The Best Ice Skating Books for Middle Graders:
7 Picks for the Rink-Obsessed
Whether it’s the quiet glide of a morning practice or the high-stakes roar of a Friday night game, there is something magical about the ice. For kids who live in their skates, finding a book that captures that specific feeling of "cold air, warm heart" is a total game-changer.
If your middle-grader is looking for their next great rink-side read, here are seven of the best ice-focused books hitting the shelves today.
Breaking the Ice by Gail Nall
After a very public "meltdown" on the ice, Kaitlyn has to find her way back into the sport she loves. It deals with the pressure of expectations and the importance of finding your own path.
-
Best for: Readers who enjoy stories about overcoming failure and finding your "spark" again.
Skating Showdown by Jake Maddox
Jake Maddox is the king of high-action, quick-read sports fiction. This story focuses on the competitive edge of the rink and the importance of sportsmanship when things get heated.
-
Best for: Readers who want a "one-sitting" read with plenty of action.
I wrote this specifically for the kids who love the sport but find long, descriptive novels a bit of a slog. It follows a young skater navigating competition and unexpected obstacles. Like all my books, it features short chapters and cliffhanger endings to keep reluctant readers turning the pages.
-
Best for: The "skating-obsessed" reader who needs a fast-paced plot to keep them engaged from the first zamboni lap to the final buzzer.
Skating Shoes by Noel Streatfeild
A true classic from the author of Ballet Shoes. This story follows the friendship between Harriet, who skates for medical reasons, and Lalla, who is destined for greatness. It’s a timeless look at the discipline and joy of the sport.
-
Best for: Fans of "vintage" storytelling and classic British literature.
The Comeback by E.L. Shen
This is a powerful, modern story about Maxine Chen, a competitive figure skater dealing with a new rival and the challenges of being the only Chinese American girl in her class. It’s a brilliant look at identity, resilience, and the "nerves of steel" required for competition.
-
Best for: Readers who love high-stakes sports combined with a deep, emotional character journey.
Taking the Ice: Khalli's Big Test by Allie Ritt
This is a fantastic "insider" look at the world of figure skating. It focuses on Khalli as she prepares for a major testing session, capturing the technical details and the mental focus needed to move up the ranks.
-
Best for: Dedicated young skaters who want to see their own "test day" anxiety reflected on the page.
Roller Girl by Victoria Jamieson
Twelve-year-old Astrid has always done everything with her best friend Nicole. But when Astrid signs up for roller derby camp and Nicole chooses dance camp instead, Astrid has to learn how to survive the rink—and middle school—on her own. This graphic novel perfectly captures the "toughness" required in skating sports: the bruises, the falling down, and the ultimate triumph of getting back up.
-
Best for: Visual learners and fans of graphic novels who appreciate stories about friendship, persistence, and finding your own "tribe."