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Blink 3 of 8 - The 5 AM Club
by Robin Sharma
Check, Please! Book 1 summary
Ngozi Ukazu
Brief summary
Check, Please! is a heartwarming graphic novel by Ngozi Ukazu that follows the journey of Eric Bittle as he navigates college life, friendship, and love while pursuing his passion for ice hockey and baking.
Topics
Table of Contents
Check, Please! Book 1
Summary of key ideas
The Beginning of a Hockey Journey
In Check, Please! Book 1 by Ngozi Ukazu, we are introduced to Eric Bittle, a former junior figure skating champion from Georgia, who is now a freshman at Samwell University. Bittle is also a talented amateur pâtissier and a vlogger, who is trying to adjust to his new life as a member of the Samwell University hockey team. Despite his small stature, Bittle is determined to prove himself on the ice.
Bittle soon gets acquainted with his new teammates, including the enigmatic team captain, Jack Zimmermann. Initially, Bittle is intimidated by the team's physical play, but his quick feet and sharp reflexes help him keep up. As the book progresses, we witness Bittle's growth as a player, his developing friendships with his teammates, and his growing infatuation with Jack.
Challenges and Triumphs
As Bittle navigates through his freshman year, he faces numerous challenges, both on and off the ice. He struggles to keep up with the demanding hockey schedule, maintain his grades, and deal with his fear of physical contact during games. Despite these challenges, Bittle finds solace in his love for baking and his growing friendships with his teammates, who support and encourage him at every step.
On the ice, Bittle's skills continue to improve, and he starts to earn the respect of his teammates and opponents alike. His unique playing style and his ability to read the game make him a valuable asset to the team. Bittle also starts to open up about his past and his struggles, revealing a more vulnerable side to his cheerful and upbeat persona.
Exploring Identity and Relationships
As Bittle settles into his new life, he also begins to explore his identity and sexuality. He starts to acknowledge his growing feelings for Jack, who is not only his captain but also a talented player with a complicated past. Their relationship starts to evolve from a mentor-mentee dynamic to a deeper and more complex connection, adding a layer of emotional depth to the story.
Additionally, Bittle's identity as a gay man is also explored, as he comes out to his friends and teammates. The book beautifully captures the challenges and triumphs of coming out, and the importance of acceptance and support from friends and loved ones. Bittle's journey towards self-acceptance and embracing his true identity forms a significant part of the narrative.
A Journey of Growth and Friendship
In the end, Check, Please! Book 1 is not just a story about hockey, but a heartfelt exploration of friendship, identity, and self-discovery. Bittle's growth as a player, his deepening relationships with his teammates, and his journey towards self-acceptance are all beautifully depicted. The book ends with a cliffhanger, leaving us eager to follow Bittle's journey in the next installment.
In conclusion, Check, Please! Book 1 is a delightful and heartwarming graphic novel that beautifully captures the complexities of college life, the thrill of sports, and the richness of human relationships. It is a story that celebrates individuality, friendship, and the courage to be true to oneself.
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What is Check, Please! Book 1 about?
Check, Please! Book 1 by Ngozi Ukazu is a delightful graphic novel about a former figure skater turned college hockey player named Eric Bittle. Filled with humor, friendship, and romance, this coming-of-age story explores Bitty's experiences on and off the ice as he navigates his love for baking, his identity, and his feelings for his brooding teammate, Jack. It's a heartwarming tale that will leave you smiling from ear to ear.
Check, Please! Book 1 Review
Check, Please! Book 1 (2018) by Ngozi Ukazu is a delightful graphic novel following a former figure skater turned college hockey player navigating friendships, romance, and personal growth. Here's what makes this book a standout choice:
- Full of heartwarming relationships and diverse characters, it offers a refreshing take on sports and LGBTQ+ representation.
- The perfect blend of humor and emotional depth keeps readers engaged and invested in the characters' journeys.
- Through its engaging storytelling and charming illustrations, the book effortlessly captures the ups and downs of college life and self-discovery.
Who should read Check, Please! Book 1?
Readers who enjoy heartwarming coming-of-age stories
Hockey fans looking for a relatable and entertaining narrative
Those interested in LGBTQ+ representation and diverse characters
Categories with Check, Please! Book 1
Book summaries like Check, Please! Book 1
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Check, Please! Book 1 FAQs
What is the main message of Check, Please! Book 1?
The main message of Check, Please! Book 1 revolves around friendship, growth, and pursuing passion.
How long does it take to read Check, Please! Book 1?
Reading Check, Please! Book 1 takes a few hours. The Blinkist summary can be read in under 15 minutes.
Is Check, Please! Book 1 a good book? Is it worth reading?
Check, Please! Book 1 is worth reading for its heartwarming story, diverse characters, and engaging plot.
Who is the author of Check, Please! Book 1?
The author of Check, Please! Book 1 is Ngozi Ukazu.
What to read after Check, Please! Book 1?
If you're wondering what to read next after Check, Please! Book 1, here are some recommendations we suggest:
- Fast Food Nation by Eric Schlosser
- Lean In by Sheryl Sandberg
- Eating Animals by Jonathan Safran Foer
- Happiness by Richard Layard
- The Wisdom of Crowds by James Surowiecki
- The Omnivore's Dilemma by Michael Pollan
- Simply Complexity by Neil F. Johnson
- Trust Me, I’m Lying by Ryan Holiday
- The World Without Us by Alan Weisman
- The Paradox of Choice by Barry Schwartz