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Jayla Jumps In
When eleven-year-old Jayla finds out that her mother used to be a Double Dutch champion, she's stunned. Her mom, who's on doctor's orders to lower her blood pressure, could move like that?!? Jayla decides to follow in her mom's footsteps, thinking that maybe double Dutch can make her stand out in her big, quirky family. As she puts together a team at school and prepares to compete, Jayla finds that Double Dutch is about a lot more than jumping rope--and it just might change her life in ways she never imagined. Full of hilarious family dynamics and plenty of jump rope action, Jayla Jumps In follows one girl's quest to get her mom healthy and find her place in her community.
208 pages, Hardcover
First published September 1, 2020
3 people are currently reading
135 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews
August 22, 2020
This book reminds me of how much I have always admired people who can do Double Dutch. It is hypnotizing to watch. And it is low tech. All you need is a nice long rope and at least three people. Coordinated people, that is. This book also reminds us all of the importance of being active and eating well. Jayla's mother has hypertension and starts working on better food choices as a part of the plot. The descriptions of the family gatherings were fun to read as well. Now I want to go watch some Double Dutch videos on Youtube.
Thank you to Albert Whitman and Company and Edelweiss+ for a DRC in exchange for an honest review.
Thank you to Albert Whitman and Company and Edelweiss+ for a DRC in exchange for an honest review.
June 9, 2020
2.5 stars
I received an electronic ARC from Albert Whitman and Company through Edelweiss+.
The concept behind this story is terrific and I wish the story flow had been better. Jayla is a rather self focused fifth grader who is struggling to find friends and understand her role in her family. She discovers Double Dutch in videos her older cousin was watching during their Thanksgiving gathering.
She also learns that her mom was an amazing Double Dutch jumper and is experiencing some health issues now. The book interweaves healthy eating information with Jayla's commitment to Double Dutch and convincing her mom to jump too. My problem was Jayla's negativity toward everyone. I understand that Jones was portraying a fifth grader trying to figure out her life but she was often nasty to other people. Family or class discussion can address this but it definitely takes away from the overall story.
I received an electronic ARC from Albert Whitman and Company through Edelweiss+.
The concept behind this story is terrific and I wish the story flow had been better. Jayla is a rather self focused fifth grader who is struggling to find friends and understand her role in her family. She discovers Double Dutch in videos her older cousin was watching during their Thanksgiving gathering.
She also learns that her mom was an amazing Double Dutch jumper and is experiencing some health issues now. The book interweaves healthy eating information with Jayla's commitment to Double Dutch and convincing her mom to jump too. My problem was Jayla's negativity toward everyone. I understand that Jones was portraying a fifth grader trying to figure out her life but she was often nasty to other people. Family or class discussion can address this but it definitely takes away from the overall story.
August 13, 2022
3.5 stars
December 29, 2023
Jayla Jumps In is fairly average middle grade fare.
Jayla learns to respect her beloved uncle's new girlfriend, navigates her mother's diagnosis and finds a way to inspire her community to double dutch.
The emotional beats were not particularly complex. Not a lot happens outside of one contest the kids lose in a way that was obvious to see coming from the moment it was introduced. Jayla's double dutch team is a vehicle for Jayla, but not an actual team to get the reader invested in; the two kids on it are given names and not much else. The teacher who let them down was never taken to task or forced to a apologize.
It's decently written book that skims a little too shallow for my tastes. Still, it wasn't exactly a hardship to read.
Jayla learns to respect her beloved uncle's new girlfriend, navigates her mother's diagnosis and finds a way to inspire her community to double dutch.
The emotional beats were not particularly complex. Not a lot happens outside of one contest the kids lose in a way that was obvious to see coming from the moment it was introduced. Jayla's double dutch team is a vehicle for Jayla, but not an actual team to get the reader invested in; the two kids on it are given names and not much else. The teacher who let them down was never taken to task or forced to a apologize.
It's decently written book that skims a little too shallow for my tastes. Still, it wasn't exactly a hardship to read.
July 17, 2020
The storyline is great! A girl develops a love for Double Dutch and ultimately encourages her mom to exercise. I struggled with Jayla’s personality and her habit of talking bad about people especially her cousin Antwon whom may have underlying reasons for his misunderstandings.
May 1, 2021
Fifth grade Jayla experiments with Double Dutch over Thanksgiving Break, with a few surprises along the way.
September 1, 2020
Lots of sass, tons of determination, and family heart mix to form a read, which leaves the legs itching to bounce themselves.
It all started with a Thanksgiving dinner and a Youtube video. Jayla had never heard of Double Dutch before, but when her cousin watches a pair of girls on her phone, Jayla wishes she could do it, too. When she discovers that her own mother was once a Double Dutch Queen and still knows more than a few tricks, Jayla's decision is made. But even after she convinces someone to help her form a team and join a competition, her struggles aren't over.
I can't remember the last middle grade novel I saw, which centered around jump roping, let alone Double Dutch. So, that already grabbed my attention. But these pages hold even more. While the sport does roll as a main theme, this one is also about family and learning to be more aware of those around you as well as recognizing their own hopes and needs.
I couldn't help but loving Jayla's family. The book starts with them, and they remain at the heart the entire way through. And I'm not talking just about the immediate family. The author brings in aunts and cousins and uncles, and it's a wonderful bunch, who's back and forth never grew boring. These people have heart and pack a punch. And yet, Jayla is at that age where she's trying to be her own person and discover who she is...which means that things don't always runs smoothly between her and the family. Especially Jalyla's mother has a special place in these pages as she struggles to manage her own health. I was impressed how this theme was addressed, naturally presented and woven in. It's clear that the mother suffers from being over-weight, but it's the health aspect which remains as the main focal point.
The dynamic of this book is simply fun and draws in. And the power of Double Dutch had me wanting to go out and try it myself...which wouldn't end well but made me smile. The only thing which struck me a little off in this story was Jayla's negative view on other people. Even when she really cares about someone, she still is quick and more than ready to point out their bad points and tends to be a bit nasty. While this offered possible character development at first, it sat the entire way through and made her into a bit of a sour apple.
But this is still a book I'd recommend and can see middle graders enjoying quite a bit. So, I'm giving it a thumbs up. I received an ARC through the author and enjoyed reading it quite a bit.
It all started with a Thanksgiving dinner and a Youtube video. Jayla had never heard of Double Dutch before, but when her cousin watches a pair of girls on her phone, Jayla wishes she could do it, too. When she discovers that her own mother was once a Double Dutch Queen and still knows more than a few tricks, Jayla's decision is made. But even after she convinces someone to help her form a team and join a competition, her struggles aren't over.
I can't remember the last middle grade novel I saw, which centered around jump roping, let alone Double Dutch. So, that already grabbed my attention. But these pages hold even more. While the sport does roll as a main theme, this one is also about family and learning to be more aware of those around you as well as recognizing their own hopes and needs.
I couldn't help but loving Jayla's family. The book starts with them, and they remain at the heart the entire way through. And I'm not talking just about the immediate family. The author brings in aunts and cousins and uncles, and it's a wonderful bunch, who's back and forth never grew boring. These people have heart and pack a punch. And yet, Jayla is at that age where she's trying to be her own person and discover who she is...which means that things don't always runs smoothly between her and the family. Especially Jalyla's mother has a special place in these pages as she struggles to manage her own health. I was impressed how this theme was addressed, naturally presented and woven in. It's clear that the mother suffers from being over-weight, but it's the health aspect which remains as the main focal point.
The dynamic of this book is simply fun and draws in. And the power of Double Dutch had me wanting to go out and try it myself...which wouldn't end well but made me smile. The only thing which struck me a little off in this story was Jayla's negative view on other people. Even when she really cares about someone, she still is quick and more than ready to point out their bad points and tends to be a bit nasty. While this offered possible character development at first, it sat the entire way through and made her into a bit of a sour apple.
But this is still a book I'd recommend and can see middle graders enjoying quite a bit. So, I'm giving it a thumbs up. I received an ARC through the author and enjoyed reading it quite a bit.
June 21, 2020
I want to jump rope! Jayla Jumps In is not just a story about an 11-year-old finding herself and her place in her family, it is an ode to Double-Dutch. (That is when two people turn two large ropes for jumpers in the middle. Google videos or go to Jones's website.) Jones's love for the sport and appreciation for its far-reaching benefits is palpable; no surprise that her Double-Dutch team inspired the book!
But about Jayla Jumps In – Jayla is 11, an only child, and upset that her favorite older relative is about to get married. She feels ignored by her family and jealous of her cousin, Shontessa, who seems to have it all. Learning to jump Double-Dutch provides her with a way to connect with her family and make a place for herself. This middle-grade novel explores themes of family and identity, empowers young readers to accept themselves, and encourages children to persevere in the face of difficulty. T has been asking me about what I've been reading, and he says that it sounds really good and that he wants to read it when he is older.
Jones is a Black author writing about a Black girl whose interests mirror her own. It's easy for this white reader to identify with Jayla – her experiences with her family and as a pre-teen are universal. But specific features of the novel highlight and celebrate her specific experience. Perhaps because race is forefront on my mind these days, I am more attuned to these aspects of the book. Jayla Jumps In is a realistic and positive #ownvoices narrative of one young girl's experience. I want to put this in the hands of middle grade girls and boys (yes, boys jump Double-Dutch, too!).
Note: A review copy was provided by Albert Whitman and Company in exchange for an honest review.
But about Jayla Jumps In – Jayla is 11, an only child, and upset that her favorite older relative is about to get married. She feels ignored by her family and jealous of her cousin, Shontessa, who seems to have it all. Learning to jump Double-Dutch provides her with a way to connect with her family and make a place for herself. This middle-grade novel explores themes of family and identity, empowers young readers to accept themselves, and encourages children to persevere in the face of difficulty. T has been asking me about what I've been reading, and he says that it sounds really good and that he wants to read it when he is older.
Jones is a Black author writing about a Black girl whose interests mirror her own. It's easy for this white reader to identify with Jayla – her experiences with her family and as a pre-teen are universal. But specific features of the novel highlight and celebrate her specific experience. Perhaps because race is forefront on my mind these days, I am more attuned to these aspects of the book. Jayla Jumps In is a realistic and positive #ownvoices narrative of one young girl's experience. I want to put this in the hands of middle grade girls and boys (yes, boys jump Double-Dutch, too!).
Note: A review copy was provided by Albert Whitman and Company in exchange for an honest review.
August 16, 2020
Advance copy from Albert Whitman & Company
There are loads of things to love about this book, including rarely-written-topics that are woven throughout the story. (Race-related health issues, multi-generational exercise, aging-out of fun!).
The plot prop of "double dutch" jumping is very effective, and I'm speaking as someone who was NOT good at it, but occasionally hit that rhythm and thwap-thwap union with the turners. The joy of those moments came to life again in this reading.
Actually, even though Jayla is a full-force middle grade character with a consistent voice, the adult-voiced characters populating the story are much more extensive than is typical in MGLit. Reading this as an adult, I was fine with that and felt the filter of Jayla's development within that process, but I did not have any MG kids around to read/discuss with at this time.
I feel certain that it will find an eager audience, is likely to inspire major double-dutch efforts and competitions, and that YouTube views of examples (and chants) will become even more popular.
This is great response to the legitimate calls for more stories of BIPOC characters living joyful, full lives. It this hits the spot with your readers, point them to Thelma Godin's picture book, Hula-Hoopin' Queen from Lee & Low.
There are loads of things to love about this book, including rarely-written-topics that are woven throughout the story. (Race-related health issues, multi-generational exercise, aging-out of fun!).
The plot prop of "double dutch" jumping is very effective, and I'm speaking as someone who was NOT good at it, but occasionally hit that rhythm and thwap-thwap union with the turners. The joy of those moments came to life again in this reading.
Actually, even though Jayla is a full-force middle grade character with a consistent voice, the adult-voiced characters populating the story are much more extensive than is typical in MGLit. Reading this as an adult, I was fine with that and felt the filter of Jayla's development within that process, but I did not have any MG kids around to read/discuss with at this time.
I feel certain that it will find an eager audience, is likely to inspire major double-dutch efforts and competitions, and that YouTube views of examples (and chants) will become even more popular.
This is great response to the legitimate calls for more stories of BIPOC characters living joyful, full lives. It this hits the spot with your readers, point them to Thelma Godin's picture book, Hula-Hoopin' Queen from Lee & Low.
April 20, 2021
Thank you @just.another.chapter.and.tea for recommending Jayla Jumps In to our buddyread #middlegradereadersbuddyread. It was a great book to read about making time as a family to eat healthy and exercise.
The story is about an only child, Jayla, who finds out at the holidays that her mom and aunt know how to Double Dutch. Not only that, but her mom was a Double Dutch champion when she was in middle school. Now, her mom is suffering from high blood pressure and needs to change her eating habits and start exercise. Jayla really wants to learn how to double dutch and starts a club at school but she still needs her mother’s help.
As Jayla continues to ask her family to help her learn how to jump, she forms special bonds with the different members of her family. Even her mom finds time to help Jayla and finds that she really misses jumping.
What I liked about this story is that it shows that if a family works together a lot can be accomplished. I also like the positive message to eat healthy and exercise too. I give this story ⭐️⭐️⭐️ stars. It was a fun and entertaining story.
The story is about an only child, Jayla, who finds out at the holidays that her mom and aunt know how to Double Dutch. Not only that, but her mom was a Double Dutch champion when she was in middle school. Now, her mom is suffering from high blood pressure and needs to change her eating habits and start exercise. Jayla really wants to learn how to double dutch and starts a club at school but she still needs her mother’s help.
As Jayla continues to ask her family to help her learn how to jump, she forms special bonds with the different members of her family. Even her mom finds time to help Jayla and finds that she really misses jumping.
What I liked about this story is that it shows that if a family works together a lot can be accomplished. I also like the positive message to eat healthy and exercise too. I give this story ⭐️⭐️⭐️ stars. It was a fun and entertaining story.
February 25, 2021
Fifth grader Jayla is stunned to discover that her mom was once the Beyonce of Double Dutch jumping. Mom starts teaching her and jumping along with Jayla, hoping to lower her high blood pressure. Annoying, showoff older cousin Shontessa insists on being included, saying she can jump better than anyone else. Jayla gets a few kids to start jumping after school. She and her mom always have a rope with them. There's always a parking lot with space for jumping and it seems everyone in town was either a jumper in their youth or wants to learn. Jayla's happy except for one thing - her favorite cousin Alonzo is getting married and Jayla does not like his fiancé Tameka. She fears that Tameka will take Alonzo away from her forever. Jayla is often frustrated by things not working according to her plans but comes to appreciate her large, "we put the "fun" in dysfunctional family". A feel good read, especially if you take time to watch a video of Double Dutch jumpers.
August 28, 2020
I devoured this middle grade novel today. Jayla is a smart kid with a newfound passion for Double Dutch and an incredibly relatable exasperation toward some of the adults in her life. Aside from the fun and extremely readable style of this book, that’s what stood out the most to me. It is tricky to be a middle grader with big ideas but only a small amount of agency. The adults in Jayla’s life don’t always make choices she approves of (at least at first), and Jayla isn’t shy about making her feelings clear. (Jayla’s take on Ms. McMillan is frankly so refreshing! Sometimes there are adults who mess up, and that’s beyond frustrating for kids whose lives are affected. I loved Jayla’s take on Ms. McMillan.) Middle grade readers will love this book.
January 20, 2023
The opening pages to this book are incredibly funny and humor continues to be interspersed throughout. Adults figure prominently into the story, a nice it-takes-a- village approach to growing up. Jayla goes after what she wants, double dutch jump rope, and finding friends, by being a leader. The book does not lean away from Jayla's nasty side, and shows Jayla wending her way through the rocks with the patience of the adults in her life not judging her for these. The adults seem to know Jayla will eventually come through and give her the time she needs. This gives the reader the space she needs to come to terms with her own not-so-nice side; changing takes time and this book gives Jayla the time and space she needs to come around to a more tolerant and grateful attitude.
October 1, 2020
With true spark and heart, Jayla forthrightly tackles her troubles in this warm and positive story that recognizes the challenges of family life and the joys of jumping rope, especially Double-Dutch style! For rope turners and jumpers new to Double Dutch, this story may just reignite some passion for this super-fun activity that's no longer just for the playground or street. It's a nationwide competitive sport, and when Jayla discovers that her own sweet mama was once the "queen" of the neighborhood jumpers, she sets out assemble a team of her own. Along the way, she discovers her own talents--and the special strengths of her complex family.
March 21, 2021
I liked how the boys and the girls were participating and the author made it seem it was pretty easy to learn- anyone could do it. It was clear how much joy double Dutch brings the author because it really came through in her writing.
I thought the characters were nicely developed, however something fell flat for me. I think the plot was a very surface level. I think some middle grade readers will enjoy this novel regardless.
I thought the characters were nicely developed, however something fell flat for me. I think the plot was a very surface level. I think some middle grade readers will enjoy this novel regardless.
March 15, 2021
Jayla was the most unlikeable character I've read in a while. The constant negativity and judgment, especially calling people "stupid" and "fat" and equating thinness to attractiveness, make this a book I would never recommend. It's flat out body shaming and not okay and Jayla learns virtually nothing, so it's not like these instances were used as teachable moments.
November 1, 2021
2.5! I appreciated the message and that the book is about a different type of sport, but I really had a hard time with jayla's voice. So, good to know about, but I don't know how often I'll recommend it.
October 31, 2020
Very adorable MG, I love her family, it almost made me want to jump rope, before I remembered who I am and how coordinated I am.
December 7, 2020
Loved the uniqueness of this book and how it captured family dynamics. Jayla was hard to like at times
March 27, 2021
Never have I been interested in jump roping of any kind... until now!
Jayla Jumps In is middle grade lit focusing on family, health, and mostly lots of Double Dutch fun!
Jayla Jumps In is middle grade lit focusing on family, health, and mostly lots of Double Dutch fun!
March 4, 2024
There is a lot to enjoy about this book. However, I have it 3 stars due to the amount of negativity that was used to describe characters, the disparaging comments about weight, and the diet talk.
July 18, 2021
I like how realistic Jayla is- not automatically the best at everything and her life is messy and real, but she still has fun. Occasionally goes a little overboard on the message of Double Dutch, but ultimately a great story about family and the value of hard work and exercise- and keeping it fun!
February 3, 2021
A fun and engaging book that hits on some important issues indirectly. It made me excited about double-dutch! The issue of a mother's high blood pressure is touched on in a believable and relevant way without taking away from the evolution of Jayla as a stronger and more insightful character by the end of the story.
Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews