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Skating on Mars
A heartwarming debut from author Caroline Huntoon about a young figure skater discovering who they are on and off the ice.
Life isn’t easy on twelve-year-old Mars. As if seventh grade isn’t hard enough, Mars is also grappling with the recent death of their father and a realization they never got to share with him: they’re nonbinary. But with their skates laced up and the ice under their feet, all of those struggles melt away. When Mars’ triple toe loop draws the attention of a high school hot shot, he dares them to skate as a boy so the two can compete head-to-head. Unable to back down from a challenge, Mars accepts. But as competition draws near, the struggles of life off the rink start to complicate their performance in the rink, and Mars begins to second guess if there’s a place for them on the ice at all.
Skating on Mars is a tender examination of grief and a hopeful middle grade tale of self-discovery.
"This timely, triumphant novel about figure skating, identity, loss, and love will move and entertain readers―and it might just inspire them to find their own ways to change the world. " ―Laurie Morrison, author of Up for Air and Coming Up Short
Life isn’t easy on twelve-year-old Mars. As if seventh grade isn’t hard enough, Mars is also grappling with the recent death of their father and a realization they never got to share with him: they’re nonbinary. But with their skates laced up and the ice under their feet, all of those struggles melt away. When Mars’ triple toe loop draws the attention of a high school hot shot, he dares them to skate as a boy so the two can compete head-to-head. Unable to back down from a challenge, Mars accepts. But as competition draws near, the struggles of life off the rink start to complicate their performance in the rink, and Mars begins to second guess if there’s a place for them on the ice at all.
Skating on Mars is a tender examination of grief and a hopeful middle grade tale of self-discovery.
"This timely, triumphant novel about figure skating, identity, loss, and love will move and entertain readers―and it might just inspire them to find their own ways to change the world. " ―Laurie Morrison, author of Up for Air and Coming Up Short
224 pages, Hardcover
First published May 30, 2023
8 people are currently reading
716 people want to read
About the author
Caroline Huntoon
3 books41 followersCaroline Huntoon (they/them) is a nonbinary storyteller and educator and the author of SKATING ON MARS, LINUS AND ETTA COULD USE A WIN, and GOING OVERBOARD (spring 2025), all from Feiwel and Friends/Macmillan. They grew up in Michigan but spent time in New York City to earn their B.A. at Barnard College and see as much musical theater as possible, Walt Disney World to fulfill a lifelong dream of working on The Great Movie Ride, and Vermont to earn their M.A. from The Bread Loaf School of English and eat their weight in maple creemees. Now back in Michigan, Caroline lives with their headstrong and hilarious child, Winnie, and their adorable and needy dog, Oscar David. By day they work as an English teacher and theater director, and by night they write stories for young people about loss, identity, and friendship that validate their messy and wonderful lives. Find out more about Caroline and their work at carolinehuntoon.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 57 reviews
January 11, 2023
Actual 4.5 rating stars.
Once in a while, I pick up a Middle-Grade story, and each time I’m surprised at how wonderful those books are. Skating on Mars, about a non-binary twelve-year-old figure skater, is no exception.
Caroline Huntoon drew me into Mars’ story, and I couldn’t let go. I sat on the edge of my seat and finished the book in less than 24 hours. Mars, who lost their Dad not that long ago, and never felt a girl or a boy, is a fantastic main character and skating is what they love most. And what do you do when you’re competing in a girl's competition, and an older boy dares you to skate against him? What follows is a beautifully nuanced story in which Mar searches for their identity and tries to be who they want to be without giving up what they want to do most. The character growth in this MG is outstanding, not only Mars’ but also their friends, family, and even people who were a*holes at first. And I simply loved, loved the ending!
I can’t wait to read more by Caroline Huntoon because their writing is incredibly vivid and captivating, and I’m curious about what they have in store for us next!
I received an ARC from Macmillan Children’s Publishing Group and NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
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Once in a while, I pick up a Middle-Grade story, and each time I’m surprised at how wonderful those books are. Skating on Mars, about a non-binary twelve-year-old figure skater, is no exception.
Caroline Huntoon drew me into Mars’ story, and I couldn’t let go. I sat on the edge of my seat and finished the book in less than 24 hours. Mars, who lost their Dad not that long ago, and never felt a girl or a boy, is a fantastic main character and skating is what they love most. And what do you do when you’re competing in a girl's competition, and an older boy dares you to skate against him? What follows is a beautifully nuanced story in which Mar searches for their identity and tries to be who they want to be without giving up what they want to do most. The character growth in this MG is outstanding, not only Mars’ but also their friends, family, and even people who were a*holes at first. And I simply loved, loved the ending!
I can’t wait to read more by Caroline Huntoon because their writing is incredibly vivid and captivating, and I’m curious about what they have in store for us next!
I received an ARC from Macmillan Children’s Publishing Group and NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
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November 14, 2022
I recieved an eARC of this book. Thank you for the opportunity to read it.
One of the best things about recent MG books is that, more and more, there are TGNC characters who just are, where they are accepted by peers and are part of the class project, marching band, or robotics team. Such representation is vital and imporant. And, I admit, having read young adult books involving coming out stories, I was a little nervous about the fact that Skating on Mars is a coming out story, and one involving a young athlete who is trying to find their place in a gendered sport, because it could so easily have gone to either extreme, of either being too easy, where everyone is supportive, or being just plain too miserable. Both are better than no representation at all, but aren't ideal.
Skating on Mars manages to thread the needle extremely well. Mars is a 7th grade, 12 yr old figure skater. They've skated for years, love it, but are more and more uncomfortable skating as a girl. They're also nervous about coming out to their family, their coach, at school, everyone but their best friend, Libby, who gave them the name Mars. When Libby's pairs partner challenges Mars to compete against him, as a boy, Mars takes him up on it.
This book shines in how much it shows Mars's internal struggles, where things like which locker room, or which division to compete in, have no good answers. While some in Mars's life are supportive, some are not, and some of the obstacles Mars faces are set by others, but some are completely internal.
The necessary triumph, the happy ending common to both middle grade and sports books manages to both be a victory and to be realistic. It's a feel good ending, but not one that is "happily ever after".
I believe a lot of kids, whether they're male, female, or non-binary, will find that Mars's efforts to be themself-and to figure out who they are-will be relatable and ring true. For those who are gender non-conforming, and who love sports that don't seem to have a place for them, Mars's struggles will be even more relatable.
I wish every adult who has proposed a bill that bans trans kids from playing sports as themselves, who wants to restrict kids using their pronouns and names at schools, who wants to force kids to be outed before they choose would read this book and realize that what Mars...and many other kids are asking for...is simply to be able to be themselves. This is a beautiful book. I hope it gets the chance it deserves.
One of the best things about recent MG books is that, more and more, there are TGNC characters who just are, where they are accepted by peers and are part of the class project, marching band, or robotics team. Such representation is vital and imporant. And, I admit, having read young adult books involving coming out stories, I was a little nervous about the fact that Skating on Mars is a coming out story, and one involving a young athlete who is trying to find their place in a gendered sport, because it could so easily have gone to either extreme, of either being too easy, where everyone is supportive, or being just plain too miserable. Both are better than no representation at all, but aren't ideal.
Skating on Mars manages to thread the needle extremely well. Mars is a 7th grade, 12 yr old figure skater. They've skated for years, love it, but are more and more uncomfortable skating as a girl. They're also nervous about coming out to their family, their coach, at school, everyone but their best friend, Libby, who gave them the name Mars. When Libby's pairs partner challenges Mars to compete against him, as a boy, Mars takes him up on it.
This book shines in how much it shows Mars's internal struggles, where things like which locker room, or which division to compete in, have no good answers. While some in Mars's life are supportive, some are not, and some of the obstacles Mars faces are set by others, but some are completely internal.
The necessary triumph, the happy ending common to both middle grade and sports books manages to both be a victory and to be realistic. It's a feel good ending, but not one that is "happily ever after".
I believe a lot of kids, whether they're male, female, or non-binary, will find that Mars's efforts to be themself-and to figure out who they are-will be relatable and ring true. For those who are gender non-conforming, and who love sports that don't seem to have a place for them, Mars's struggles will be even more relatable.
I wish every adult who has proposed a bill that bans trans kids from playing sports as themselves, who wants to restrict kids using their pronouns and names at schools, who wants to force kids to be outed before they choose would read this book and realize that what Mars...and many other kids are asking for...is simply to be able to be themselves. This is a beautiful book. I hope it gets the chance it deserves.
July 23, 2022
Ice-skating may be a cool sport (pun absolutely intended) but everything about this book warmed my heart. I was lucky enough to read an advanced copy and what a joy it was! I read the entire book in a single sitting, swept away by Huntoon’s ability to create powerful, realistic characters and a well-paced tender story. Mars is an enby ice skater, trying to figure out their place in a sport that they love so much. Although Mars feels most free on ice (especially as skating connects them to their recently deceased father), they don’t want to be forced into competing in traditionally gendered competitions where the skills on ice are judged by how graceful female skaters must be and how powerful male skaters must be. Can’t Mars just…be themselves and skate with all the skills and talent they have? A story about coming out, loss, friendship, and family, Huntoon has somehow folded so many themes effortlessly into a story where everyone gets to belong.
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September 30, 2022queer iceskating?? y e s .
August 3, 2023
I really loved this book, finishing it put me in such a good mood (and made me want to go ice skating)! This book is really short and pretty focused on Mars as they deal with the grief of losing their dad and their feelings about growing into a person their dad will never get to meet. I loved that this book takes a different approach to identity--their family is wonderful, their friends are supportive, but Mars doesn't feel there's room for them in the figure skating world. In a time where trans athletes are being attacked, this was a book that is uplifting without being overly positive--the structural inequalities don't become magically fixed at the end, no magical exceptions are made or rules immediately overturned. Instead, Mars finds ways to carve out space for themself amidst a system that isn't built for them. This was a really beautiful story with a BEAUTIFUL cover design that was lighthearted, a bit emotional, and fast-paced. I recommend for tweens or any adult looking for a wholesome queer middle grade.
May 6, 2022
I was lucky enough to get to read this manuscript early, and I'm so glad it did, as it became an instant MG favorite.
SKATING ON MARS has an excellent voice, the perfect balance of humor and heart (a saying that can be overused but is absolutely true in this case) and a wonderful message with great representation. The pacing is enjoyable, as it was all too easy to finish in nearly one sitting, and the writing is both beautiful and authentic.
While dealing with topics like grief, the book does so in a graceful way that doesn't take away from the overall hopeful tone. That being said, it still is powerful and emotional at times, and will stick with readers long after finishing.
Mars is a wonderful protagonist with a strong voice and sense of humor, and they are both relatable and easy to root for. The relationship they have with their mom is so well-done, healthy, and important to see in Middle Grade Fiction. The queer representation in the book is flawlessly integrated into the story, and will mean the world to so many kids (as well as adults!).
Overall, SKATING ON MARS is a fantastic read and is sure to be a classic in both LGBTQIA+ and Sports MG Fiction.
SKATING ON MARS has an excellent voice, the perfect balance of humor and heart (a saying that can be overused but is absolutely true in this case) and a wonderful message with great representation. The pacing is enjoyable, as it was all too easy to finish in nearly one sitting, and the writing is both beautiful and authentic.
While dealing with topics like grief, the book does so in a graceful way that doesn't take away from the overall hopeful tone. That being said, it still is powerful and emotional at times, and will stick with readers long after finishing.
Mars is a wonderful protagonist with a strong voice and sense of humor, and they are both relatable and easy to root for. The relationship they have with their mom is so well-done, healthy, and important to see in Middle Grade Fiction. The queer representation in the book is flawlessly integrated into the story, and will mean the world to so many kids (as well as adults!).
Overall, SKATING ON MARS is a fantastic read and is sure to be a classic in both LGBTQIA+ and Sports MG Fiction.
March 8, 2025
Skating on Mars
Overall Rating: ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ .5 (4.5/5) or 8.85/10 overall
Characters - 8
Atmosphere - 9
Writing - 9
Plot - 8
Intrigue - 9
Logic - 9
Enjoyment - 10
Overall Rating: ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ .5 (4.5/5) or 8.85/10 overall
Characters - 8
Atmosphere - 9
Writing - 9
Plot - 8
Intrigue - 9
Logic - 9
Enjoyment - 10
August 12, 2023
Super sweet middle grade read about ice skating, gender identity, navigating friendships and middle school cruelty, and grief. I picked this up for the skating aspect but stayed for the grief processing, which feels on point—shifting understandings of identities when someone important is not there to learn about it is something I've thought a lot about in the past year (though in a different context than Mars has), and it's handled in a nicely understated manner here.
Some of the gender identity stuff feels a bit more heavy handed (there are lessons here), but I think that may be reflective of the fact that not only am I not the target audience (I'm almost three times Mars's age), but Mars's generation is learning about gender identity at a much younger age than my generation did, and the lessons are correspondingly age-appropriate and sometimes simplified. (I'm not sure when I first met someone who wasn't cis—or rather, was openly not cis—but I'm guessing college, and that wasn't because I was particularly sheltered but rather because at the time we hadn't really gotten past discussing the LGB part of things. Cue a whole bunch of learning on the fly!)
It's fascinating and cool how much things have changed in a few years—fifteen years ago I was struggling to find lesbian books, let alone lesbian books that didn't involve homophobic violence, in the LGBTQ selection; ten years ago I could find trans books in the YA section at the library; now I can find books that further subvert the gender binary in the middle grade crop of books. It'll be interesting to see what comes next.
Some of the gender identity stuff feels a bit more heavy handed (there are lessons here), but I think that may be reflective of the fact that not only am I not the target audience (I'm almost three times Mars's age), but Mars's generation is learning about gender identity at a much younger age than my generation did, and the lessons are correspondingly age-appropriate and sometimes simplified. (I'm not sure when I first met someone who wasn't cis—or rather, was openly not cis—but I'm guessing college, and that wasn't because I was particularly sheltered but rather because at the time we hadn't really gotten past discussing the LGB part of things. Cue a whole bunch of learning on the fly!)
It's fascinating and cool how much things have changed in a few years—fifteen years ago I was struggling to find lesbian books, let alone lesbian books that didn't involve homophobic violence, in the LGBTQ selection; ten years ago I could find trans books in the YA section at the library; now I can find books that further subvert the gender binary in the middle grade crop of books. It'll be interesting to see what comes next.
November 29, 2022
Thank you, Macmillan Children's Publishing Group, for allowing me to read Skating on Mars early.
Wow, wow, wow! This is how a Middle Grade book should be written. Mars is such a likable character and I adored them. Caroline Huntoon perfectly pictures how difficult it is to always have to choose between men or women in our society, and that it's so important to do whatever we want to do in our life, if it's skating or something else. I can't wait to read more of their books!
Wow, wow, wow! This is how a Middle Grade book should be written. Mars is such a likable character and I adored them. Caroline Huntoon perfectly pictures how difficult it is to always have to choose between men or women in our society, and that it's so important to do whatever we want to do in our life, if it's skating or something else. I can't wait to read more of their books!
May 17, 2022
I will forever and always love any nonbinary sports novel, and this one has my whole heart! I was swept away from the start into Mars' world, where skating is EVERYTHING. It's competition and technique. It's hustle and passion. It's where Mars makes the best of friends, and where they *find* themselves...until they're forced to question if there's any room for them at all in a world that is so binary.
I was so moved by the characters in this novel. Huntoon has created a narrator who feels terribly real, and the things Mars deals with in and outside of skating are relatable. This book tackles heavy topics like grief and other types of loss, but its whimsy and joy balance the pages well. People of all ages will fall head-over-skates for this beautiful coming-of-age middle-grade story.
I was so moved by the characters in this novel. Huntoon has created a narrator who feels terribly real, and the things Mars deals with in and outside of skating are relatable. This book tackles heavy topics like grief and other types of loss, but its whimsy and joy balance the pages well. People of all ages will fall head-over-skates for this beautiful coming-of-age middle-grade story.
September 10, 2024
I don’t have much to say about this – add it to your list of great contemporary middle grade novels with nonbinary protagonists. Also, your list of contemporary middle grade novels about figure skating. Skating on Mars explores the topic of gender in athletic competitions, as Mars (who isn’t yet totally out as nonbinary) accepts a challenge to compete in a boys’ competition. Of course, the plot includes a good thread of social activism and community organizing. Another small detail I liked is that Mars has a bit of a temper which occasionally gets the better of them.
April 26, 2023
thank you to Feiwel & Friends and Netgalley for providing me with an eARC in exchange for an honest review
Was this book written for me? Because it felt like it was, and I’m so happy that it exists (I only wish that it had existed when I was Mars’ age). SKATING ON MARS combines one of my favourite things, figure skating, with a very crucial part of my identity, being nonbinary. While this is undeniably a coming out and coming-of-age story, it also allows Mars to exist as a kid along with being a queer kid. Despite being middle-grade, I truly think that this is a book worth reading for all ages, and I couldn’t recommend it enough.
When we meet Mars, they know who they are (for the most part), but that knowledge really begins and ends with them. Their dad died recently, and the weight of his not knowing weighs heavier than anyone else’s. The beauty of Mars’ story, despite the obvious elements of queerness, love, and openness, are the way in which it weaves grief into the story. Queerness and transness doesn’t exist in a vacuum from other issues, and I appreciate how that element is allowed to breathe within Mars.
Even as this book was below my reading level, I thought it was really well-written, while still being accessible to its target audiences. Mars’ story was easy to follow, and I couldn’t help but root for them along the way. Further, I really appreciated how the characters and relationships were allowed to exist in the world of middle-grade, having classic junior high feelings and drama without being excused for any form of embedded bigotry or hurt that they caused.
Another great element of this book that deserves its own mention is the variety of relationships and how well written they were. No one in the book is perfect, but they’re allowed to be multi-faceted and grow regardless. It’s a worthy showcase of many kinds of self, and many kinds of love. I think that the world needs more books like SKATING ON MARS, and I’m once again very glad that it exists now. Also it made me cry a little bit.
Was this book written for me? Because it felt like it was, and I’m so happy that it exists (I only wish that it had existed when I was Mars’ age). SKATING ON MARS combines one of my favourite things, figure skating, with a very crucial part of my identity, being nonbinary. While this is undeniably a coming out and coming-of-age story, it also allows Mars to exist as a kid along with being a queer kid. Despite being middle-grade, I truly think that this is a book worth reading for all ages, and I couldn’t recommend it enough.
When we meet Mars, they know who they are (for the most part), but that knowledge really begins and ends with them. Their dad died recently, and the weight of his not knowing weighs heavier than anyone else’s. The beauty of Mars’ story, despite the obvious elements of queerness, love, and openness, are the way in which it weaves grief into the story. Queerness and transness doesn’t exist in a vacuum from other issues, and I appreciate how that element is allowed to breathe within Mars.
Even as this book was below my reading level, I thought it was really well-written, while still being accessible to its target audiences. Mars’ story was easy to follow, and I couldn’t help but root for them along the way. Further, I really appreciated how the characters and relationships were allowed to exist in the world of middle-grade, having classic junior high feelings and drama without being excused for any form of embedded bigotry or hurt that they caused.
Another great element of this book that deserves its own mention is the variety of relationships and how well written they were. No one in the book is perfect, but they’re allowed to be multi-faceted and grow regardless. It’s a worthy showcase of many kinds of self, and many kinds of love. I think that the world needs more books like SKATING ON MARS, and I’m once again very glad that it exists now. Also it made me cry a little bit.
June 20, 2023
Thank you to NetGalley, Macmillan Children's Publishing Group, Feiwel & Friends, and Caroline Huntoon for the opportunity to read Skating on Mars in exchange for an honest review.
What an absolutely brilliant genre. Middle grade student who identifies as nonbinary struggles to find the right place they fit in and feel themselves when it comes to ice skating competitions. How can one join the girls or the boys competition when one identifies as neither male nor female?
Mars has loved skating ever since they were a small child. Their dad got them into skating, and after his passing, Mars keeps his memory alive through the technical joys of landing jumps and perfecting salchows. Being only twelve, Mars identifies as nonbinary, feeling uncomfortable with terms "girl" and "boy," as neither of them fit who they are. The are comfortable with who they are, but the hard part is sharing their true self with friends and family.
When Mars's is challenged to skate by their best friend, Libby's, skating partner, Xander, the two friends come up with an intriguing idea: lie about their age and enter the teen boys competition that Xander will be in and see how the scores match up.
The event leads to some repercussion, but also a further calling for Mars as a nonbinary skater and wanting to break down the conformity of gender for all lovers of the sport when it comes to ice skating.
This novel not only addresses breaking gender norms, but also explores family dynamics, loss, friendship, and some of the tough decisions a twelve-year-old may have to face during that age. Similar to yet another brilliant novel, Ana on the Edge, ice skating novels are becoming widely popular, especially when bringing awareness to the gender barriers that exist for people of all ages in our world. A very relatable read and an absolutely brilliant novel that any middle grade or young adult reader would love.
What an absolutely brilliant genre. Middle grade student who identifies as nonbinary struggles to find the right place they fit in and feel themselves when it comes to ice skating competitions. How can one join the girls or the boys competition when one identifies as neither male nor female?
Mars has loved skating ever since they were a small child. Their dad got them into skating, and after his passing, Mars keeps his memory alive through the technical joys of landing jumps and perfecting salchows. Being only twelve, Mars identifies as nonbinary, feeling uncomfortable with terms "girl" and "boy," as neither of them fit who they are. The are comfortable with who they are, but the hard part is sharing their true self with friends and family.
When Mars's is challenged to skate by their best friend, Libby's, skating partner, Xander, the two friends come up with an intriguing idea: lie about their age and enter the teen boys competition that Xander will be in and see how the scores match up.
The event leads to some repercussion, but also a further calling for Mars as a nonbinary skater and wanting to break down the conformity of gender for all lovers of the sport when it comes to ice skating.
This novel not only addresses breaking gender norms, but also explores family dynamics, loss, friendship, and some of the tough decisions a twelve-year-old may have to face during that age. Similar to yet another brilliant novel, Ana on the Edge, ice skating novels are becoming widely popular, especially when bringing awareness to the gender barriers that exist for people of all ages in our world. A very relatable read and an absolutely brilliant novel that any middle grade or young adult reader would love.
March 27, 2024
This was such an adorable book!! A short and sweet read about a middle schooler coming to terms with being nonbinary. They navigate their name and pronouns along the way. They also navigate friendships, dealing with life after the death of their father, and dealing with prejudice. This was such a hard warming book that I feel that kids should are questioning themselves should read. I love Mars. They are tough and unwavering in their loyalty and they gave a fighting spirit. Even though they are grieving and going through a lot with coming out, they have a passion for ice skating (which I cannot do) and work hard to show off their skills. There’s messages of acceptance, finding yourself and what you believe it, never losing who you are when things are tough, and never backing down. An important read!
June 20, 2023
Oops! Finished this in a single day….and LOVED IT. There’s not a book out there that better captures the unending coming out of queer folks or the perils of friendship in middle school. I read to learn new things and feel deeply; this book gave me both.
Mars’ story is deeply relatable as they navigate friendship and losing what’s most important to them: skating. This is a must-read!! Whether it’s grief, friendship, adolescence, or nonbinary that you’re looking to learn more about, look no further.
I’d recommend especially for parents whose children may be exploring their identity, folks who want a peek behind the curtain into the queer experience, and most importantly for queer people who aren’t a boy and aren’t a girl either, they are enby; they are themselves.
Mars’ story is deeply relatable as they navigate friendship and losing what’s most important to them: skating. This is a must-read!! Whether it’s grief, friendship, adolescence, or nonbinary that you’re looking to learn more about, look no further.
I’d recommend especially for parents whose children may be exploring their identity, folks who want a peek behind the curtain into the queer experience, and most importantly for queer people who aren’t a boy and aren’t a girl either, they are enby; they are themselves.
June 13, 2024
3.5 stars way better than I expected. I don’t really care about skating or anything athletic, but I do care about queer rep! This was pretty good! It was definitely heavy on the skating part, but it wasn’t uppity and my lack of knowledge didn’t hold me back. I love a gender-queer sports story!!
The plot as a whole was a little wishy washy like what IS the is the conflict at any given time?? Seemed like it jumped around a lot which lost some of the focus. Character growth was great and I LOVED how the MC learned to stand up for themselves and demand space!
Definitely recommend! I liked it a lot!
The plot as a whole was a little wishy washy like what IS the is the conflict at any given time?? Seemed like it jumped around a lot which lost some of the focus. Character growth was great and I LOVED how the MC learned to stand up for themselves and demand space!
Definitely recommend! I liked it a lot!
January 25, 2024
This was adorable, and there is definitely some major queer joy here. I’m not sure about how much I believe the crush’s reaction to everything, but other than that, it’s a great book about a very timely issue with trans kids in sports, although it goes beyond the typical argument into the issue with gender based categories when a kid has no gender. I think it’s a beautiful book that deals very well with a lot of issues trans/nonbinary kids are facing at this point in time.
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December 23, 2022I was lucky to read this one early and loved it. Timely, triumphant, powerful and empowering. An awesome debut! Can’t wait for more readers to meet Mars.
November 28, 2022
I liked this YA novel. The skating was reasonably well-written. The author either has first hand knowledge of the sport or did research to write a convincing novel about competitive figure skating.
The nonbinary story was well-written. I felt for the kid and what they were going through. I also enjoyed the very supportive parent. Every child should be so fortunate. I think this story will resonate with many people and will be particularly helpful to those in the nonbinary community as well as their loved ones. I liked that the characters created a skating competition that was open to all to compete on a level playing field regardless of gender.
There are plenty of social media and pop culture references in this novel, which will probably appeal to the YA target audience, which I am not. However, YA readers will probably find that these references make the story feel current and tangible.
This book would make an excellent choice for a YA/teen/tween book club. There is plenty of material here for young people to discuss. It is timely and relevant. Very well done.
Thanks to the publisher and NetGalley for an ARC of this novel in exchange for an honest review.
The nonbinary story was well-written. I felt for the kid and what they were going through. I also enjoyed the very supportive parent. Every child should be so fortunate. I think this story will resonate with many people and will be particularly helpful to those in the nonbinary community as well as their loved ones. I liked that the characters created a skating competition that was open to all to compete on a level playing field regardless of gender.
There are plenty of social media and pop culture references in this novel, which will probably appeal to the YA target audience, which I am not. However, YA readers will probably find that these references make the story feel current and tangible.
This book would make an excellent choice for a YA/teen/tween book club. There is plenty of material here for young people to discuss. It is timely and relevant. Very well done.
Thanks to the publisher and NetGalley for an ARC of this novel in exchange for an honest review.
February 2, 2023
Wow. I'm not exaggerating when I say that Skating on Mars is a landmark middle grade novel. It introduces the subject of nonbinary gender identity through a story that feels every bit as natural and lived-in as this experience already IS for countless nonbinary kids growing up today. Readers will be rooting non-stop for the witty, charming character of Mars, who skates through some major life changes as they learn to embrace their nonbinary identity and reveal this part of their life to their inner circle, and, eventually, the rest of the world around them. As for the setting, the world of figure skating is just such a brilliant place to interrogate the limitations of a gender binary—and the beautiful things that can happen when we restructure our communities in the spirit of "open competition," where everyone can come as they are and show us what they've got. This book is as powerful as it is delightful—an education and a joy.
September 16, 2023
This book has a theme worth considering in depth: Lying about our genders just to compete in a competition where only the other sex can participate will not bring about effective change. Instead, we should create our own safe spaces and competitions for trans and nonbinary folks so that they feel more welcome.
However, I have a problem with how the theme is executed. Basically, Mars decided to skate in an all-boys competition because they wanted to prove some high-school boy who taunted them wrong, and said competition only includes boys who are around 14-18 years old. In other words, it only includes high-school aged boys. Mars could've claimed to be a late bloomer 14-16 year old boy, but I don't see that happening at all. Instead, Mars went by the name Alex, which is a freaking gender-neutral name, for crying out loud! Perhaps Mars was thinking that if they look boyish enough, they would be viewed as a boy, and the name wouldn't matter. This inflexibility and not thinking things through somehow goes unnoticed until .
The news of their deceit came out, calling them by their deadname, Veronica, and referring to them by she/her pronouns, thanks to the same high-school boy who taunted them . Afterwards, a lot of people forgive them and Heather, Mars' older sister, suggests that they should all create a trans- and age-inclusive figure skating rink for everyone to compete in. I wonder how Mars is going to skate in that rank now that they are basically known as a fraud. I am going to ask a question with meta context: Why would Mars want to compete in an all-boys figure skating competition if they have never felt like either a boy or a girl in the first place? Perhaps the meta reasoning for this is for Caroline Huntoon to deliver the message of "creating a safe space for trans and nonbinary folks is much better than lying about your gender." There is no other way they can deliver it.
On the bright side, I think Mars' way of figure skating is unique. Instead of being calm and refined like most figure skaters, their style is mostly aggressive and angry. I also think that if any person would like to try figure skating, they could do so by developing their own style of figure skating, not necessarily the style that figure skating judges expect.
There is a subplot that involves of one of Libby's friends, Rasha, referring to Mars as it. That was a harrowing, yet relatable experience for Mars that is resolved in the end with friendship and understanding.
Too many nonbinary people were called "it" by people who have lived their whole lives believing in the gender binary and thus don't acknowledge the existence of trans and nonbinary people. Because of this, they refer to nonbinary people either by the pronouns given to them by birth or "it" if they really don't know the NB person's "gender." They also believe that the singular "they" is grammatically incorrect. What they don't know is that the singular "they" has been used since the 14th century; even William Shakespeare used the singular "they for his plays like Hamlet!
That's all for this review. See you later!
However, I have a problem with how the theme is executed. Basically, Mars decided to skate in an all-boys competition because they wanted to prove some high-school boy who taunted them wrong, and said competition only includes boys who are around 14-18 years old. In other words, it only includes high-school aged boys. Mars could've claimed to be a late bloomer 14-16 year old boy, but I don't see that happening at all. Instead, Mars went by the name Alex, which is a freaking gender-neutral name, for crying out loud! Perhaps Mars was thinking that if they look boyish enough, they would be viewed as a boy, and the name wouldn't matter. This inflexibility and not thinking things through somehow goes unnoticed until .
The news of their deceit came out, calling them by their deadname, Veronica, and referring to them by she/her pronouns, thanks to the same high-school boy who taunted them . Afterwards, a lot of people forgive them and Heather, Mars' older sister, suggests that they should all create a trans- and age-inclusive figure skating rink for everyone to compete in. I wonder how Mars is going to skate in that rank now that they are basically known as a fraud. I am going to ask a question with meta context: Why would Mars want to compete in an all-boys figure skating competition if they have never felt like either a boy or a girl in the first place? Perhaps the meta reasoning for this is for Caroline Huntoon to deliver the message of "creating a safe space for trans and nonbinary folks is much better than lying about your gender." There is no other way they can deliver it.
On the bright side, I think Mars' way of figure skating is unique. Instead of being calm and refined like most figure skaters, their style is mostly aggressive and angry. I also think that if any person would like to try figure skating, they could do so by developing their own style of figure skating, not necessarily the style that figure skating judges expect.
There is a subplot that involves of one of Libby's friends, Rasha, referring to Mars as it. That was a harrowing, yet relatable experience for Mars that is resolved in the end with friendship and understanding.
Too many nonbinary people were called "it" by people who have lived their whole lives believing in the gender binary and thus don't acknowledge the existence of trans and nonbinary people. Because of this, they refer to nonbinary people either by the pronouns given to them by birth or "it" if they really don't know the NB person's "gender." They also believe that the singular "they" is grammatically incorrect. What they don't know is that the singular "they" has been used since the 14th century; even William Shakespeare used the singular "they for his plays like Hamlet!
That's all for this review. See you later!
September 3, 2023
What an incredible middle grade story of believing in yourself and creating a new path when the world says there is no room for you. Mars is a character that young readers will be cheering for as they navigate the binary world of skating where men and women are separated and even scored differently as a non-binary athlete. I found it very interesting that Mars has to make a decision--whether to compete as a man or woman--in response to a challenge from a boy because the divisions split based on gender for age 13 and up. It is such an important inflection point for kids as they move into their teens and upper middle school grades. While the story asks a lot of big questions with respect to Mars's gender and how non-binary kids are treated in sport, I think readers will find the book sparking questions about all kinds of decisions they're being asked to make about who they are during this important time in their lives and whether they need to be agents of changes to create their own options. Kids need to see characters who are unapologetically confident even though they aren't perfect and the impact that gender discrimination can have on that confidence. I am so excited for them to connect with Mars in their approach to sport and life in general. You truly feel Mars's dedication, tenacity, and self-respect in this story. Amazing. The friendship issues here are heartbreaking and cringeworthy, but ultimately full of hope. The first crush scenes are very awkward, funny, and pitch perfect for middle grade. Also this is an incredible sports book. I felt like I was there on the ice with Mars, the descriptions of skating letting me see the action and feel what it is like to land a jump and pick yourself up and keep going when you don't. It was hard to watch Mars's coaches push them to find themselves through skating, in everything from how they conduct themselves on the ice to the music they choose for their program--and then claim there was no path forward unless they competed as a girl. It is a beautiful expression of the best and worst sport has to offer our children. I really hope parents and coaches read this book along with kids. Thank you so much to the publisher and NetGalley for the chance to read early. Highly recommend! Content warnings for death of a parent and gender discrimination
May 28, 2023
Mars has recently figured out that they are nonbinary and they want to go by Mars, no longer Veronica. But they still want to compete in figure skating. After all, it was something they did special with their father, who died last year. But also, they’re good at it and they enjoy it. Why should they have to stop just because it’s a hyper gendered sport?
Luckily, they have a great support system–their mom, their older sister, their new friend, and their best friend (although adamantly NOT the best friend’s new friends). Their best friend’s male pairs partner bets Mars that he’s better than them, so they signed up for the same competition–but then realized if they competed in the girls’ division, it wouldn’t be a head-to-head competition and wouldn’t prove their better. (Skating uses different criteria for male and female skaters for scoring.) So they sign up in the boys’ division. But when they are outed, the Michigan Skating Association declares that all skaters must compete in the gender division in which they were born, which is an unfair dictate.
I absolutely love the ending in which they don’t give up (of course, that wouldn’t be published!) and they don’t do the complete opposite–fight head to head with the mean boy and the mean association and win, which is usually what happens and is so unrealistic and can make readers feel overwhelmed and small. Instead, they find a very clever third way, which is normally the way to go (and can win over the administration through demonstrated results.)
This was a sweet and realistic and hopeful novel about a young adolescent finding their way in the world. You don’t have to know a thing about figure skating to enjoy it.
Luckily, they have a great support system–their mom, their older sister, their new friend, and their best friend (although adamantly NOT the best friend’s new friends). Their best friend’s male pairs partner bets Mars that he’s better than them, so they signed up for the same competition–but then realized if they competed in the girls’ division, it wouldn’t be a head-to-head competition and wouldn’t prove their better. (Skating uses different criteria for male and female skaters for scoring.) So they sign up in the boys’ division. But when they are outed, the Michigan Skating Association declares that all skaters must compete in the gender division in which they were born, which is an unfair dictate.
I absolutely love the ending in which they don’t give up (of course, that wouldn’t be published!) and they don’t do the complete opposite–fight head to head with the mean boy and the mean association and win, which is usually what happens and is so unrealistic and can make readers feel overwhelmed and small. Instead, they find a very clever third way, which is normally the way to go (and can win over the administration through demonstrated results.)
This was a sweet and realistic and hopeful novel about a young adolescent finding their way in the world. You don’t have to know a thing about figure skating to enjoy it.
Read
January 2, 2025My favorite aspect here was the family dynamics, with a mother and two kids all working through grief after the father's death. I wish we had gotten more about how things were going for the sister and the musical! But it was unclear how much time everything actually took here, so maybe there wasn't a ton happening yet.
It's hard not to compare to the other MG about a nonbinary figure skater. Ana on the Edge has an MC earlier in the process of figuring out gender things, and it was nice to see the different take on that here. Both had friend plots with two friends, with one of those feeling a little similar and one being very different. (And these are very MG-typical friend plots.)
From a skating perspective, this didn't align with how competitions are typically organized (for lower levels there is a lot of stuff not being split by gender, and open competitions aren't unheard of, but more importantly: things are split by level much more than age?), which was a little distracting.
Mars got to a point where they appreciated Jade's artistry, and they were learning some of those things from them. But their attitude of jumps above all (when they will eventually get hit on the stuff they aren't interested in both in the levels & GOE of the step sequence *and* in PCS) wasn't explicitly dispelled. There are definitely skaters who have had a lot of success down that path. It just felt like something being set up to be addressed, and the way that happened was sideways at best.
It's hard not to compare to the other MG about a nonbinary figure skater. Ana on the Edge has an MC earlier in the process of figuring out gender things, and it was nice to see the different take on that here. Both had friend plots with two friends, with one of those feeling a little similar and one being very different. (And these are very MG-typical friend plots.)
From a skating perspective, this didn't align with how competitions are typically organized (for lower levels there is a lot of stuff not being split by gender, and open competitions aren't unheard of, but more importantly: things are split by level much more than age?), which was a little distracting.
Mars got to a point where they appreciated Jade's artistry, and they were learning some of those things from them. But their attitude of jumps above all (when they will eventually get hit on the stuff they aren't interested in both in the levels & GOE of the step sequence *and* in PCS) wasn't explicitly dispelled. There are definitely skaters who have had a lot of success down that path. It just felt like something being set up to be addressed, and the way that happened was sideways at best.
Read
February 28, 2025I need to set this one aside, and it's not through any fault of the book's. The parts of it I've read - and I've read a nice chunk, and then skimmed through the rest before coming back and reading a further chunk and then skimming again - I really enjoyed. It's also a mid-grade book, so it's not like it's super heavy or difficult to get through because of content or anything. It's mildly embarrassing to admit I'm not going to finish this one, and it's entirely me, I think. Mostly it has to do with the current political situation, the increase in efforts to further marginalize LGBTQ people, most especially trans and non-binary people where I live that's making it hard to just sink into the story and enjoy it. The world in the book is more open and welcoming than the one I'm in. It's reflecting a different world - one that's still struggling, but one far, far ahead of where we currently are, sadly. Anyway, I'm happy my library did have this book, and I'm happy if my checking it out helps keeps it alive on the shelves for longer. It is unfortunate that when faced with something we don't understand, a percentage of humans react in fear and by striking out rather than with curiosity and welcome. There is nothing inherently threatening to me or my sense of self or how I present in the world by someone else opting for different pronouns or to present in the world differently than how their biology makes them appear in order to align with their true inner selves. The world needs more books like this one.
February 11, 2023
Wow (in a REALLY good way). It’s hard enough for kids to deal with just being twelve. But main character Mars has so much more going on: dealing with their father’s death, competitive skating and exploring identifying as nonbinary. All of these are closely but smoothly interlinked to result in a captivating story. What Mars is going through is complex, but their voice is simple and honest. Of course there are antagonists, but this is not a story about bullying. The list of heart-warming supporting characters engulfs the reader in a world mainly full of compassion.
This book has ALL the feels: love, grief, family, support, friendship, jealousy, crushes, disappointment, determination, enlightenment. Reading this novel lets me see only the tip of the iceberg in one person’s journey to identify as nonbinary, but I’m thankful this will be out in the world soon for those kids who deserve to see themselves in books. And for young readers in general, I imagine it will leave them with a sense of empowerment to not only demand change but also to make it happen.
I’ve never been a fan of skating, but that didn’t prevent me from enjoying reading about Mars on the ice. All readers can relate to some form of escape where we feel free to be our true selves. Now that I understand the significance, I love the white skates on the cover! I am really honoured to have been able to read an ARC of this novel.
This book has ALL the feels: love, grief, family, support, friendship, jealousy, crushes, disappointment, determination, enlightenment. Reading this novel lets me see only the tip of the iceberg in one person’s journey to identify as nonbinary, but I’m thankful this will be out in the world soon for those kids who deserve to see themselves in books. And for young readers in general, I imagine it will leave them with a sense of empowerment to not only demand change but also to make it happen.
I’ve never been a fan of skating, but that didn’t prevent me from enjoying reading about Mars on the ice. All readers can relate to some form of escape where we feel free to be our true selves. Now that I understand the significance, I love the white skates on the cover! I am really honoured to have been able to read an ARC of this novel.
Read
June 17, 2023Skating is what makes the world go 'round for Mars. It is something to be shared with their dad who recently died. Being on the ice means feeling free and in control.
As a seventh grader Mars feels out of place at school, especially since their best friend Libby is in eighth grade and establishing a new group of friends. Mars and Libby are still close, but Mars isn't included unless the activity involves skating. Libby senses something is up and convinces Mars to confess. Mars opens up and admits that they are nonbinary. For quite some time Mars has been feeling lost. Being a girl or a boy hasn't fit. When they heard about identifying as nonbinary and did some research, it seemed to answer a lot of questions.
There are a lot more questions popping up though. Should they come out to their mom and sister? Can they skate as nonbinary? What would their dad have thought about his daughter Veronica becoming his child Mars?
Author Caroline Huntoon tackles an identity issue that has recently been causing drama. As a nonbinary individual they bring a realism and understanding to Mars and the experiences they encounter. Readers will learn about Mars's identity struggles, friendship and family issues, and competitive skating. There is a little something for everyone. I highly recommend this one.
As a seventh grader Mars feels out of place at school, especially since their best friend Libby is in eighth grade and establishing a new group of friends. Mars and Libby are still close, but Mars isn't included unless the activity involves skating. Libby senses something is up and convinces Mars to confess. Mars opens up and admits that they are nonbinary. For quite some time Mars has been feeling lost. Being a girl or a boy hasn't fit. When they heard about identifying as nonbinary and did some research, it seemed to answer a lot of questions.
There are a lot more questions popping up though. Should they come out to their mom and sister? Can they skate as nonbinary? What would their dad have thought about his daughter Veronica becoming his child Mars?
Author Caroline Huntoon tackles an identity issue that has recently been causing drama. As a nonbinary individual they bring a realism and understanding to Mars and the experiences they encounter. Readers will learn about Mars's identity struggles, friendship and family issues, and competitive skating. There is a little something for everyone. I highly recommend this one.
March 31, 2023
This book was simply wonderful! Thank you NetGalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read this digital galley ahead of publication day.
Mars is a 12 year old nonbinary figure skater. They live with their mom and older sister, and the family is still grieving the loss of their father. Mars loves to skate and spends a lot of time on the ice with their best friend Libby and their coaches.
The main plot of the book revolves around Mars competing in the boys division of a local competition. Although Mars knows that they are not a girl or a boy, as they are nonbinary, a fellow skater who just so happens to be Libby's pairs partner challenges Mars to see who is the better skater. Mars and Libby, with the help of Mars' older sister Heather, decide to enter Mars in the competition.
I adored this book. Mars' family is wonderful and I really loved the relationships they had with their mom, sister, and friends. It tackles some heavy topics in a very relatable and hopeful way. It shows Mars' coming out to their family and a supportive teacher, and how to take a stand against injustice and bias. Mars together with their friends find a way to make skating inclusive for all.
Content warnings for transphobia, off page death of a parent, and grief.
Mars is a 12 year old nonbinary figure skater. They live with their mom and older sister, and the family is still grieving the loss of their father. Mars loves to skate and spends a lot of time on the ice with their best friend Libby and their coaches.
The main plot of the book revolves around Mars competing in the boys division of a local competition. Although Mars knows that they are not a girl or a boy, as they are nonbinary, a fellow skater who just so happens to be Libby's pairs partner challenges Mars to see who is the better skater. Mars and Libby, with the help of Mars' older sister Heather, decide to enter Mars in the competition.
I adored this book. Mars' family is wonderful and I really loved the relationships they had with their mom, sister, and friends. It tackles some heavy topics in a very relatable and hopeful way. It shows Mars' coming out to their family and a supportive teacher, and how to take a stand against injustice and bias. Mars together with their friends find a way to make skating inclusive for all.
Content warnings for transphobia, off page death of a parent, and grief.
May 18, 2023
Such a beautiful story. Mars knows that they are not like everyone else. Yet in a sport that is dictated by genders, where do they fit in? More importantly can they fit in? With it being such a big deal currently if trans or non-binary athletes should be allowed to compete in a group other then their birth gender, I think this book adds a perspective that many cisgender people have never really taken the time to consider. There is a space for everyone in this world if we take the time to really comprehend the other perspective. Just because a birth gender identifies someone a certain way doesn’t mean that they are not just as able or capable of competing against all other athletes outside their gendered class. I hope that this book helps anyone struggling with this disconnect in their own lives to keep on fighting to find their place. It may not be within the standard rules or arenas that have been built, but they still deserve a chance to compete in whatever field that they have been working towards if they want to.
Thank you so much to Macmillian Children’s Publishing Group and Netgalley for allowing me to read an advance copy of this title.
Thank you so much to Macmillian Children’s Publishing Group and Netgalley for allowing me to read an advance copy of this title.
December 7, 2023
Mars loves to ice skate. When they are on the ice, they are able to forget everything else. They are not easy things to forget or deal with though. They are big issues like the recent death of Mars' dad, bullies at school, and sorting through all of the additional problems that need to be dealt with when you identify as nonbinary (enby/NB) in a binary world. Things get more complicated when a boy notices Mars complete a triple toe loop. He challenges Mars to compete in an upcoming tournament - as a boy.
This debut novel beautifully handles the many complex emotions that Mars is feeling throughout the various stages and the variety of settings in the book. Secondary characters are also well-developed. Even if you are not a fan of skating, the release that Mars feels on the ice is such a relatable experience, and it so clearly exemplifies the binary world of sports and competition that people are struggling with on so many levels right now.
I showed this to some of my 6th grade students who are always asking for LGBTQIA+ novels and they were beyond thrilled to see an enby protagonist - esp. written by an enby author.
Highly recommend
This debut novel beautifully handles the many complex emotions that Mars is feeling throughout the various stages and the variety of settings in the book. Secondary characters are also well-developed. Even if you are not a fan of skating, the release that Mars feels on the ice is such a relatable experience, and it so clearly exemplifies the binary world of sports and competition that people are struggling with on so many levels right now.
I showed this to some of my 6th grade students who are always asking for LGBTQIA+ novels and they were beyond thrilled to see an enby protagonist - esp. written by an enby author.
Highly recommend
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