Just Skating By

A fast-paced novel in verse starring a fifth-grade hockey player whose outsized emotions and outbursts could cost her more than just playing time.

Bobi Jean Spry is a wiz at math and a caring big sister, but on the ice playing hockey is where she really shines. So when Coach warns her to get her outsized temper in check or she’s off the team, Bobi Jean knows she’s got to make a change. Much more than hockey is at stake—she’s at risk of losing her friends, too. The good news is Bobi Jean has a lot of people who love and support her. She’s not sure she can do it, but she knows she has to try.

This follow-up from Alma Fullerton, author of Flipping Forward Twisting Backward, also features an athlete who faces challenges in school. The verse format and illustrations throughout make this a highly appealing choice for young middle grade readers.

Standard and Primary covers are widely available through general retailers. They often have higher print runs and can be cheaper, especially during sales.

In contrast, Direct Market (DM) and variant covers are primarily sold in comic shops. DM editions tend to have more limited availability and may be more valuable to collectors.

The main differences lie in artwork style, availability, price, and collector appeal. Ultimately, the choice between standard and variant covers depends on personal preference, budget, and individual collecting goals.

Comic book enthusiasts have various formats to choose from when collecting their favorite stories.
Here's a brief overview of the main types:

Omnibus

• Large, hardcover collections
• Usually contain complete runs or extensive story arcs
• Typically 800-1000+ pages
• Higher price point, often €100-€150

Oversized Hardcover (OHC)

• Similar dimensions to omnibus, but thinner
• Collect shorter runs or story arcs
• Usually 300-600 pages
• Priced between €30-€50

Hardcover (HC)

• Standard-sized hardcover books
• Collect 6-12 issues typically
• Similar dimensions to single issues, but with a hard cover
• Priced around €25-€35

Trade Paperback (TP)

• Softcover collections
• Standard comic book size
• Usually collect 4-6 issues
• Most affordable option, typically €15-€25

Other Formats

• Absolute Editions: Oversized, deluxe hardcovers (mainly DC Comics)
• Compendiums: Massive paperback collections
• Graphic Novels (OGN/GN): Original stories not previously released as single issues

The choice between these formats often depends on personal preference, budget, and collecting goals. Omnibus and OHC editions offer larger artwork and more content but at a higher price, while TPs provide a more affordable way to collect complete story arcs