A review by raix
Ana on the Edge by A.J. Sass

emotional hopeful informative medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Character
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.0

I liked how this book was very detailed about skating, without being boring or alienating to someone who doesn't know about the sport. I feel like I learned a lot about the work that goes into it! Ana was very easy to connect with as a narrator, and I liked watching her process of figuring out who she is, even if it was painful at times. The added pressure she faces about her mother's finances when it comes to wanting to change her program due to the dysphoria was a good detail, and I like the way this book highlights the difference between Ana and the more affluent skaters without making her seem like a target for pity. I was happy that ultimately she gets support at the end, and I like the analogy of taking a transition like learning a new choreography - working it out one step at a time. I like that Ana's story wasn't a cookie-cutter trans narrative in that, by the end, she hasn't decided entirely what she wants in terms of pronouns or coming out to others, or what skate division she'll skate in. The most important step was figuring herself out and telling those she loves. I also like how Ana faces regular tween problems, like navigating friendships, in addition to her gender struggles. I thought the supporting characters were great as well. 
Expand filter menu Content Warnings