“Girls who play sports and the coaches and families who support them will thoroughly enjoy this warm, uplifting story!”

— Christine Brennan, USA TODAY Columnist and Author of On Her Game: Caitlin Clark and the Revolution in Women’s Sports

When Maggie Steele loses her older brother, the future seems to close in around her. Life on her family’s Kansas farm keeps moving, but Maggie feels stuck in grief, pressure, and self-doubt — until she discovers an unlikely way forward: the pole vault.

What begins as a daring escape becomes something much more. As Maggie learns to trust her body, face fear, and push past the limits others place on her, the crossbar becomes more than a mark of athletic progress. It becomes the line between the life she has known and the person she is becoming.

A coming-of-age sports novel for middle grade and young teen listeners, ages 10 and up. Narrates the unabridged novel; read-along compatible with the print edition.

Performed by Audie Award and Emmy Award-winning narrator Tavia Gilbert.

“Gilbert’s splendid portrayals will thoroughly engage listeners.” — AudioFile

“A fine YA novel about perseverance in sports and in life.” — Kirkus Reviews

“The positive influence this book can have on young athletes is invaluable.” — Erica Fraley, US Olympian

“An inspirational pick for young adult fiction collections.” — Midwest Book Review

Named one of the best track-and-field novels of all time by CITIUS Mag.

Contains no profanity or sexual content. Honest treatment of grief, family loss, and recovery.