The Gymnast 2

A parent would reach for this book when their child is feeling the weight of high expectations or struggling to balance personal goals with the needs of their friends. It is a perfect choice for kids who are deeply committed to a hobby but are learning that true success includes being a supportive teammate during setbacks. The story follows Riley, an elite gymnast pursuing a lifelong dream, and Nia, a younger gymnast facing a difficult performance slump. Through their journey, the book explores themes of resilience, loyalty, and the emotional complexity of performance pressure. Written for the 8 to 12 age range, it provides a realistic look at the dedication required for competitive sports while modeling how to handle the inevitable stress of 'juggling it all' without losing one's empathy or sense of self.