Check, Please! Book 2: Sticks & Scones

Name: Check, Please! Book 2: Sticks & Scones
ISBN: 9781250179500

by Ngozi Ukazu

Bitty, a junior on the Samwell hockey team, faces new challenges on and off the ice, including a secret relationship with a professional hockey player. He must navigate distance, decide whether to rev

About This Book

Check, Please! Book 2: Sticks & Scones continues the beloved story of Eric 'Bitty' Bittle, a charming college hockey player, as he enters his junior year. This graphic novel delves into Bitty's secret relationship with professional hockey player Jack Zimmermann, exploring the complexities of dating, long-distance love, and the decision to come out to friends and family. It's a delightful coming-of-age narrative that balances humor, romance, and the emotional journey of self-discovery, all set against the backdrop of college sports and baking. Ideal for ages 12-18, it offers positive LGBTQ+ representation and themes of friendship, courage, and finding your place.

I'm a junior on the Samwell men's hockey team now, and not only do I have new teammates and new responsibilities and new pies to bake... I've got a new beau. ( Remember me ) Believe me: Dating a professional hockey player wasn't anything I expected to do in college. My parents don't know; my teammates have no clue... And Jack and I aren't sure that we want to keep it a secret.

Concepts

Love & Family Self-Confidence & Identity Friendship & Loyalty Resilience & Perseverance Loneliness & Belonging Fear & Bravery Joy & Gratitude Curiosity & Wonder Honesty & Integrity Empathy & Kindness Teamwork & Collaboration Growing Up Making Friends Being Different Cultural Identity Friendship & Social Sports Family & Siblings

Discussion Prompts

How does Bitty's fear of 'getting checked' on the ice relate to his fear of revealing his relationship with Jack?

What are the different ways Bitty's teammates support him, both on and off the ice?

Why do Bitty and Jack initially keep their relationship a secret? What are the pros and cons of their decision?

How does the book explore the idea of 'family,' both biological and chosen?

What lessons does Bitty learn about self-acceptance and bravery throughout this book?

External Reviews

NYT Bestseller

Graphic Books and Manga