


It’s very educative regarding the possible complications of the illness and how it affects sufferers and their families. Finally, Jason Reynolds handles Patina’s mother’s diabetes in such a sensitive, but true-to-life manner. Besides her bond with her teammates, her relationship with Becca is sweet too. You know how much I love reading about female friendships - Patina makes some great female friends. I enjoyed all of the relay training and actually felt like I developed a greater appreciation for the entire sport. There’s such a wonderful emphasis on family and the value of friendships and community in this book and the entire Track series. Williams‘ use of ebonics in Genesis Begins Again. The language of the book also flows naturally, much like Alicia D. This book’s layout with Patina’s unending to-do lists as the chapter headings really exemplify her character. I would totally read a YA novel about Patina. She’s so sweet and cares for the people in her life.


She seems rough-edged initially, but we see that her tough exterior is only a defense mechanism. Also, at track practice, she’s forced to rely on her team when they begin practicing the relay baton hand-over. Things start to change at school when her teacher assigns her to a group project with three other girls. Patina suppresses most of her grief for her dad and mother and focuses on looking after her sister, even if Emily is fully capable. Her one bright spot is running track with her friends. The girls call Emily “Momly.” The move means that Patina has to go to a posh new private school, leaving behind her best friend, Cotton. After Patina’s dad dies and her mom loses both legs to diabetes, she and her sister move in with her uncle and his wife Emily. I loved the first book, Ghost and even recommended it in this list of middle-grade books about sports. Patina is the second book in the Track series by Jason Reynolds.
