Inspired by a true story, Hoops dramatizes the struggle for gender equality in high school sports. It is 1975, and the Wilkins Regional High School girls’ basketball team is in their rookie season. They practice at night in the elementary school and play to empty bleachers. Unlike the boys’ team, the Lady Bears have no buses to deliver them to away games and no uniforms, making their own out of T-shirts and electrical tape. With help from a committed female coach, they push through to improbable victory after improbable victory. This graphic novel about the ongoing battle of women striving for equality in sports rings with honesty, bravery, and heart.
Matt Tavares has created over twenty children’s books. He is the author-illustrator of the New York Times best-selling picture book Dasher, as well as Red and Lulu and several sports biographies, including Becoming Babe Ruth and Growing Up Pedro. Matt lives in Maine with his wife and two daughters.
Ages 8-12
This event is free to attend and open to the public, however, reservations are required for school groups interested in attending. Seating is available on a first come, first served basis.
