologize, but it might have been a nice counterpoint to see that one of the other girls was not repentant about her behavior and either get demoted to a lower squad because of it or be asked to leave the gym. (I'm guessing that Tonya and her coaches weed out the "mean girl" attitudes, but it might have been nice to have that said by Lexi or Hailey to Max or to see it in action.
Leanne's view of Max is not fully dealt with in this book--I suspect that will come in a future volume. I'm not sure if Leanne is upset/jealous that Conner is hanging out with Max rather than with her or if Leanne resents the attention that Max is getting because she picks up tumbling and stunting skills very quickly.
And after such a big deal being made about Max only doing it so she could get a cat (or cats), I don't think we ever saw her get to go pick them out!
Overall though, I enjoyed the work ethic the book promoted and the values of teamwork, friendship etc.
*Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.*
I was glad to see that Hailey wasn't jealous of the fact that cheerleading moves come fairly naturally to Max when she herself has to work hard to do many of the same moves. I was also gratified to see that Hailey was content with being a base (a support person) rather than being the one in the limelight. I was a bit surprised to not find more "mean girls" within the cheerleading squads. Even though the competitions involve a team performing a routine, within the gym, there must be some competition to get on the teams that perform higher level skills. It might have been nice to see Tonya confront the flyer group with whom Max had to do a dance routine during camp and discuss their behavior. We did later see Paige apologize, but it might have been a nice counterpoint to see that one of the other girls was not repentant about her behavior and either get demoted to a lower squad because of it or be asked to leave the gym. (I'm guessing that Tonya and her coaches weed out the "mean girl" attitudes, but it might have been nice to have that said by Lexi or Hailey to Max or to see it in action.
Leanne's view of Max is not fully dealt with in this book--I suspect that will come in a future volume. I'm not sure if Leanne is upset/jealous that Conner is hanging out with Max rather than with her or if Leanne resents the attention that Max is getting because she picks up tumbling and stunting skills very quickly.
And after such a big deal being made about Max only doing it so she could get a cat (or cats), I don't think we ever saw her get to go pick them out!
Overall though, I enjoyed the work ethic the book promoted and the values of teamwork, friendship etc.
*Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.*
July 2, 2016
A very 'clean' and age appropriate story, perfect for young readers. I would definitely suggest this one to my future kids, without worrying about what is being put into their heads.
A different book from the kind I usually read because:
1. It probably targets a younger audience as the characters are early teenagers (if there is such a term)
2. It talks about all-star cheerleading, which is different from the usual 'Go Team' kind of cheerleading, as the book clarifies several times.
3. I could not really connect with the MC because I was different when I was her age and still am extremely lazy where anything physical is concerned. (like finally getting down to write this review)
Being athletically challenged, I felt way out of my depth with this book. The MC is Max, a 12 year old tomboy who hates glitter, makeup, and anything girly, spends her time playing with boys. Most of the book deals with Max's trepidation about the cheerleading world and how she learns to enjoy it and learns to 'fly', which is a move I am terrified to even think about.
Now, keeping in mind, that I barely understand the technical names of various moves, I think the author did a pretty good job of explaining things without making it sound too much. The book has a simple yet entertaining plot, and was able to hold my attention even with all the athletic information overload.
A different book from the kind I usually read because:
1. It probably targets a younger audience as the characters are early teenagers (if there is such a term)
2. It talks about all-star cheerleading, which is different from the usual 'Go Team' kind of cheerleading, as the book clarifies several times.
3. I could not really connect with the MC because I was different when I was her age and still am extremely lazy where anything physical is concerned. (like finally getting down to write this review)
Being athletically challenged, I felt way out of my depth with this book. The MC is Max, a 12 year old tomboy who hates glitter, makeup, and anything girly, spends her time playing with boys. Most of the book deals with Max's trepidation about the cheerleading world and how she learns to enjoy it and learns to 'fly', which is a move I am terrified to even think about.
Now, keeping in mind, that I barely understand the technical names of various moves, I think the author did a pretty good job of explaining things without making it sound too much. The book has a simple yet entertaining plot, and was able to hold my attention even with all the athletic information overload.
May 15, 2016
This book was perfect for three main reasons:
1. Cheerleading is actually cool and fun and exciting with nice people and not just a bunch of mean girls that yell "go team" all the time at football games
2. Max is herself, even when it means people don't like her. She never changes who she is, and the idea of changing who she is dosen't even come up. Like, not to be a mega spoiler or whatever, but she would rather leave the gym then have to change who she is.
3. This book is a super cool YA book without any love and relationship on every page. Sure, I like books like that, but this was cool how it was just about cheer! I totally can see Max and Connor getting together, but I think that will be in the next book....which I already can't wait to read!
I just love this book and honestly already want to read it again! I totally want to be friend with Max and go hang out the cheer gym with her and her friends!
1. Cheerleading is actually cool and fun and exciting with nice people and not just a bunch of mean girls that yell "go team" all the time at football games
2. Max is herself, even when it means people don't like her. She never changes who she is, and the idea of changing who she is dosen't even come up. Like, not to be a mega spoiler or whatever, but she would rather leave the gym then have to change who she is.
3. This book is a super cool YA book without any love and relationship on every page. Sure, I like books like that, but this was cool how it was just about cheer! I totally can see Max and Connor getting together, but I think that will be in the next book....which I already can't wait to read!
I just love this book and honestly already want to read it again! I totally want to be friend with Max and go hang out the cheer gym with her and her friends!
June 11, 2016
Absolutely loved this book!!! Max is such a fun, relatable character that I definitely feel everyone will fall in love with. I loved how we got to learn about her backstory in ways that fit very naturally into the plot of the story, and didn't feel forced upon us. I also appreciated that the cheer lingo & various stunts were throughly explained to the audience as Max learned them. Lastly I'm not sure if this was intended but I loved the small romantic moments that we got between Max and two of the boys in the story (I'm not going to spoil it by saying who, but I ship her with both). In conclusion, I will definitely read this book again, and I'm so excited to read the upcoming books in the series. This is a must read that everyone will enjoy this summer!
*I was given a free copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review*
*I was given a free copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review*
May 17, 2016
Disclaimer: I receive a free arc from the author in exchange for an honest review.
This book start with a 12 year old girl Maxine "Max" Turner. She is a tomboy and plays with her two guy best friends Peter and Kyle. As they were playing dodge ball, she met some girls in the local trampoline park due to her being intrigue with the gymnastics stunts they were doing. The girls even taught her some moves and she was actually good at it. They invited her to go to the gym to try out cheerleading and with the encouragement from her dad she gives it a try. But the change was very challenging her that she even considered quitting and going back to what it was used to be.
I really enjoyed this book. It is a fast and easy read and it got me out of my reading slump. I love that it talks about the challenges a person goes through growing up, especially how a person deals with change. In this book, we see Max as this girl who was afraid of trying out something new and stepping out of her comfort zone but in the end we see her blossom into a different and more confident girl. I guess what the author is trying to say through her book is that change can be both intimidating and fun because we are always afraid of the uncertainty but we get to try a different thing that we might actually like. Another thing that I like is the fact that even though Max changed she was still very grounded in a way that even if she met new friends she is still friends with Peter and Max.
Furthermore, even though I was not a gymnast or a cheerleader I was able to relate to Max. When I was in 5th grade a music teacher saw a "potential" in me and decided to teach me the violin and let me joined the school orchestra. During that time I was nervous because I though I was not going to fit in or I will not be good enough but in the end I have come to enjoy being part of that group. I have met some amazing people and experience incredible things that I am thankful for. Also like Max my parents, especially my dad really encouraged me to do my best, to try and try again, and never quit just because I was afraid of doing it. In addition, this book made me appreciate cheerleading more. Here in the Philippines cheerleading is a big thing and my younger sister was a cheerleader in high school but I never understood the beauty of it or how hard those athletes practice and prepare for competitions. This book showed me that in order to be a cheerleader you have to talent, skills, dedication, and passion. The only problem that I had with this book is that it is very flat. I was hoping for a more complex and dense story. But in the end, I still think the story was good and I can't wait to read more of Dana Burkey's other books.
This is a great coming of age novel and I really recommend this to middle schoolers or teenagers but I know that this is the type of book that will be appealing and relatable to everyone. I definitely think my younger cousins and nieces would enjoy this and personally I like this book. It reminded me of me during grade school when I was afraid and hesitant of the changes that were happening around me. On top of that, if you like The Boyfriend Game by Stephie Davis, Love at First Click by Elizabeth Chandler, The Lonely Heart Club by Elizabeth Eulberg, and Catching Jordan by Miranda Kenneally you would certainly enjoy this.
More on mindlessnesschatter.blogspot.com
This book start with a 12 year old girl Maxine "Max" Turner. She is a tomboy and plays with her two guy best friends Peter and Kyle. As they were playing dodge ball, she met some girls in the local trampoline park due to her being intrigue with the gymnastics stunts they were doing. The girls even taught her some moves and she was actually good at it. They invited her to go to the gym to try out cheerleading and with the encouragement from her dad she gives it a try. But the change was very challenging her that she even considered quitting and going back to what it was used to be.
I really enjoyed this book. It is a fast and easy read and it got me out of my reading slump. I love that it talks about the challenges a person goes through growing up, especially how a person deals with change. In this book, we see Max as this girl who was afraid of trying out something new and stepping out of her comfort zone but in the end we see her blossom into a different and more confident girl. I guess what the author is trying to say through her book is that change can be both intimidating and fun because we are always afraid of the uncertainty but we get to try a different thing that we might actually like. Another thing that I like is the fact that even though Max changed she was still very grounded in a way that even if she met new friends she is still friends with Peter and Max.
Furthermore, even though I was not a gymnast or a cheerleader I was able to relate to Max. When I was in 5th grade a music teacher saw a "potential" in me and decided to teach me the violin and let me joined the school orchestra. During that time I was nervous because I though I was not going to fit in or I will not be good enough but in the end I have come to enjoy being part of that group. I have met some amazing people and experience incredible things that I am thankful for. Also like Max my parents, especially my dad really encouraged me to do my best, to try and try again, and never quit just because I was afraid of doing it. In addition, this book made me appreciate cheerleading more. Here in the Philippines cheerleading is a big thing and my younger sister was a cheerleader in high school but I never understood the beauty of it or how hard those athletes practice and prepare for competitions. This book showed me that in order to be a cheerleader you have to talent, skills, dedication, and passion. The only problem that I had with this book is that it is very flat. I was hoping for a more complex and dense story. But in the end, I still think the story was good and I can't wait to read more of Dana Burkey's other books.
This is a great coming of age novel and I really recommend this to middle schoolers or teenagers but I know that this is the type of book that will be appealing and relatable to everyone. I definitely think my younger cousins and nieces would enjoy this and personally I like this book. It reminded me of me during grade school when I was afraid and hesitant of the changes that were happening around me. On top of that, if you like The Boyfriend Game by Stephie Davis, Love at First Click by Elizabeth Chandler, The Lonely Heart Club by Elizabeth Eulberg, and Catching Jordan by Miranda Kenneally you would certainly enjoy this.
More on mindlessnesschatter.blogspot.com
April 15, 2021
First of all I want to say a big THANK YOU to the author, Dana Burkey, for sending me a free copy of this book in exchange for my honest review. As always it was a pleasure and delight to give your book a read.
Learning to Fly follows 12 year old Maxine(Max) Turner as she meets some girls her age that thing she would be perfect at their all star cheerleading gym. Max likes the idea of doing cool tricks, but isn't sure about the glitter, bows, and girly things that go with cheerleading. Through the book we get to learn about her hard past, dealing with losing her mother to cancer at a young age, get to watch her and her father lean on one another for support, and see Max struggle with acceptance.
Although this book is about cheerleading, it is also about so much more. Burkey has done a wonderful job of capturing a coming of age spirit in this book that allows readers to see Max try to fit in with people she is afraid she is nothing like. As a tomboy it is hard for Max to feel welcomed by cheerleaders like the people she meets at the gym, and on top of that she is still dealing with feelings of loss thanks to the death of her mother. The book has an emotional edge that I was not expecting, but was so thankful for.
Aside from the amazing emotional depth seen in the book, there is a lot of wonderful cheerleading. Even if you don't know anything about cheer, this book will help you to understand everything as Max learns it herself. The reader can follow along and get to know the world of cheer, while also seeing the real side of the sport. It is hard, it is tough, and the athletes that are hard at work in cheer gyms are no joke.
All in all this book is a perfect read for all ages. Weather you have experience with cheerleading or not you can really buy into the action and route for Max as she journey's through the gym. Readers young and old are sure to connect with the idea of trying something new, working to fit in, and also pushing yourself through all sorts of lifes tough situations. I would recommend this book to kids as young as 5th grade, knowing they can get behind Max and her story easily!
This book is my new favorite book by the author, as it combines so many elements that can help to encourage, inspire, and entertain todays young generation. I simply cannot say enough about this amazing novel!
Learning to Fly follows 12 year old Maxine(Max) Turner as she meets some girls her age that thing she would be perfect at their all star cheerleading gym. Max likes the idea of doing cool tricks, but isn't sure about the glitter, bows, and girly things that go with cheerleading. Through the book we get to learn about her hard past, dealing with losing her mother to cancer at a young age, get to watch her and her father lean on one another for support, and see Max struggle with acceptance.
Although this book is about cheerleading, it is also about so much more. Burkey has done a wonderful job of capturing a coming of age spirit in this book that allows readers to see Max try to fit in with people she is afraid she is nothing like. As a tomboy it is hard for Max to feel welcomed by cheerleaders like the people she meets at the gym, and on top of that she is still dealing with feelings of loss thanks to the death of her mother. The book has an emotional edge that I was not expecting, but was so thankful for.
Aside from the amazing emotional depth seen in the book, there is a lot of wonderful cheerleading. Even if you don't know anything about cheer, this book will help you to understand everything as Max learns it herself. The reader can follow along and get to know the world of cheer, while also seeing the real side of the sport. It is hard, it is tough, and the athletes that are hard at work in cheer gyms are no joke.
All in all this book is a perfect read for all ages. Weather you have experience with cheerleading or not you can really buy into the action and route for Max as she journey's through the gym. Readers young and old are sure to connect with the idea of trying something new, working to fit in, and also pushing yourself through all sorts of lifes tough situations. I would recommend this book to kids as young as 5th grade, knowing they can get behind Max and her story easily!
This book is my new favorite book by the author, as it combines so many elements that can help to encourage, inspire, and entertain todays young generation. I simply cannot say enough about this amazing novel!
June 2, 2016
I received an ARC from the author in exchange for an honest review.
The first thing that comes to mind whenever the word cheerleading is heard is most likely this:
But of course it's more than just the pompoms and yelling:
After watching a few Bring It On movies before and seeing cheering competitions on the TV sometimes, I knew this too but to be honest I only thought of it before as a dance and not a sport until this book.
12-year-old Max Turner doesn't consider herself a girly-girl and prefers to go hunting, fishing, play sports, and she's also best friends with boys. The last thing that she'd probably imagine herself becoming is a cheerleader until she met Lexi and Halley who introduced her to cheerleading.
I loved how everyone was so welcoming to Max. She had her doubts about joining the squad but a lot of the girls and even boys were very friendly, and helped her with her stunts and routines. Imagining myself in her shoes, it would probably be too overwhelming to meet and get to know all those people but Max actually did well. I liked how she had learned how to get out of her comfort zone and do something that she really can't imagine herself doing. Lastly, I love the support her dad gave her.
I'd just also like to point out a couple of mistakes that I spotted. I know they'd probably be edited in the final copies but just in case:
That is all :)
The first thing that comes to mind whenever the word cheerleading is heard is most likely this:
But of course it's more than just the pompoms and yelling:
After watching a few Bring It On movies before and seeing cheering competitions on the TV sometimes, I knew this too but to be honest I only thought of it before as a dance and not a sport until this book.
12-year-old Max Turner doesn't consider herself a girly-girl and prefers to go hunting, fishing, play sports, and she's also best friends with boys. The last thing that she'd probably imagine herself becoming is a cheerleader until she met Lexi and Halley who introduced her to cheerleading.
I loved how everyone was so welcoming to Max. She had her doubts about joining the squad but a lot of the girls and even boys were very friendly, and helped her with her stunts and routines. Imagining myself in her shoes, it would probably be too overwhelming to meet and get to know all those people but Max actually did well. I liked how she had learned how to get out of her comfort zone and do something that she really can't imagine herself doing. Lastly, I love the support her dad gave her.
I'd just also like to point out a couple of mistakes that I spotted. I know they'd probably be edited in the final copies but just in case:
That is all :)
April 18, 2016
Mark your calendars and get ready to cheer!
The first book in my new series TNT Force will be hitting the shelves on July 1st. Learning To Fly will give readers a look into the world of All-Star Cheer leading through the eyes of Max, a 12 year old tom-boy with little in common with the other athletes at a North Texas cheer gym. But, with skills and abilities that helps her stand out every time she takes the mat, will Max be able to step out of her comfort zone and give the glittery and flashy world of cheer leading a try?
The first book in my new series TNT Force will be hitting the shelves on July 1st. Learning To Fly will give readers a look into the world of All-Star Cheer leading through the eyes of Max, a 12 year old tom-boy with little in common with the other athletes at a North Texas cheer gym. But, with skills and abilities that helps her stand out every time she takes the mat, will Max be able to step out of her comfort zone and give the glittery and flashy world of cheer leading a try?
May 30, 2016
*I received this book in exchange for an honest review*
This book was a clean and fun book! Good plot, and most of the characters were likable! I liked how the main character, Max, was not a Mary Sue and has flaws. There was one problem I had, and it was probably because it was an ARC, but there were a couple of spelling and/or grammar mistakes. Overall, a short but good read!
This book was a clean and fun book! Good plot, and most of the characters were likable! I liked how the main character, Max, was not a Mary Sue and has flaws. There was one problem I had, and it was probably because it was an ARC, but there were a couple of spelling and/or grammar mistakes. Overall, a short but good read!
May 27, 2016
I really enjoyed this book.fast paced,easy read.i had a hard time imagining all the stunts and moves described.i liked the friendship aspect and would love to learn more about the competitions if there was a sequel.
March 9, 2017
Amazing. I had been looking for a cheerleading story for so long, this ticked all the boxes. There is emphasis on the technique, which I was really keen to read about. There were a few spelling errors. The only thing I wish is that this story could have been with someone a bit older than 12, but I'm definitely keen to follow on with the series because I love cheer stories!
August 2, 2017
This was a light and really happy read which I truly enjoyed.
It should appeal to any teenager with an interest in sports.
It should appeal to any teenager with an interest in sports.
July 25, 2016
Learning to Fly by Dana Burkey is a feel-good 'tween read about stepping out of your comfort zone and seeing what life has to offer.
Main character, Maxine, is 12 years old, but she's quick to tell everyone that she is turning 13 in a couple months. She is also quick to correct anyone who calls her Maxine instead of Max. She is a very athletic, very competitive tomboy. Her mom died six years prior, and Max and her dad are slowly healing by bonding over shared activities like hunting, fishing, etc. Max's best friends are boys, so when she approaches some girls practicing slick moves on the park trampoline, Max is surprised by how much she likes these girls and their gymnastics.
One of the most delightful aspects of Learning to Fly is that there is no high drama with mean girls. There are a couple girls who take a while to warm up to Max, but this story is about Max taking a giant leap even though she is afraid of falling. With the support of her new and old friends, Max learns to fly (figuratively and literally). I was also charmed by the excellent familial relationships. The 'tweens and teens were not left to their own devices to figure out life; they weren't pansies, but the kids in the story looked for age-appropriate guidance from their parents as well as love and support. Max's dad is incredibly supportive and patient. He is a smooth operator when it comes to knowing when to apply a little pressure, offer a bribe or a pat on the back to motivate Max.
Learning to Fly is a wonderful, positive story that I found to be uplifting and heart-warming. It's perfect for all ages.
I received a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. The review was done in conjunction with Nerd Girl Official: www.nerdgirlofficial.com.
Main character, Maxine, is 12 years old, but she's quick to tell everyone that she is turning 13 in a couple months. She is also quick to correct anyone who calls her Maxine instead of Max. She is a very athletic, very competitive tomboy. Her mom died six years prior, and Max and her dad are slowly healing by bonding over shared activities like hunting, fishing, etc. Max's best friends are boys, so when she approaches some girls practicing slick moves on the park trampoline, Max is surprised by how much she likes these girls and their gymnastics.
One of the most delightful aspects of Learning to Fly is that there is no high drama with mean girls. There are a couple girls who take a while to warm up to Max, but this story is about Max taking a giant leap even though she is afraid of falling. With the support of her new and old friends, Max learns to fly (figuratively and literally). I was also charmed by the excellent familial relationships. The 'tweens and teens were not left to their own devices to figure out life; they weren't pansies, but the kids in the story looked for age-appropriate guidance from their parents as well as love and support. Max's dad is incredibly supportive and patient. He is a smooth operator when it comes to knowing when to apply a little pressure, offer a bribe or a pat on the back to motivate Max.
Learning to Fly is a wonderful, positive story that I found to be uplifting and heart-warming. It's perfect for all ages.
I received a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. The review was done in conjunction with Nerd Girl Official: www.nerdgirlofficial.com.
June 28, 2016
While set in a world of glitter and bows, this is more than a cheerleading story.
It is appropriate for upper elementary school readers through early high school, but adult readers will also enjoy this clean read. It addresses insecurities and growing pains we face repeatedly in life.
It also deals sensitively with issues of loss and feelings of being"different" and not fitting in.
I had ballet classes and tumbling class when I was a child. This book brought back fond memories. I was fortunate and attended those classes with my sister and neighborhood friends. Max, the heroine here, enters this cheer world alone after meeting two girls at a trampoline center. Her father is supportive and well meaning, but does he understand what it is to be a twelve year old girl?
The only part of this book that did confuse me a little was the ages of the girls. We learn some began cheer practice as young as four years old, and a couple of Max's new friends are between nine and sixteen. Being such a range, it is even more impressive how well they get along and support each other.
This is a book about taking risks to grow, making new friends and learning about yourself and things you may not have realized you are capable of doing and being. It is a clean read and age appropriate. While told from Max's point of view, we learn enough about the other characters to feel comfortable with them. We also know there is more to be told, and look forward to another book. This one does not end with a cliffhanger and stands alone well.
I received an advance copy but was under no obligation to review.
The opinions and enjoyment of reading are all my own.
It is appropriate for upper elementary school readers through early high school, but adult readers will also enjoy this clean read. It addresses insecurities and growing pains we face repeatedly in life.
It also deals sensitively with issues of loss and feelings of being"different" and not fitting in.
I had ballet classes and tumbling class when I was a child. This book brought back fond memories. I was fortunate and attended those classes with my sister and neighborhood friends. Max, the heroine here, enters this cheer world alone after meeting two girls at a trampoline center. Her father is supportive and well meaning, but does he understand what it is to be a twelve year old girl?
The only part of this book that did confuse me a little was the ages of the girls. We learn some began cheer practice as young as four years old, and a couple of Max's new friends are between nine and sixteen. Being such a range, it is even more impressive how well they get along and support each other.
This is a book about taking risks to grow, making new friends and learning about yourself and things you may not have realized you are capable of doing and being. It is a clean read and age appropriate. While told from Max's point of view, we learn enough about the other characters to feel comfortable with them. We also know there is more to be told, and look forward to another book. This one does not end with a cliffhanger and stands alone well.
I received an advance copy but was under no obligation to review.
The opinions and enjoyment of reading are all my own.
July 5, 2016
In high school I remember seeing the cheerleaders walk down the hallway. It was almost like the sea had parted and here came the "in crowd" of the school. Their uniforms were perfect as well as their hair. Their mannerisms were somewhat stuck up and they oozed with power and popularity. I never wanted to be a cheerleader simply because I would never fit into that crowd. Max at the tender age of twelve is invited to join the cheering world. Can you imagine being asked to join a group that was looked up to by many and meant you were now part of the group that everyone envied? She must of had butterflies as she started working with the other girls? Would she be accepted?
Max is at an age where she is trying to fit in, figure out who she is and wanting friends to hang out with. Maybe bring on the cheering squad will help her to be more outgoing and less self conscious . I liked the different techniques described in the book and how disciplined you have to be to be able to do difficult twists, turns, tumbles and intricate moves while being in front of your peers. The book is a great read that touches on issues that all teens deal with. The author does a great job of showing that it's ok to make mistakes that help you grow and mature. It is an interesting book that helps teens learn confidence , and learn that being "cool" isn't really as important as being yourself and trusting your instincts .
I received a copy of this book from Librarything for an honest review.
Max is at an age where she is trying to fit in, figure out who she is and wanting friends to hang out with. Maybe bring on the cheering squad will help her to be more outgoing and less self conscious . I liked the different techniques described in the book and how disciplined you have to be to be able to do difficult twists, turns, tumbles and intricate moves while being in front of your peers. The book is a great read that touches on issues that all teens deal with. The author does a great job of showing that it's ok to make mistakes that help you grow and mature. It is an interesting book that helps teens learn confidence , and learn that being "cool" isn't really as important as being yourself and trusting your instincts .
I received a copy of this book from Librarything for an honest review.
July 5, 2016
So first I need to mention that I received a free copy of this book from the Author in exchange for an honest interview.
I am the mother of two girls - ages 12 and 16. Between them they have done every sport from gymnastics, dance, field hockey, basketball, on and on. As well as one daughter doing cheer for a bit.
I have to say this book would appeal to any 10-13 year old with a passing interest in sports. Specifically one that loves the feel of flying that comes with tumbling. Or who loves watching those amazing tumbles in gymnastics and cheer. Those kids will LOVE this book!
The 10-13 year olds will also appreciate that the only boys in this book are friends and there is no KISSING or other romantic stuff to ruin it (just a hint which the young reader could easily miss if they are not into that sort of thing or speculate on if they like that sort of thing).
I think it was well written, an interesting story and will recommend to my youngest daughters friends. I now have to go out and buy a paper copy of this book for my daughter (she doesn't care for ebooks).
So much for the free ARC. LOL!
I am the mother of two girls - ages 12 and 16. Between them they have done every sport from gymnastics, dance, field hockey, basketball, on and on. As well as one daughter doing cheer for a bit.
I have to say this book would appeal to any 10-13 year old with a passing interest in sports. Specifically one that loves the feel of flying that comes with tumbling. Or who loves watching those amazing tumbles in gymnastics and cheer. Those kids will LOVE this book!
The 10-13 year olds will also appreciate that the only boys in this book are friends and there is no KISSING or other romantic stuff to ruin it (just a hint which the young reader could easily miss if they are not into that sort of thing or speculate on if they like that sort of thing).
I think it was well written, an interesting story and will recommend to my youngest daughters friends. I now have to go out and buy a paper copy of this book for my daughter (she doesn't care for ebooks).
So much for the free ARC. LOL!
July 11, 2016
My memories of high school cheerleading involve the occasional cartwheel or round-off, so this was an eye-opening story that explained a lot about competitive cheerleading. Max is a very likeable character, with an emotional backstory, believable conflict, and a personality that will make readers want to see her happy no matter what she chooses to do.
November 14, 2024
What a fun read? A unique story, for sure.
I enjoyed this. It was a fast read once I actually made time to read it.
I really liked the characters and the plot is fun. I'm looking forward to the next one.
I enjoyed this. It was a fast read once I actually made time to read it.
I really liked the characters and the plot is fun. I'm looking forward to the next one.
July 13, 2020
Best book I've ever read! Also I was locked out of account for like months but I'm back now and going to update all the other books in the series. They aer all my favorites!!!!!!
July 30, 2020
I absolutely loved this book. So fun, heartwarming, real, and cheer-tastic!
August 22, 2016
If the Bring It On movie series was a middle-grade novel, Learning To Fly is it!
I've been seeing this book around Goodreads for awhile and when the author of this book, Dana Burkey, gave me a chance to review this for her, I took the chance!
The book is middle grade and I'm not really reading a lot of middle grade books lately, I usually read young adult. The book won't actually feel it's middle grade, I just realized it was when I learned the main character's age was mentioned in the book.
Reading this actually made me look back on how I was when I was twelve years old. Was I insecure but driven like Max? Was I struggling this hard to make friends? Was I proud and show off-ish? Was I hard to convince in doing new things? The answer to all of those is yes! This reminded me on how I was trying new things and the struggle to do them as a kid. This is the reason why parents should read what their kids are reading! I don't have children, but I personally think that this book would connect so much to kids as much as it connects to parents and adults. Max tells so much about her insecurities and struggles that a parent might want to look at their kids in a new light. Max's dad is such a good example of a parent: loving, supportive, disciplinarian, and so many more. This is such a good way to understand kids in general.
The story and the flow of it is very nicely done. I love how there are moments that matter later on in the story. I love how diverse and real the characters are. I love the description of the cheer leading world and how the author introduced it to the reader. While reading this, I was actually imagining this as a movie, that's why it reminded me so much of the cheerleading movie series, Bring It On. You know, minus the teenage drama (but there are some of it in this book). I just wish I could watch the cheer routines that Max and her squad had done. But I have to admit, I'm glad that was omitted because I can only imagine how hard it is to describe a routine.
The best part about this book is the messages and lessons that the author wants to reach the readers. I won't say those messages and lessons because I want you guys to discover them because it won't be worth it when you read it.
Now for the low parts of the book. I really wanted to give this book a five-star review but I found some stuff that I think is a bit off. I am not a cheerleader. I danced and I have a small knowledge about cheering. There are some parts when the characters describe a cheering move I just cannot grasp very well. I read the phrase or sentence again and again but I cannot imagine it. So if the readers are same as me with less to no knowledge about cheering, they might not understand them too. Another thing, Peter and Kyle. They were mentioned in the book description as Max's friends and really expected them to have a bigger role in the book. I get it that they are not part in most of Max's activities but I think they have more potential as characters.
In general, I love the book very much! I would definitely recommend this book to my kid self. I think that means a lot because it means this book would be a great basis on how I can cope with the struggles of being a kid. I also would definitely recommend this to parents and their kids (especially if the kids are athletes).
I enjoyed reading this book I would like to thank the author for giving me a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. Congratulations Dana Burkey for a very compelling and driven book!
I've been seeing this book around Goodreads for awhile and when the author of this book, Dana Burkey, gave me a chance to review this for her, I took the chance!
The book is middle grade and I'm not really reading a lot of middle grade books lately, I usually read young adult. The book won't actually feel it's middle grade, I just realized it was when I learned the main character's age was mentioned in the book.
Reading this actually made me look back on how I was when I was twelve years old. Was I insecure but driven like Max? Was I struggling this hard to make friends? Was I proud and show off-ish? Was I hard to convince in doing new things? The answer to all of those is yes! This reminded me on how I was trying new things and the struggle to do them as a kid. This is the reason why parents should read what their kids are reading! I don't have children, but I personally think that this book would connect so much to kids as much as it connects to parents and adults. Max tells so much about her insecurities and struggles that a parent might want to look at their kids in a new light. Max's dad is such a good example of a parent: loving, supportive, disciplinarian, and so many more. This is such a good way to understand kids in general.
The story and the flow of it is very nicely done. I love how there are moments that matter later on in the story. I love how diverse and real the characters are. I love the description of the cheer leading world and how the author introduced it to the reader. While reading this, I was actually imagining this as a movie, that's why it reminded me so much of the cheerleading movie series, Bring It On. You know, minus the teenage drama (but there are some of it in this book). I just wish I could watch the cheer routines that Max and her squad had done. But I have to admit, I'm glad that was omitted because I can only imagine how hard it is to describe a routine.
The best part about this book is the messages and lessons that the author wants to reach the readers. I won't say those messages and lessons because I want you guys to discover them because it won't be worth it when you read it.
Now for the low parts of the book. I really wanted to give this book a five-star review but I found some stuff that I think is a bit off. I am not a cheerleader. I danced and I have a small knowledge about cheering. There are some parts when the characters describe a cheering move I just cannot grasp very well. I read the phrase or sentence again and again but I cannot imagine it. So if the readers are same as me with less to no knowledge about cheering, they might not understand them too. Another thing, Peter and Kyle. They were mentioned in the book description as Max's friends and really expected them to have a bigger role in the book. I get it that they are not part in most of Max's activities but I think they have more potential as characters.
In general, I love the book very much! I would definitely recommend this book to my kid self. I think that means a lot because it means this book would be a great basis on how I can cope with the struggles of being a kid. I also would definitely recommend this to parents and their kids (especially if the kids are athletes).
I enjoyed reading this book I would like to thank the author for giving me a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. Congratulations Dana Burkey for a very compelling and driven book!
May 17, 2016
I received an Arc from the author in exchange for an Honest review. Thanks for a chance to read this lovely book!
I want to start off by saying that this isn't the genre that I usually read but I wanted to go ahead and give it a try and I swear, right now I feel like Max! Before starting this book I had the same thoughts as Max about cheerleading. Before this book, for me..Cheerleading was always for girly girls and almost all the cheerleaders were mean! That's the type of cheerleaders that I've seen and read about. This book changed all of that!
This book made me change my opinion on a lot of things. And I kind of have a feeling that this review is going to be exactly how Max would've reviewed this book, because my opinions on Cheerleading changed in the same way that her's did.
Cheerleading as I was told involved Pompoms, giggles, and a lot of glitter! The kind of cheerleading Max does has just glitter in common. This cheerleading was way cooler than any usual ones! Not going to go deeper into it because reasons.. but it sounded so fun that I actually wanted to do them too!
And breaking another stereotype( can I call it that?)that cheerleaders are mean, the author introduces us to Lexi and Halley who are nothing if not supportive! Those two girls are amazing and I'd do anything to have them come to life. This world needs more Lexi and Halleys. And Kyle! I am going to just put it out there that Kyle is out right Adorable!
And now it's Connor's turn! He was a really nice addition to the characters list and I have a feeling that he is going to be more and more important in the next books..(there are more books right?) also.. I sense a ship being added to my evergrowing list..
Did I mention Max's dad? No? Here you go.. This guy is the coolest Dad that I've read in recent times. Now coming back to cheerleading.. Where do I signup to join TNT? I need to be on the squad! It sound so fun!!! And the camp? Somebody tell me where I can get to do such awesome activities!!!!!
This book made me want to signup for All star cheerleading, go out and try new things that were out of my comfort zone!
I had a few discomforts though.. The main one being that at times Max seemed way too mature for a 12 year old! Infact, all the characters sounded a couple of years older than what the actually were, sometimes. But it's probably just me because it took me a lot of time to realise that 12isn't too young and that people are in sixth and seventh grades by then! Another "me" problem was that somewhere after the first couple of chaters i asked myself "why am i even reading a non- fantasy, kind of realistic fiction?" And then I got my answer.. (sort of)
" I don’t want you to keep not doing them just because it’s out of my comfort zone, or the comfort zone I’ve helped you create.”
For some reason it struck a cord and I ended up finishing the book in one sitting!
All of that being said.. This is the kind of book that'll make you all happy on the inside. It'll make you want to go out and try new stuff, even if it was for a short time or even if you thought you'd suck at it! Also.. In a weird way this book made me think about somethings that I never gave a second thought to and now I actually feel like people are not so different from each other! Every single one of us is unique but not totally different from one another.. (sorry if that didn't make sense!)
I want to start off by saying that this isn't the genre that I usually read but I wanted to go ahead and give it a try and I swear, right now I feel like Max! Before starting this book I had the same thoughts as Max about cheerleading. Before this book, for me..Cheerleading was always for girly girls and almost all the cheerleaders were mean! That's the type of cheerleaders that I've seen and read about. This book changed all of that!
This book made me change my opinion on a lot of things. And I kind of have a feeling that this review is going to be exactly how Max would've reviewed this book, because my opinions on Cheerleading changed in the same way that her's did.
Cheerleading as I was told involved Pompoms, giggles, and a lot of glitter! The kind of cheerleading Max does has just glitter in common. This cheerleading was way cooler than any usual ones! Not going to go deeper into it because reasons.. but it sounded so fun that I actually wanted to do them too!
And breaking another stereotype( can I call it that?)that cheerleaders are mean, the author introduces us to Lexi and Halley who are nothing if not supportive! Those two girls are amazing and I'd do anything to have them come to life. This world needs more Lexi and Halleys. And Kyle! I am going to just put it out there that Kyle is out right Adorable!
And now it's Connor's turn! He was a really nice addition to the characters list and I have a feeling that he is going to be more and more important in the next books..(there are more books right?) also.. I sense a ship being added to my evergrowing list..
Did I mention Max's dad? No? Here you go.. This guy is the coolest Dad that I've read in recent times. Now coming back to cheerleading.. Where do I signup to join TNT? I need to be on the squad! It sound so fun!!! And the camp? Somebody tell me where I can get to do such awesome activities!!!!!
This book made me want to signup for All star cheerleading, go out and try new things that were out of my comfort zone!
I had a few discomforts though.. The main one being that at times Max seemed way too mature for a 12 year old! Infact, all the characters sounded a couple of years older than what the actually were, sometimes. But it's probably just me because it took me a lot of time to realise that 12isn't too young and that people are in sixth and seventh grades by then! Another "me" problem was that somewhere after the first couple of chaters i asked myself "why am i even reading a non- fantasy, kind of realistic fiction?" And then I got my answer.. (sort of)
" I don’t want you to keep not doing them just because it’s out of my comfort zone, or the comfort zone I’ve helped you create.”
For some reason it struck a cord and I ended up finishing the book in one sitting!
All of that being said.. This is the kind of book that'll make you all happy on the inside. It'll make you want to go out and try new stuff, even if it was for a short time or even if you thought you'd suck at it! Also.. In a weird way this book made me think about somethings that I never gave a second thought to and now I actually feel like people are not so different from each other! Every single one of us is unique but not totally different from one another.. (sorry if that didn't make sense!)
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