Raise the Bar: A Graphic Novel

Gr 5-8–More than anything, Chilean teen Sam Sanchez wants to be like Eva Dos Santos, a (fictional) Brazilian powerlifter and Olympic champion. When it’s announced that Eva will be coming to coach weightlifting at Corazón’s High Performance Center, looking for the next Olympic champion, Sam is certain of her purpose. In a qualifying competition, despite a failed lift and battles with her misunderstanding parents and a wraithlike personification of self-doubt, Sam impresses Eva and is invited to train at HPC. Living away from home is tough, and she struggles to find her place with star American lifter Barb, fencer Karen, judoka Jojo, and queer Argentine triathlete Cris, as well as friendly Tom, son of the center’s cook. But with coaching, perseverance, and burgeoning team spirit, Sam achieves a soaring personal record. Alongside Sam’s story, Frick loads the text with background on lifting events and competition, as well as training strategy and psychology. Frick’s drawings are simple but detailed and nuanced, recalling the work of Raina Telgemeier.