Tennis powerhouses like Serena Williams and Maria Sharapova make it difficult to believe that tennis was originally a man’s sport. Since the early twentieth century, however, girls and women of all ages and skill levels have secured a permanent place on the tennis court. After discussing the history of women in the sport and the importance of Title IX, this exciting primer describes the rules, equipment, and skills required to play. Readers will learn how to grip, volley, and swing their way to an invigorating match. Profiles of key players, past and present, will interest tennis novices and pros alike.

In 'The Meadow-Brook Girls on the Tennis Courts; Or, Winning Out in the Big Tournament' by Janet Aldridge, readers are taken on a thrilling journey with a group of young girls as they navigate the competitive world of tennis tournaments. Aldridge's writing style is vivid and engaging, capturing the excitement of the matches and the determination of the characters. Set in the early 20th century, the book provides a glimpse into the societal norms and expectations of the time, while also highlighting the girls' resilience and passion for the game. The descriptions of the matches are detailed and immersive, making readers feel as though they are right there on the court with the characters. Janet Aldridge's storytelling is both entertaining and insightful, offering readers a valuable perspective on the challenges and triumphs of young women in a male-dominated sport during this era. Fans of historical fiction, sports fiction, and strong female protagonists will thoroughly enjoy this captivating tale of friendship, competition, and perseverance.

Alexis is only 13, but she made the varsity tennis team. She's thrilled, but not everyone is happy for her--two of the older girls think Alexis ruined the season for their friend, who didn't make the team. The older girls are out to make Alexis's season terrible. Can she keep up her self-confidence and step up to the net, or will she let the girls get to her and lose everything?