Graphic Novel Review: Fox Point’s Own Gemma Hopper by Brie Spangler

Posted on August 3, 2023 at 7:18 am by Gene Ambaum

Fox Point’s Own Gemma Hopper by Brie Spangler. Alfred A. Knopf / RH Graphic, 2023. 9780593428498. 263pp.

Gemma is a six-foot-tall thirteen-year-old who lives in the shadow of her brother, fourteen-year-old Teddy, a baseball star who everyone believes is destined for the major leagues. Since her mother left she’s also the one taking care of the house and her younger twin brothers while their father works two jobs. She regularly pitches to Teddy, too, so he can get in extra batting practice before leaving to play with the prestigious All-Atlantic team. But one day Gemma has had it, and instead of throwing easy pitches across home plate, she strikes Teddy out. He’s horrified because he feels like he’s never allowed to fail. But as video of the strikeout goes viral Teddy offers to help her practice pitching in hopes that if she’s amazing, they’ll have a unique appeal to baseball scouts together. Along with some friend drama at school and homework drama of her own creation, Gemma seems to have been pushed beyond caring about anything — and that’s the moment she may have a giant opportunity, baseball-wise, if she chooses to pursue it.

Spangler’s art and writing are both equally great and (minor spoiler) I love the way her brother and father support Gemma in the end.