Junior Ninja Champion: The Competition Begins by Catherine Hapka
Published by HMH Books for Young Readers on June 5th 2018
ISBN: 1328710580
Pages: 176
Goodreads

Based on the hit reality competition show American Ninja Warrior, this first book in what is a planned series takes a group of 5 unlikely friends through the first rounds of the junior ninja champion contest.  The kids all work out at a local gym for different reasons, some for fun, some because they’ve gotten in trouble.  But they all bond together when they find out the show is holding a junior competition and the tryouts will be near their town.  Very unlikely, 4 out of the 5 kids make the finals, and the last one makes it on as an alternate.  Book 2 will feature the group at the finals competition.  The end of the book includes an interview with American Ninja Warrior favorite competitor and teacher Allyssa Beird.  Best for grades 3-6.

Reviewed by Kara Reiman, Walker Memorial Library, Westbrook