Hooked

Sixteen-year-old Fredricka “Fred” Oday, who lives with her impoverished family on the Gila River Indian Reservation, plays on the town’s fancy golf course during off hours when it’s free. Her talent impresses her high school coach, so he gives her the top spot on the all-boy team. She encounters raw, realistic racism from the student golfers, especially the one whose spot on the team she took. Meanwhile, handsome rich boy Ryan becomes Fred’s tournament partner, and half the book comes from his unsteady perspective. He’s torn between his romantic feelings for Fred and his allegiance to his popular but often cruel friends. Fred is strong and resilient, and it’s easy to root for her as she succeeds in golf and bonds with her “Rez” friends, including a cute boy named Sam; her story, laced with information about Native American culture and traditions, sheds important light on the many struggles Native teens face. Making her YA debut, Fichera shows strong storytelling chops as she weaves together plot lines involving class struggles, violence, bullying, and—of course—romance. Ages 14–up. Agent: Holly Root, Waxman Leavell Literary Agency. (Feb.)