Finding a new hobby
The theme of finding a new hobby plays a central role in the novel as it entices Astrid to go on a journey of self-discovery. Astrid's introduction to roller derby happens by chance during a night out with her mom. Initially, she is put off by the roller derby; instead, she takes a liking to the roller derby because of the sport's energy, camaraderie, and boldness. For Astrid, who has lived a fairly uniform life, it is new and different. Astrid dives into the sport headfirst, emboldened by her love of it and the fact that she has found a new hobby. Ultimately, and perhaps most importantly, it allows her to gain a completely different perspective from the things she has previously enjoyed.
Dealing with new friends
Astrid's friendship with Nicole faces tension as the two begin to diverge in terms of their interests. Previously, they enjoyed the same things; however, once Astrid became interested in roller derby, they began to drift apart and pursue different interests. Additionally, as Astrid becomes more involved in roller derby, she befriends Zoey, who is also interested in roller derby and attends the same camp as Astrid. This process of making a new friend and doing roller derby is new for Astrid. While she navigates her new friendship with Zoey, she also contends with her disintegrating relationship with Nicole. Astrid's experience, and this theme more generally, is common for many young people as they grow up. As they try new things and meet new people, their existing relationships are often tested and continually evolve.
Self-discovery
Astrid discovers a part of herself that she previously didn't know existed in the roller derby. After realizing that she loves roller derby (but that her best friend does not), she learns to embrace her individuality. She begins to understand who she is as a person and starts to truly love herself. Also, because she participates in roller derby, Astrid learns not to conform to what others expect of her and learns to embrace her passions. She realizes that it's okay to be different from her best friend and that it's okay to have interests different from other people. Ultimately, despite the initial challenges she faces, Astrid's participation in roller derby emboldens her to stand up for what she loves and believes in, even when it's against the expectations people have for her and what she had previously done herself.
