The Rebound (Fiona Harris, A&U Children’s)

The Rebound, by award-winning author Fiona Harris (The Embarrassing Confessions of Gracie Sparks), is a topical, reflective middle-grade novel about a basketball-loving boy navigating the pressures of growing up in a world that doesn’t always seem to play fair.

After the sudden loss of his dad, “Hoop Wizard” Harry’s life spirals, and he misses try-outs for the top-tier basketball team. Forced to instead play with the school’s training team (aka the “loser squad”), he becomes resentful of both his situation and his teammates. Despite his individual talent, Harry’s attitude sees him benched by the coach, who reminds him, “If you don’t play with the team, you don’t play.”

By presenting contrasting coaching styles – one that emphasises winning at all costs and another that prioritises fair play – Harris prompts readers aged 10 to 15 to consider what really matters in organised sport. Her use of Gen Alpha vernacular and occasional text messages between main characters helps ground the story in a recognisable, contemporary voice. Harris expertly weaves humour into the narrative to lighten the intense themes of grief and anxiety, and she tackles issues of ego and forgiveness without condescension. Her ultimate message shines: “Great players don’t build great teams … Great teams build great players.”

The Rebound is an excellent text for educators to explore themes of teamwork, resilience and integrity with students. Recommended for young NBL/NBA fans and any young person with a competitive, sporty streak.

Books+Publishing reviewer: Kirsten Barich is a teacher librarian in South Australia. Books+Publishing is Australia’s number-one source of pre-publication book reviews.

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