Is a magical Carey Price bobblehead the key to Elliot’s success on the ice?
Eleven-year-old Elliot loves hockey and finally convinces his parents to sign him up. There’s just one problem: he can barely skate. But he is determined. He practices every chance he gets and even takes extra lessons. He is still miles behind the rest of his teammates in terms of skills and speed, though. So when the goalie gets injured, Elliot surprises everyone by offering to take his place. He figures his “jelly-legs” won’t be quite so obvious in net. He is wrong. The first game is a complete disaster. In desperation, Elliot begs his Carey Price bobblehead for a win. Both thrilled and surprised when his wish is granted, Elliot makes more wishes. His team keeps winning. But is the magic real? And what will happen if his teammates discover the secret to Elliot’s success?
With twenty-five hockey-card-style illustrations scattered throughout, this is a heartfelt story of friendship, hockey and the importance of believing in yourself.
Elliot Jelly-Legs and the Bobblehead Miracle (Orca Book Publishers, 2023) is available now! Order through your favorite bookstore or follow the links:
Reviews
“A sweet sports story with both head and heart in the right places.”
Kirkus
“This middle grade novel by Yolanda Ridge has all the thrills and chills of a hockey game: tough competition, pressure, jealousy and speed.”
Canadian Children’s Book News – Spring 2023
“An entertaining story that will appeal to both boys and girls, and that includes the perfect mix of heartwarming and hockey… Authentic, relatable, realistic Elliot will worm his way into the hearts of readers and will have them cheering him on.”
The British Columbia Review – April 18, 2023
“Interweaving a hockey story with pre-teen angst and real life-struggles, Elliot Jelly-Legs and the Bobblehead Miracle is a well-written light read with good characterization and a message about trying your best in the face of difficulty.”
CM Volume XXIX / Issue 14 – December 2, 2022
“Author Yolanda Ridge manages to capture a true picture of what it means to be a member of both a sports team and a family. The family issues, such as sibling rivalry, slightly unengaged parents, and mild bullying, are portrayed accurately and sensitively. Middle school readers who play any sport will relate to Elliot and cheer along with him as his hard work pays off.”
School Library Connection (subscription required)
“A sweet story about making saves and being saved. Lovely.”
Kevin Sylvester
Introduce Elliot Jelly-Legs to the classroom!
Both a Chapter Sampler and a Discussion Guide for educators are available on the Orca Book Publishers Website.