Illustrated by Sophie Escabasse
Published through Amulet Books
A highly illustrated middle-grade series that celebrates new friendships, first crushes, and getting out of your comfort zone
Ever since they can remember, fifth-graders Kenzie (aka Kenzilla) and Shelly (aka Bomb Shell) have dreamed of becoming roller derby superstars. When Austin’s city league introduces a brand-new junior league, the dynamic duo celebrates! But they’ll need to try out as a five-person team. Kenzie and Shelly have just one week to convince three other girls that roller derby is the coolest thing on wheels. But Kenzie starts to have second thoughts when Shelly starts acting like everyone’s best friend . . . Isn’t she supposed to be Kenzie’s best friend? And things get really awkward when Shelly recruits Kenzie’s neighbor (and secret crush!) for the team. With lots of humor and an authentic middle-grade voice, book one of this illustrated series follows Kenzie, Shelly, and the rest of the Derby Daredevils as they learn how to fall—and get back up again.
Reviews
**STARRED REVIEW**
“This a great pick about fierce young ladies coming together though sports. The book has loads of action and plenty of heart, running with themes of friendship, being a good communicator, dealing with jealousy, and even a little sprinkle of how it feels to have a crush on someone you think is just the coolest person ever. Memorable characters and frequent illustrations bring the story to life and will make anyone want to get their derby on.” Booklist
“A lighthearted celebration of life, friendship, and rolling with the punches.” Kirkus Reviews
“Relatable, empathic series debut introduces readers to the fast-paced sport of roller derby and hints at interesting backstories for Kenzie’s teammates.” Publishers Weekly
About the author …
Kit Rosewater writes books for children. She lives in Albuquerque, New Mexico with her spouse and a border collie who takes up most of the bed. Before she was an author, Kit taught middle school theatre and high school English, then worked as a children’s bookseller. She has a master’s degree in Children’s Literature and a knack for finding her characters in clouds, ceiling plaster, and Cheetos. Her debut series The Derby Daredevils rolls out Spring 2020 through Abrams.
Pitch Wars 2021
2021 Pitch Wars Schedule
June 3, 2021
#PitMad Twitter Pitch Party (8AM – 8PM EDT)
June 21, 2021
Mentor Application Window Opens
July 7, 2021
Mentor Application Window Closes
August 9, 2021
Mentors Announced
September 2, 2021
#PitMad Twitter Pitch Party (8AM – 8PM EDT)
September 11 – 25, 2021
Pitch Wars Mentor Wishlists Posted
September 26, 2021 (midnight EDT)
Mentee Submission Window Opens
September 30, 2021 (10PM EDT)
Mentee Submission Window Closes
November 6, 2021
Pitch Wars Mentees Announced
December 2, 2021
#PitMad Twitter Pitch Party (8AM – 8PM EST)
February 9 – 14, 2022
Agent Showcase:
Feb 9: Adult entries go live on Pitch Wars site
Feb 10: MG entries go live on Pitch Wars site
Feb 11: YA entries go live on Pitch Wars site
Pitch Wars is managed and staffed by volunteers, but we have unavoidable, necessary costs. Your donation keeps the mentoring program free for all writers.