Quick Summary: We Ride Upon Sticks is a captivating, coming-of-age story that explores the life of a group of high school field hockey players in a town that believes in the supernatural. Through their journey, they discover the power of friendship, loyalty, and a little bit of magic.
We Ride Upon Sticks Book Summary
We Ride Upon Sticks tells the story of a group of girls in the 1989 field hockey team at a high school in Danvers, Massachusetts. Set against the backdrop of the infamous “witch trials” of the 17th century, this narrative combines themes of empowerment, friendship, and the power of belief. The story follows the journey of these girls as they embrace their identity while also exploring the mystical elements surrounding their town, which has a rich history tied to witchcraft.
At the center of the plot is the team’s decisive goal of winning the state championship. This goal generates a sense of unity among the girls, who come from diverse backgrounds. Each character has her struggles, insecurities, and unique perspectives, which adds depth to the story. The narrator, whose voice is energetic and engaging, pulls readers into the highs and lows of high school life, filled with challenges both on and off the field.
The narrative takes an interesting turn as the girls begin to pursue a unique bond: they decide to embrace witchcraft as a way to amplify their skills and improve their chances of success in their games. This decision acts as a catalyst for their transformation, igniting a deeper exploration of their self-worth, female empowerment, and the meaning of friendship. The girls start by forming rituals and making agreements that connect them even more, fostering a sense of trust and belonging in an environment that often feels judgmental and competitive.
As the story unfolds, the supernatural elements become increasingly pivotal to the character development and plot progression. The girls experience strange occurrences that they attribute to their witchcraft practices, blurring the lines between reality and fantasy. These happenings serve as metaphors for their growth, aspirations, and fears, ultimately leading to the realization that true empowerment comes from within rather than relying on magical beliefs. The more they bond and appreciate themselves and each other, the more successful they become, both in sports and personal growth.
The story is not without its obstacles. As pressure mounts for the team to perform and win, personal issues arise that threaten to dismantle their unity. Rivalries with other teams, heartache from broken friendships, and societal expectations of femininity challenge their resolve. The whispering past of witch trials lingers in their decisions, reminding them of both empowerment and danger. Through trials and tribulations, the girls support one another, proving that their strength lies in their friendship, honesty, and acceptance.
In conclusion, We Ride Upon Sticks is a powerful narrative that challenges traditional gender norms while celebrating camaraderie and support among young women. This tale captures the essence of high school life, infused with an enchanting mix of magic and realism that resonates with readers. It’s a captivating testament to the struggle for identity and belonging in the tapestry of adolescence, honoring the complexities of female friendships and the journeys they embark upon together in pursuit of their dreams.
We Ride Upon Sticks Book Review
The book captivates from the start, drawing readers into an era filled with teenage angst, aspirations, and a touch of magic. With its unique blend of realism and a whimsical approach to witchcraft, the narrative keeps the audience engaged while exploring deep themes of identity and empowerment. The characters are relatable, each representing different aspects of the teenage experience, making it easy for readers to empathize with their journeys.
The author’s writing style is fresh and dynamic. The dialogue feels authentic, capturing the lingo and attitudes of young women navigating high school life. The humor interspersed throughout the story adds richness to the characters and their experiences, creating a well-rounded reading experience that resonates deeply.
One standout aspect of the book is its ability to make the theme of witchcraft feel relevant to today’s young women. Rather than relegating it to mere fantasy, the book frames it as a powerful metaphor for empowerment and self-discovery, encouraging readers to find strength within themselves while offering a critique on societal expectations of femininity and competition among women.
However, the story is not without its flaws. Some readers might find the enthusiasm for witchcraft to be too heavy-handed or feel that the magical realism detracts from authentic character development. The journey the characters undergo, from initial excitement about witchcraft to a realization of where true strength lies, is a bit convoluted at times and might feel rushed for some readers. Yet, the overall message of friendship and belief in oneself shines through, leaving a lasting impact.
Furthermore, the twists and turns of the plot are gripping, keeping readers on their toes. The suspense and tension build effectively as the team navigates challenges, both on the field and within their personal lives. The conclusion beautifully ties together the various threads of the story, offering a satisfying resolution that reinforces the importance of trust and unity. Readers may find themselves cheering for the girl’s triumphs and feeling the sting of their disappointments, mirroring the highs and lows of the adolescent experience.
Lessons From We Ride Upon Sticks
Lesson 1: The Importance of Friendship
This book illustrates the power of friendship among the girls on the field hockey team. Through shared dreams, challenges, and magical experiences, the girls demonstrate that true friendship can withstand the storms of high school life. Their strong bond becomes a source of strength, showcasing that collaboration and support can lead to success. Readers are reminded that friendship is about lifting each other up and facing challenges together, which is essential in both sports and life.
Additionally, the story emphasizes the importance of having a support system. The team faces numerous obstacles, but their ability to rely on one another keeps them grounded and focused. They learn to communicate openly and honestly, which ultimately leads to personal growth and accomplishment. It’s a lesson that resonates beyond high school settings, reminding readers to cherish and nurture their friendships.
Lesson 2: Embracing Individuality
We Ride Upon Sticks embraces the uniqueness of each character. Each girl brings her own personality, struggles, and strengths to the team. The story encourages readers to celebrate their individuality while also recognizing the importance of coming together as a unit. This message remains relevant not just in sports, but in all aspects of life, as it promotes the idea that diverse perspectives and strengths can lead to deeper connections and greater achievements.
The girls’ journey prompts readers to explore their identities and self-worth. The struggles they face in finding acceptance and love for themselves are relatable. The narrative’s celebration of individuality can inspire readers to embrace their quirks, challenges, and differences. Ultimately, it becomes a crucial aspect of fostering self-confidence and resilience. Readers learn that it’s okay to stand out and that embracing who they are is fundamental in forging genuine relationships.
Lesson 3: Belief in Oneself
One of the most powerful lessons from We Ride Upon Sticks is the importance of believing in oneself. Initially, the girls believe they need to rely on spells and rituals to succeed, but throughout the journey, they discover that their true strengths lie within. This realization becomes a turning point in their lives, pushing them to unlock their potential through hard work, dedication, and trust in themselves.
This journey resonates with readers, especially young adults grappling with external pressures, self-doubt, and the desire for validation. The narrative sends a profound message: believing in oneself is the foundation of achieving anything in life. The characters’ growth symbolizes the personal empowerment that comes when one learns to trust their own abilities and aspirations.
Who Would I Recommend We Ride Upon Sticks To?
This book resonates with a broad audience, especially young adults who appreciate coming-of-age stories infused with a touch of magic and social commentary. It is particularly suited for readers who enjoy narratives centered on female empowerment and teamwork. Fans of sports-themed literature, stories focused on high school experiences, and those who appreciate a touch of the supernatural will find enjoyment in this book.
Additionally, it would be a great read for anyone interested in the intersection of history and modern themes such as identity and friendship. Educators and parents might find this book an excellent addition to discussions around self-acceptance, strategy, and supporting young women in navigating challenges. It’s relatable and engaging for both teenagers and adults, offering valuable insights for readers of all ages.
Final Thoughts
We Ride Upon Sticks is a fascinating read that combines elements of sports, magic, and friendship in an engaging narrative. The richly developed characters and their heartfelt journey through challenges provide readers with an authentic reflection of the teenage experience. More than just a story about winning team spirit, it highlights the importance of camaraderie, belief in oneself, and embracing individuality.
Through its spirit of empowerment and resilience, this book encourages readers to navigate life’s complexities with courage, ultimately leading to deeper connections with themselves and others. The message is clear: it is our friendships, our self-belief, and our history that fuel our strength and potential. As readers traverse the magical journey alongside the characters, they come away with lasting lessons about unity, identity, and the power of belief.
If you’re interested in exploring more topics related to personal growth, check out Bible verses about having a child or quotes about being strong.