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Catching waves on her board, Joss is all in, 100%. When the surf’s up, she pops out her hearing aid, hops on her board, and paddles into the waves. Joss is stoked to enter a surfing video contest with her surf sister Sofia and Murph the surfing bulldog. If she can master a killer aerial like the frontside air and get her brother Dylan to catch it on video, maybe she’d even have a shot at winning. But Dylan throws her a curve: he dares her to try out for the cheer team. No way—Joss can’t see herself as a cheerleader. (What’s with those ginormous hairbows, anyway?) She’s 100% surfer girl, and Dylan knows it! Still, if she takes him up on his dare, then maybe he’ll help her with her video—it’s worth a try, right?
152 pages, Paperback
First published December 26, 2019
13 people are currently reading
208 people want to read
About the author
Erin Falligant
86 books22 followersAs an American Girl author and editor, Erin Falligant has developed books across a number of series, including Angelina Ballerina, Hopscotch Hill School, and American Girls Short Stories. While writing Braving the Lake, a story with more than 20 endings, she had great fun imagining the many paths the story could take. She views the Innerstar University™ books as “wonderfully challenging to write and a great teaching tool for readers, who can read the stories again and again to find out how the decisions they make lead to different outcomes.” Ms. Falligant has a master's degree in child clinical psychology and coaches Girls on the Run, where she helps girls build self-confidence and create paths of their own near her home just outside of Madison, Wisconsin.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 55 reviews
October 11, 2020
I’ll give it to this author. She actually made me really care about what happened to Joss and Sofia.
Joss and Sophia are ten year olds who surf in Huntington Beach, CA. When presented with the opportunity to meet their surf idol by entering and winning a video contest, they put their all into it. Well, into their own goals. However, a few curveballs are thrown at them that threaten to tear apart their friendship, and threaten their ability to win the contest and meet their idol.
Of course I wanted them to win the contest. I wanted Joss to land her trick. But most of all I wanted Joss to be able to do everything that made her happy and for Sofia to support it. I also wanted them to be the bigger person towards each other and apologize when they caught and support the other.
Joss and Sophia are ten year olds who surf in Huntington Beach, CA. When presented with the opportunity to meet their surf idol by entering and winning a video contest, they put their all into it. Well, into their own goals. However, a few curveballs are thrown at them that threaten to tear apart their friendship, and threaten their ability to win the contest and meet their idol.
Of course I wanted them to win the contest. I wanted Joss to land her trick. But most of all I wanted Joss to be able to do everything that made her happy and for Sofia to support it. I also wanted them to be the bigger person towards each other and apologize when they caught and support the other.
April 14, 2021
i love this book so much. I WANT THE AMERICAN GIRL DOLL JOSS NOW!!!!!!! its about a surfer girl named joss who joins the cheer team to learn a trick for surfing. it has a great lesson in it. i recommend this book to everybody!!!!!!
April 13, 2021
Joss Kendrick lives in Huntington Beach, she loves to surf with her best friend Sofia, and her brothers Liam and Dylan. Joss has a hearing disability where she is deaf in one of her ears. Sofia loves to make beach art with sticks, rocks and beach trash that she later throws away. Joss and Sophia finds out that their idol Tina Hart is hosting a contest where the participants submit a video to Tina and if they win they can surf with Tina Hart. Sofia and Jiss decide they will do the contest together, Joss however needs someone to film the video, Dylan has aamazing camera that they can use, but he makes a deal with her. Just must make a cheer team for Dylan to be able to film her video. after trial and error with cheer just makes the team, Sophia is not thrilled about this, it means just won’t be able to surf as much because she has to practise for cheer. this makes Joss and Sofia fight and almost stop being friends. WhileJss was trying to hit a trick in the water she bumps into Dylan‘s best friend Nico hurting his ankle, Nico is now not able to participate in the contest and Dylan does not have a partner. Dylan joins the girls and they create an great video and win the contest. I like this book, I am a cheerleader and I know how Joss was struggling when trying to get her skills. I recommend this to anyone who likes surfing or cheer, and people from the ages of 9-15!
February 8, 2024
I loved this book! My favorite character was Joss. I like that she is hard working and doesn’t give up and tries new things like cheerleading and a new surf trick. I would totally recommend this to one of my friends!
March 7, 2022
When I learned that Joss was hard of hearing, I had to get the doll. I love that AG is becoming more diverse with its characters! The accompanying book did a good job of portraying Joss's hearing loss and how she navigates her world. I know nothing about surfing and very little about cheerleading so I couldn't picture all the tricks described, but I loved learning all the terminology and that the book emphasized both sports require a lot of hard work and athleticism.
I wish I knew of a book like this when I was younger. I am ashamed to admit I had a similar attitude about cheerleaders when I was Joss's age. The condescending attitude toward both surfers and cheerleaders did get a little old a little fast, though. I guess I'm just super tired of the "mean girl is mean to MC for no reason" trope. Also the "you can't be two things!!" conflict got pretty repetitive after a while. I realize it's a normal conflict at this age for kids to struggle with, but even so it makes no sense in the context of the story since Joss had plenty of examples in her life of people having two interests/activities.
Joss's self-centeredness and stubbornness can be a bit much sometimes, but she does learn and grow and overall the book teaches some good lessons for the targeted age group.
I wish I knew of a book like this when I was younger. I am ashamed to admit I had a similar attitude about cheerleaders when I was Joss's age. The condescending attitude toward both surfers and cheerleaders did get a little old a little fast, though. I guess I'm just super tired of the "mean girl is mean to MC for no reason" trope. Also the "you can't be two things!!" conflict got pretty repetitive after a while. I realize it's a normal conflict at this age for kids to struggle with, but even so it makes no sense in the context of the story since Joss had plenty of examples in her life of people having two interests/activities.
Joss's self-centeredness and stubbornness can be a bit much sometimes, but she does learn and grow and overall the book teaches some good lessons for the targeted age group.
January 28, 2021
I'm obviously not the intended audience for this book, but even if I was, I would probably only give it 3 stars. I've never been interested in cheer or surfing, so I had a hard time visualizing when the author described the jumps/tricks. This book also contained the tired-and-true American Girl of Today trope of the friendship fight, which is never a favorite of mine. The most interesting facet of the character to me was her deafness, and the creative ways she coped with it. I really liked the idea of QT (quiet time), which was basically Joss's version of mindfulness. Overall, solid juvenile fare, but nothing for me to get too excited about.
January 5, 2025
The book was really good and if you like to read American Girl you need to read this.
July 31, 2025
Deaf reader reviewing books with deaf characters. This book is listed on my ranked list of books with deaf characters.
This hearing author acknowledges the help of multiple deaf consultants and sensitivity readers, including Deaf surfer Crystal da Silva, which explains the excellent representation all the way through.
Joss was born deaf in her left ear and can hear some in right ear, which is amplified with a hearing aid. She cannot wear it in the surf. She has super realistic communication dynamics: She communicates in speech and ASL, though does not sim-com, which her brother Dylan does. Her mom supports her own speech with a sign here and there. Her friend Sofia doesn’t sign. Joss uses speechreading and struggles when there is background noise or when speakers turn their faces away.
Refreshingly, Joss is not totally deaf without her aid (except when she loses it on the trampoline, which I think was more due to her embarrassment and panic—not wanting to talk to anyone—than not actually being able to hear).
She also showcases some more realistic use of deaf assistive tech, such as the FM mic with her cheer coach.
I like that Joss is comfortable in her identity as a deaf person, which helps serve to normalize it and to model to hearing readers how to interact with deaf children they may encounter. Rather than yet another story about a deaf character finding their "voice," Joss is growing as an athlete, expanding from surfer to cheerleader and seeing how these play off one another, and naturally navigating tension with her best friend and brother when they enter a competition together.
This hearing author acknowledges the help of multiple deaf consultants and sensitivity readers, including Deaf surfer Crystal da Silva, which explains the excellent representation all the way through.
Joss was born deaf in her left ear and can hear some in right ear, which is amplified with a hearing aid. She cannot wear it in the surf. She has super realistic communication dynamics: She communicates in speech and ASL, though does not sim-com, which her brother Dylan does. Her mom supports her own speech with a sign here and there. Her friend Sofia doesn’t sign. Joss uses speechreading and struggles when there is background noise or when speakers turn their faces away.
Refreshingly, Joss is not totally deaf without her aid (except when she loses it on the trampoline, which I think was more due to her embarrassment and panic—not wanting to talk to anyone—than not actually being able to hear).
She also showcases some more realistic use of deaf assistive tech, such as the FM mic with her cheer coach.
I like that Joss is comfortable in her identity as a deaf person, which helps serve to normalize it and to model to hearing readers how to interact with deaf children they may encounter. Rather than yet another story about a deaf character finding their "voice," Joss is growing as an athlete, expanding from surfer to cheerleader and seeing how these play off one another, and naturally navigating tension with her best friend and brother when they enter a competition together.
January 22, 2020
One of the recent post trends in the world of Deaf social media entails the American Girl: Girl of the Year 2020, Joss, and how she wears a hearing aid due to her partial deafness. Given that I was a girl of the 90s who owned several dolls and items from the American Girl brand, and my goal to read every book in my library that includes characters on every side of hearing spectrum, I decided to give the new series a try.
Although the book is clearly aimed at a specific age group (9-11 years of age), in part due to the choice and the flow of words and the plot, I have to admire the positive lessons and experiences Joss and her friends and family have even if they are in the wake of not so positive moments.
I was glad to see how much consultation was used for this story, since it is vital to have authenticity in any lead character for younger and older audiences. With diverse and authentic representation anyone can be and feel like a hero because they identify with someone else who mirrors their thoughts, feelings, and experiences. Falligant sought out the advice and stories of several notable names in the Deaf community, the surfing community, and the cheerleading community. Due to this research and effort readers will respect these lives and interests whether they are their own or not.
First there was the introduction of the wheelchair accessory for dolls, and later the red tipped cane. I hope the hearing aid is far from the last 'accessory' to be included in toys and books aimed at the younger generation. From the looks of it, and the responses from the Deaf and the disabled community as well as the abled community, it will not be.
Although the book is clearly aimed at a specific age group (9-11 years of age), in part due to the choice and the flow of words and the plot, I have to admire the positive lessons and experiences Joss and her friends and family have even if they are in the wake of not so positive moments.
I was glad to see how much consultation was used for this story, since it is vital to have authenticity in any lead character for younger and older audiences. With diverse and authentic representation anyone can be and feel like a hero because they identify with someone else who mirrors their thoughts, feelings, and experiences. Falligant sought out the advice and stories of several notable names in the Deaf community, the surfing community, and the cheerleading community. Due to this research and effort readers will respect these lives and interests whether they are their own or not.
First there was the introduction of the wheelchair accessory for dolls, and later the red tipped cane. I hope the hearing aid is far from the last 'accessory' to be included in toys and books aimed at the younger generation. From the looks of it, and the responses from the Deaf and the disabled community as well as the abled community, it will not be.
February 17, 2022
“You can do more than one thing…that’s what makes you YOU.” Don’t let others tell you how to be.
A feel good story about a deaf and hard of hearing ten year old, who uses cheerleading to help her with surfing techniques.
The back of the book includes a glossary of surfing and cheerleading terms. It’s very helpful if you know nothing about these sports.
The illustrations really brought the story to life! I wanted to jump right in and be at the beach making art with Sofia.
The author really highlighted Joss’s hearing loss throughout her journey. As a deaf and hard of hearing child/adult myself, I could relate 100% with her communication struggles.
Overall, wonderful narrative of the importance of friendship, being respectful towards others, doing what you love while having fun doing it, and staying true to who you are. It’s all about the journey. Not the destination.
A feel good story about a deaf and hard of hearing ten year old, who uses cheerleading to help her with surfing techniques.
The back of the book includes a glossary of surfing and cheerleading terms. It’s very helpful if you know nothing about these sports.
The illustrations really brought the story to life! I wanted to jump right in and be at the beach making art with Sofia.
The author really highlighted Joss’s hearing loss throughout her journey. As a deaf and hard of hearing child/adult myself, I could relate 100% with her communication struggles.
Overall, wonderful narrative of the importance of friendship, being respectful towards others, doing what you love while having fun doing it, and staying true to who you are. It’s all about the journey. Not the destination.
September 1, 2020
I really loved this book! This book is defiantly a inspiration fo other 11 year old girls like me! I am a big fan of American girl and I have three dolls already! I have Joss (2020) Blarie (2019) Luciana (2018). This book inspires me to do the two things I love, reading and karate! I love how there are some drama and teamwork in the story of Joss Kendrick, where she learns that she is not 100% surfer and not 100% cheerleader...But that she is is 100% both! I definitely recommend this book for 8-12 year olds! I can't wait to read the next story of Joss Kendrick!!!
If you enjoyed my review then keep looking for more to come soon!
From, EmmaReadz!
If you enjoyed my review then keep looking for more to come soon!
From, EmmaReadz!
October 16, 2020
In the book, Joss deals with friendship troubles as she gets caught up with one trick she wants to learn for a surf contest video that she and her bff, Sofia, are supposed to be working on. Joss is also dared by her brother, Dylan, to try out for cheer. When her perspective of cheer is broadened, Joss starts to become interested in continuing despite fearing that it will mean she’s not a 100% surfer girl anymore.
This book deals with friendship troubles, trying new things and broadening your perspective, and learning that it’s okay to have more than one passion/hobby.
Overall I really enjoyed this book.
This book deals with friendship troubles, trying new things and broadening your perspective, and learning that it’s okay to have more than one passion/hobby.
Overall I really enjoyed this book.
June 26, 2020
Another great story to add to the American Girl catalogue. Ms. Falligant celebrates differences with Joss’s story, firstly by creating a hearing impaired character. She also helps children to embrace their passions, whether it’s one or more. Joss is a surfer girl and a cheerleader. Creativity is a wonderful theme found throughout the book. I really loved the Surfer’s Code—Give respect to gain respect. It’s a life lesson we can all learn to live by. I can’t wait to continue Joss’s journey with my daughters in Touch the Sky.
July 31, 2025
(4.5 stars) A really cute read! I read it with my 8 year old daughter and it was a good story for her age. I enjoyed that she was pulled between two different hobbies and friendships. I also appreciated the story from her perspective of being deaf in one ear.
Downsides were the fact that she was a little too star crazy over Tina Hart. I don't want my kids to idolize celebrities but instead see them as really talented normal people. I also wish they didn't have phones as 10-year-olds.
Overall the story was great working through friendship conflicts and not giving up.
Downsides were the fact that she was a little too star crazy over Tina Hart. I don't want my kids to idolize celebrities but instead see them as really talented normal people. I also wish they didn't have phones as 10-year-olds.
Overall the story was great working through friendship conflicts and not giving up.
August 17, 2020
I read this to my daughter and she absolutely loved the story! (My level of enthusiasm wasn't as over-the-top as her's!) It really is a well-crafted story about trying new things, having a can-do attitude, and being willing to change perspectives and plans. The drive of Joss and her friend Sophia to put together an amazing video for the contest and the challenges they face were relatable. I felt that this was just a great book with some solid lessons for girls.
February 9, 2021
This book was adorable! I never thought I’d like a book about an American Girl doll who’s hearing impaired and a surfer from Huntington Beach AND a cheerleader. But... it was really good. Brooklyn and I loved Joss’s story, and her surf buds from the Break are real and well developed characters. Joss’s cheerleading squad is also full of dynamic characters. Definite must-read for American Girl doll lovers.
February 10, 2021
I read this book with my 9-year-old daughter and was surprised to find myself thinking about it in between our readings! It's SO refreshing to read a well-written kids book that tells a compelling story. I love that Joss's hearing impairment is just a natural part of her story, rather than being the WHOLE story. It helps children learn to accept and look beyond others' disabilities. This book also teaches valuable lessons about friendship, family, hard work and teamwork.
October 24, 2021
So far this has been my least favorite personality wise out of all the girls I've read. I can understand the want to have multiple interests, but the being stuck that you can only be one thing got reaal old reaal fast.
I found myself kinda struggling because of how one note this was. This book should have been way shorter to get to the point.
I'll read the second one to say I've read them all, but I'm not looking forward to it.
I do like the hearing aid inculsion though!
I found myself kinda struggling because of how one note this was. This book should have been way shorter to get to the point.
I'll read the second one to say I've read them all, but I'm not looking forward to it.
I do like the hearing aid inculsion though!
March 2, 2021
I did quite enjoy it. There were parts that I’m not sure if I’d call realistic, namely, Joss being torn between two things. (Would that be a problem for kids in real life nowadays?) But overall, it reminded me of a Disney Channel movie, or something in the (realistic) vein of the movie, Aquamarine. And I like that.
July 2, 2021
This was a cute one, I appreciate that they incorporated a girl with a disability, it has my kids asking questions, which is great. This character does have some kind if self-centered moments, but at least she does eventually realize where she is wrong and experience some personal growth and change.
January 29, 2020
Joss conquers a common struggle to balance competing interests and find her identity. Is she a surfer or a cheerleader? We also appreciated the look into life with a hearing impairment, lost hearing aids and all!
May 28, 2023
Man, I really did not like this one. The story was slow, it didn't get me even minutely interested in either surf or cheer. The characters were also not really likeable. I definitely didn't get attached to them like normal AG books.
March 23, 2020
Read this one as a family read aloud. Had a few funny parts and wish there had been much more. It was a pretty typical AG book.
July 7, 2020
5 star book and I really really loved this book!⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️I love the ocean and cheerleading,so if your like me this book is for you! 🏄♀️
-Lily
-Lily
September 3, 2020
Amazing book! Very inspirational.
September 18, 2020
Such a cute story!!
December 1, 2020
The descriptions of what it’s like to be a kid with a hearing aid are spot on.
December 3, 2020
My daughter loved this book and asked me to read it. The messages for young girls (and all of us really) about being true to yourself are great. I highly recommend this book!
December 29, 2020
For my sixth birthday, I received the Joss American Girl doll and book. I was so happy!
January 2, 2021
I absolutely loved it it was a great book not just about surfing but about cheerleading too.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 55 reviews