Paddle Battle

"The author explores what this young teen goes through when faced with the breakdown of his parents’ marriage. From feeling angry and blaming himself to finding support through his peers, Finn’s character arc is well rounded. The realities of climate change and wildfires and their impacts on the younger generation are also seamlessly woven into the story." — Kirkus Reviews

Set against a backdrop of the threat of wildfires on the west coast, this book looks at the effect changes at home can have on a young athlete’s performance and the emotional support a team can provide. Thirteen-year-old kayaker Finn has been angry and resentful since his mother left the family. In a highly charged emotional state, Finn’s performance is not only suffering, but he is also taking things out on his teammates. Like the wildfires that threaten Finn’s Okanagan training camp, this book shows how new beginnings arise after a destructive event.