You know that feeling when you're watching figure skating at the Olympics and it's so beautiful and the emotional tension of wanting everything to go well is so intense that your heart is in your throat? That's how I felt reading this, and not just during the skating scenes. I was so invested in Ana's journey of discovery, and rooting so hard for a happy outcome, that it felt like I was in Ana's skates.
A particular strength of this book is the sensitive depiction of a young person in the process of figuring out who they are, and how to express that evolving identity to others. Kudos also for the depiction of supportive adults, and the nuanced look at a friendship under strain that grows instead of breaking.

I was expecting this to be a good book, but it blew me away. The author sets the tone early with an incredibly suspenseful edge-of-your-seat scene of Ana’s big moment at a national figure skating competition, and keeps the tension drawn tight as the stakes for Ana rise and rise.

Not only is Ana struggling to understand and communicate their gender identity, but also to cope with major life changes and pressures that would be hard for anyone, let alone a 12-year-old child, to process.

That’s not to say this book is all about struggle; it’s also about the joy of loving what you do and working hard to be successful at it; it’s about making and keeping friends; it’s about family.

I believe this will be an important book for so many kids figuring out their gender identities, but it’s also just a great read, especially for anyone who loves figure skating! This author is incredibly talented, with an authentic voice and such skill with language! Highly recommended!!

ANA ON THE EDGE
The pages within the striking cover of Ana on the Edge hold the poignant story of a young skater searching for her identity. This important tale takes the reader on an emotional journey of the inner turmoil Ana faces as she tries to please everyone except herself. I believe this quietly powerful story will help young readers who are confused as to how they fit into this world, making them feel less alone. This is a great read also for the friends and families of children who are experiencing the question of their gender identity. I highly recommend this heartwarming book set against the exciting world of competitive ice-skating.

I absolutely loved Ana on the Edge! AJ Sass has done an incredible job of incorporating several issues important to MG readers, thus insuring a story that will appeal to a wide variety of students. Those who love figure-skating will be delighted at the detailed and accurate presentation of the sport and its requirements. Most importantly, readers exploring their own gender identity will find a sensitive, nuanced, and age-appropriate presentation of Ana’s own struggles. The author’s note at the end provides essential information for readers as well. I highly recommend this book for all classrooms, libraries, and readers!

Everyone should read this book! I love it for three reasons. First, it’s an engaging book. I was completely invested in Ana’s story and had to know what was going to happen. Especially during the last half, I didn’t want to put it down. Second, I have a transgender child, and I know how important it is for kids to see that they’re not alone. Even just learning the terminology and that there are others like them helps to give them the feeling of belonging. Third, if more people, especially kids, understand what being transgender means, it will make coming out that much easier and safer.

Ana Jin is a relatable hero for contemporary queer youth; her confusion, fears, and hope within the struggle of discovering a place for herself in the binary world of competitive figure skating is both impactful and important. Sass's gorgeous debut fills a much needed void on LGBTQ+ middle grade shelves.