Redwood and Ponytail

K.A. Holt's "Redwood and Ponytail" is a tender novel in verse that introduces readers to Kate and Tam, two girls who initially see each other through the lens of stereotypes. Kate is the "perfect cheerleader," Tam the "tall jock." As their paths cross, they peel back these layers to reveal goofy, sensitive, and complex individuals, ultimately falling "in like" with each other. The book beautifully normalizes same-sex attraction for a young audience, focusing on the universal themes of self-discovery, overcoming prejudice, and finding comfort in one's own skin. It's a gentle, affirming story perfect for middle-grade readers navigating their own identities and relationships.

Kate and Tam meet, and both of their worlds tip sideways. At first, Tam figures Kate is your stereotypical cheerleader; Kate sees Tam as another tall jock. And the more they keep running into each other, the more they surprise each other. Beneath Kate's sleek ponytail and perfect façade, Tam sees a goofy, sensitive, lonely girl. And Tam's so much more than a volleyball player, Kate realizes: She's everything Kate wishes she could be. It's complicated. Except it's not. When Kate and Tam meet, they fall in like. It's as simple as that. But not everybody sees it that way. This novel in verse about two girls discovering their feelings for each other is a universal story of finding a way to be comfortable in your own skin.