A review by tashadandelion
We Ride Upon Sticks by Quan Barry

adventurous funny hopeful reflective slow-paced
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? No

3.75

This is a quirky and slightly nostalgic tour of young womanhood in New England, circa 1989. Barry handles the all-around less woke worldview we had back then with finesse. There is acceptance and forgiveness for a way of interacting in the world that no-one knew could be improved at that time. We inevitably change, and this book celebrates that fact. The Danvers High School varsity field hockey team decides to turn their luck around with a little old-fashioned witchcraft. The team pledges their adherence to "the darkness", affectionately named "Emilio" after the soft-focus movie star on the cover of the spiral-bound notebook containing their pledges. They tie pieces of a cut up gym sock around their upper arms to seal the deal. This somewhat desperate and whimsical act turns their perennial losing streak around, provides psychic powers, and takes the lid off their inhibitions. What follows is an amusing romp through senior year sports and misbehavior. How much is fueled by supernatural dark powers, and how much is simply young women finding their inner truth? I think it's up to the reader to decide. 
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