Hot Pink Zebras

By Tom Campbell

Hot Pink Zebras is a heartwarming and empowering middle-grade novel about resilience, friendship, and the unifying power of sports. The story follows Kelly, a passionate young softball player who dreams of making a competitive travel team. When she and her best friends are unexpectedly cut from tryouts they're devastated. But with the encouragement of Uncle Jake, a once-famous baseball ballplayer now struggling with personal demons, Kelly decides to start a team: the Hot Pink Zebras.

What begins as an idea quickly turns into a mission. Kelly, Uncle Jake, and her friends recruit players, gather equipment, find practice space, and even design vibrant hot pink zebra-striped uniforms in honor of Kelly's late Aunt Janet, who died of breast cancer. Along the way, they gain the support of a colorful assistant coach named Marky, a stern but talented pitching coach named Coach Red, and a generous local sponsor.

As the Zebras grow in skill and spirit, they face setbacks, challenges, and doubts, especially when competing against seasoned teams like the Rebels. But they also discover the value of teamwork, perseverance, and finding joy in the game. At the heart of the story is Kelly's relationship with Uncle Jake, whose journey toward redemption parallels the team's rise. Through scrimmages, fundraisers, and unforgettable moments, the Hot Pink Zebras become more than just a team, they become a family.

The novel beautifully blends themes of loss, growth, community, and hope, making it an inspiring read for any young athlete or dreamer.

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: B0F7M3BKZ5
• ISBN13: 9798313581699
• Release Date: May 2025
• Publisher: Independently Published
• Length: 186 Pages
• Weight: 0.42 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.4" x 5.0" x 8.0"