Shot in the Dark

by Janet M. Whyte

Never lose sight of your goal -- even if you can't see it

Eighth-grader Micah is psyched to have made the BC junior goalball team -- even though he gets the news while dealing with a flare-up of his degenerative eye condition. What he's not happy about is his parents' decision to get him a guide dog, and the possibility of losing his independence.

When Liam, a new, first-rate player, joins the goalball team, Micah's frustration with his vision spills onto the court. He is rude to Liam and starts a fight with another teammate, Sebastian, after practice. It's only with the help of Cam, his Orientation and Mobility Specialist, that Micah starts to get a handle on his aggression and trust people enough to communicate how he feels. But with the team's big junior tournament in Richmond, B.C., quickly approaching, Micah has to reconcile his differences with Liam and Sebastian -- both on and off the court -- to become a real team player and help his team win the championship.

 

About the Author

JANET M. WHYTE is a former equestrian and the author of five books, including the Lorimer Sports Stories novel Rescue Rider. Janet lives in Vancouver, BC, where she works as a library technician at Langara College.

Reviews

"[Micah's story is engaging and his character is realistically drawn . . . Although some of Micah's problems are related to his difficulties with seeing, many of his daily struggles involve issues familiar to young readers: gaining independence from his parents, controlling his anger, and making friends. Shot in the Dark is a well-researched, insightful book."
Charis Cotter,, National Reading Campaign
"The extension of the Lorimer Sports Series to lesser-known Paralympic sports is a good one."
Patricia Jermey,, Resource Links
"Micah's snarky, conversational narrative is a great fit for reluctant readers, and the fast-paced action will satisfy sports fans, even if they have never heard of goalball. . . . [This insightful glimpse into the life of a visually impaired teen is . . . illuminating."
Sarah Hunter,, Booklist

Awards

Canadian Children's Book Centre Best Book for Kids and Teens
2015
Chocolate Lily Book Award
2018
Red Cedar Award
2016

Subjects (BISAC)

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