(3) K-3 Illustrated by Erika Medina. After seeing a skateboard for the first time, young Patti McGee makes her own board (with wheels from her roller skates) and starts "ZIP! SWISH! ZOOM!"-ing around town. Eventually, she earns a spot on an all-boys team and wins the first national championship (in the girls' division, which the text doesn't specify). The upbeat text emphasizes McGee's devotion and dedication: "It wasn't easy. Her arms ached and her knuckles bled." The illustrations in sun-bleached colors emphasize the athleticism and artistry of the sport. An endnote brings readers up to speed on McGee's current activities; an author's note sets the story's time (early 1960s) and place (San Diego) and adds details about McGee's early career. A list of sources is appended.

Reviewer: Kitty Flynn