Lucy and friends are out on the playground when they spot Ava playing basketball with her cousin Jermaine, a professional player. Jermaine calls the kids over for a lesson on the fundamentals of the game and how to play three-on-three. When the kids finish, Jermaine invites them to watch him play in a pro game. Lucy, Ava and friends cheer on Jermaine and his teammates, keeping an eye out on the real court for the skills they learned at the playground.
Lucy Tries Basketball is the fifth title in the Lucy Tries Sports series, following books about hockey, soccer, short track and luge. The series encourages children to get active and participate in sports and recreation.
Also available in French as Lucy joue au basketball.
What inspired you to write this book? Or what was the catalyst for the story?
Basketball is a tremendous team sport played around the globe. This summer at the Tokyo Summer Games, the 3X3 game will make its debut so I thought it was the perfect time to connect early readers to the game!
Did anything surprise you while writing this book?
The big surprise for me was when Kawhi Leonard hit the winning shot to send the Toronto Raptors into the NBA Finals and I wrote a similar buzzer beater for this story two years ago! #crystalball
How would you describe your writing style in three words?
Simple. Fun. Purposeful.
What was the most recent book you read?
Someone You Know by Shari LaPena.
Is there a question that a reader has asked you that surprised you or stood out to you?
Whenever students write their own Lucy books I am in complete awe. It was very emotional to hear “Lucy Tries Camping” and “Lucy Tries Fancy Dance”.
Which other authors would you recommend to your readers?
Ruth Ohi and Marie Louise Gay are amazing!
What was it like to see your story come alive visually?
I am incredibly blessed to work with my teammate James Hearne. He consistently brings to life the visions in my head. THANK YOU James! I’d also like to thank the design team at Orca for the incredible layouts :)))
What types of conversations do you hope will come out of your book?
I hope that when families read a Lucy book they will recognize the benefits of sport for ALL and especially multi-sport participation. I also would like early readers to “keep trying” just like Lucy!
Lucy Tries Basketball is available now. Or check out the Lucy Tries Sports High-Five Pack to read the whole series!
Lisa Bowes is a sports journalist and media consultant. While working for CBC, she was nominated for a Gemini Award for Best Writing in an Information Program or Series. She is a Physical Education graduate who is passionate about encouraging children and families to be active. Lisa lives in Calgary.