Just finished Headshot? Next up read We Ride Upon Sticks…
Just finished Headshot? Next up read We Ride Upon Sticks…
If the intense inner worlds and gritty determination of the teenage boxers in Rita Bullwinkel's Headshot left you craving more stories of fierce young women pushing boundaries in athletics, dive into Quan Barry's We Ride Upon Sticks—a wildly entertaining ride through 1980s teen rebellion, team spirit, and supernatural flair that captures the thrill of victory and the chaos of girlhood.
"What a goddamned delight of a book. I laughed at something nearly every paragraph."— Jessica Woodbury, Goodreads
Imagine the psychological depth and feminist undercurrents of Headshot transplanted to a 1980s Massachusetts field hockey team, where a group of high school girls discovers a quirky, almost mystical edge to their game. Quan Barry's We Ride Upon Sticks masterfully weaves an ensemble narrative that's equal parts coming-of-age triumph and sly commentary on gender roles in sports, much like Bullwinkel's portrayal of boxers grappling with identity and ambition.
The book's dark humor and atmospheric vibes echo the bittersweet tone of Headshot, but with a fresh infusion of magical realism that keeps things unpredictable and fun—think less about punches and more about spells cast on the field.
What makes this a standout follow-up is its accessibility for readers who loved the character-driven intensity of Headshot but want something with a bit more levity and historical flavor. Barry dives deep into the girls' personal struggles, from family pressures to budding romances, all while subverting the 'jock' stereotype with wit and warmth. It's perfect for those transitional reads where you want to linger in themes of resilience and female solidarity without retreading the same ring. Plus, its indie appeal and critical buzz make it a hidden gem that's engaging yet thoughtful, ideal for book clubs or solo reflection.
Ultimately, if Headshot hooked you with its unflinching look at violence and vulnerability in women's sports, this book expands that lens to explore how collective power and individual quirks can redefine success—delivering a narrative that's empowering, entertaining, and just a tad enchanting.
"We were teen girls. Look up the word 'blasé' in Merriam-Webster's and you'd find a picture of us, our eyes burning through your soul from the page."— Rebecca, Goodreads
The book's themes of ensemble storytelling and feminist empowerment align beautifully with Headshot's approach to character-driven narratives. Both works examine how young women navigate complex social dynamics, whether in boxing gyms or field hockey rinks, showcasing their strength and resilience in the face of adversity. Barry's exploration of queer undertones and team dynamics provides a fresh angle on the psychological depth that made Headshot so compelling.
Both novels share a commitment to showcasing women's experiences in competitive environments, offering readers a window into the intense emotional landscapes that drive these characters forward. The atmospheric quality of both works creates an immersive reading experience that goes beyond simple plotlines to explore deeper themes of identity, power, and the transformative moments that shape young lives.
