Every 2 weeks or so we’re reviewing books that we found interesting. These books may range from nonfiction to fantasy to informative to escapism. Our hope is that we find something for everyone, and to broaden awareness, access, and information pertaining to sex, sexual health, pleasure, and beyond
Check Please by Ngoni Ukazu is a graphic novel series following hockey skater Eric Bitterman as he enters the world of collegiate sports The books are a wholesome coming-of age story that involves a found family through a hockey team and an LGBTQ+ romance involving teammates.
The hockey team the Eric joins has to reassess their belief about what a good hockey player is when Eric joins, as he joins having previously been a figure skater, while they are also forced to face the toxic culture that tends to come with hockey and consider how they can be support towards Eric as a gay athlete with atypical hobbies (for hockey players). Eric is also faced with his fears of learning a new sport, joining a new team and dating another athlete.
This series does a great job of discussing the toxicity prevalent in sports culture due to gender norms and overall pressure, all while involving a supportive friend group, and plenty of baked goods spanning the four years of Eric’s university life. This novel would specifically be great for hockey fans, fans of Heartstopper and anyone looking for a cute graphic novel.