Many thanks to NetGalley, Atria Books, and Hannah Orenstein for the opportunity to read this wonderful book - 4.5 stars rounded up!
This is the story of Avery who was on the verge of competing in the Olympics for gymnastics when she had a career-ending injury. From there, her life spiraled downward. All she had known was gymnastics and that was gone. After a breakup with her boyfriend in CA, she returned home and moved back into her childhood bedroom. A chance at coaching another future Olympian at her old gym gave Avery a new start. Then a scandal broke in the gymnastic world with consequences for all involved and threatens Avery's new relationship as well.
My reading preference usually tends a bit darker, but I'm all about a good story - and this is a good story. Hannah Orenstein is obviously familiar with the gymnastics scene and touches on the abuses the girls put their bodies and minds through to compete at a high level. But this book also talks about abuse on an even worse basis (the Larry Nassar scandal). Friendship and forgiveness are also great themes in this book - how to put old grievances behind and move forward together. You'll find yourself rooting for all these characters! But it also has serious tones and is motivational and inspirational. Bravo to all involved!
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