The Fifth Quarter

"The Fifth Quarter" follows Lori Block, a fourth-grade girl who struggles with self-confidence in her daily life. While her parents are preoccupied with her mother's political campaign, Lori finds solace and a path to self-improvement through basketball. Despite being relegated to the "5th quarter," a non-scoring period for less skilled players, Lori's dedication to practice and her friendship with Sophia help her develop grit and a stronger sense of self. This graphic novel explores themes of perseverance, friendship, and finding your place, making it ideal for children aged 7-11 who might feel awkward or overlooked. It gently addresses family dynamics and the challenges of growing up, offering a heartwarming story of personal growth.

Lori Block and her best friend Sophia are dedicated to their Fourth-Grade basketball team, despite being relegated to “the 5th quarter,” an extra period before the “real” game starts, where the not-so-good kids play, and the points don’t count. That doesn’t matter to Lori though, because Basketball is a place where working hard and getting better gives her hints of self-confidence. At school, she is awkward and unsure, and at home Lori’s parents are consumed by her mother’s bid for local government. With athletic promise and a dogged determination to keep improving, Lori pursues her passion while navigating awkward social dynamics, her own expectations and her first overnight away from home. Can she find her confidence in school, at home, and on the court?