Ana on the Edge - The Library of the Uncommons

240 pages

English language

Published 2020 by Little, Brown Books for Young Readers.

ISBN:: 978-0-316-45861-0

(1 review)

Perfect for fans of George and Ivy Aberdeen's Letter to the a heartfelt coming of age story about a nonbinary character navigating a binary world. Twelve-year-old Ana-Marie Jin, the reigning US Juvenile figure skating champion, is not a frilly dress kind of kid. So, when Ana learns that next season's program will be princess themed, doubt forms fast. Still, Ana tries to focus on training and putting together a stellar routine worthy of national success.

Once Ana meets Hayden, a transgender boy new to the rink, thoughts about the princess program and gender identity begin to take center stage. And when Hayden mistakes Ana for a boy, Ana doesn't correct him and finds comfort in this boyish identity when he's around. As their friendship develops, Ana realizes that it's tricky juggling two different identities on one slippery sheet of ice. And with a major competition approaching, Ana must decide whether …

Perfect for fans of George and Ivy Aberdeen's Letter to the a heartfelt coming of age story about a nonbinary character navigating a binary world. Twelve-year-old Ana-Marie Jin, the reigning US Juvenile figure skating champion, is not a frilly dress kind of kid. So, when Ana learns that next season's program will be princess themed, doubt forms fast. Still, Ana tries to focus on training and putting together a stellar routine worthy of national success.

Once Ana meets Hayden, a transgender boy new to the rink, thoughts about the princess program and gender identity begin to take center stage. And when Hayden mistakes Ana for a boy, Ana doesn't correct him and finds comfort in this boyish identity when he's around. As their friendship develops, Ana realizes that it's tricky juggling two different identities on one slippery sheet of ice. And with a major competition approaching, Ana must decide whether telling everyone the truth is worth risking years of hard work and sacrifice.

5 editions

Alex Cabe reviewed Ana on the Edge by A. J. Sass

Solid Introduction to Nonbinary Identity for Kids

4 stars

I thought this was a YA book going in, but I should have looked closer because it was more kid lit.

Overall a good explanation to kids of nonbinary identity, with pleasant and relatable characters in a brisk read.

The author had personal experience with skating and got pretty in the weeds on the terminology, which was fine, it added to the authenticity.

I think it was a bit underexplored why Ana didn't want to identify a boy. Those feelings were stated and alluded to, but not really shown.