Books in the series Check, Please!

Check, Please! Book 2: Sticks & Scones continues the heartwarming and hilarious journey of Eric "Bitty" Bittle during his junior and senior years at Samwell University. As a former figure skater turned hockey player and expert baker, Bitty navigates the complexities of a long-distance relationship with Jack Zimmerman, the pressures of being a team captain, and the bittersweet reality of graduation. This graphic novel masterfully blends the high-energy world of college sports with tender, personal moments of growth and self-acceptance.

Perfect for readers who love Heartstopper or Fence, this volume concludes Bitty's college saga with the same charm, humor, and "swompetition" that fans fell in love with in the first book. It is an ideal choice for older teens and young adults interested in positive LGBTQ+ representation, found-family dynamics, and stories that celebrate being true to oneself. Whether you are here for the hockey action or the delicious pie recipes, Bitty’s story offers a comforting and uplifting reading experience.

Highlights:

• Heartwarming LGBTQ+ romance and coming-out journey.
• Engaging sports-themed narrative centered on college hockey.
• Focus on friendship, teamwork, and the "found family" trope.
• Beautifully illustrated graphic novel format with a humorous tone.

Check, Please! Book 1: #Hockey is a delightful and heartwarming graphic novel that follows Eric "Bitty" Bittle, a former junior figure skating champion who starts his freshman year at Samwell University. Bitty is a vlogger and an expert baker who suddenly finds himself navigating the rough-and-tumble world of college hockey. This book is perfect for readers who love stories about finding your place, the bonds of teammates, and the sweet transition from high school to adulthood.

Ideal for fans of sports stories and character-driven narratives, Ngozi Ukazu’s work combines humor with genuine emotion. As Bitty deals with his fear of "checking" on the ice, he builds deep friendships with his eccentric teammates and develops a slow-burn crush on the team’s brooding captain, Jack Zimmermann. It is a great choice for those looking for positive LGBTQ+ representation and stories that celebrate being yourself in unexpected environments.

Highlights:

• Heartwarming exploration of "found family" within a college sports team.
• Engaging mix of sports action, baking tutorials, and social media vlogging.
• Positive and inclusive storytelling with a focus on mental health and identity.
• Beautifully illustrated graphic novel format that is accessible and fun to read.