The Crossover by Kwame Alexander

Published March 18, 2014

“With a bolt of lightning on my kicks . . .The court is SIZZLING. My sweat is DRIZZLING. Stop all that quivering. Cuz tonight I’m delivering,” announces dread-locked, 12-year old Josh Bell. He and his twin brother Jordan are awesome on the court. But Josh has more than basketball in his blood, he’s got mad beats, too, that tell his family’s story in verse, in this fast and furious middle grade novel of family and brotherhood.

Josh and Jordan must come to grips with growing up on and off the court to realize breaking the rules comes at a terrible price, as their story’s heart-stopping climax proves a game-changer for the entire family. –Goodreads

My Review

Wow. What a book! I was blown away by how much I enjoyed reading this book. I give this book FIVE STARS because of the rhythm of the poetry, the figurative language, the imagery, and the ability to put me into the book despite the fact that I know very little about basketball! I laughed. I cried. I recommend to all!

Why I Chose This Book

My instructional coach, Mrs. Stepp, recommended this book. Upon opening the cover and turning to the first page, I was sold. I mean, look at this! Aren’t you intrigued?

Page 1 of Crossover

My Thoughts While Reading

• I love the text features-the ALL CAPS, the italicized words, Bold print. The words jump off the page.
• The rap-I love reading this out loud! (I am a terrible rapper, but I loved it anyway!)
• You have to have some background knowledge. This is a recently published book and includes references to basketball players and video games. There are also some words that have different meanings than I am used to (fresh, sweet) and researching a little for us oldies is necessary.
• The value of nicknames and how you hate the names your parents give you at first, but the
  

  The end. (No spoiler)

  n you grow to love the name and the name molds with you. I HATED my nickname, but I look back now and think of how it fit me and how I should not be embarrassed.

• This book is one of those that when you finish, you don’t know how to function. I didn’t know what to do with myself. What should I do next? Should I read another book? How can I read with so many thoughts and feelings going through my mind?

My Favorite Quotes

• See, when I play ball,/I’m on fire./ When I shoot,/ I inspire./ The hoop’s for sale,/ and I’m the buyer.
• In this game of life/your family is the court/and the ball is your heart./No matter how good you are,/ no matter how down you get,/always leave/your heart/on the court.
• Never let anyone/lower your goals./others’ expectations/of you are determined/ by their limitations/of life.

My Recommendation

Even if you don’t love sports, or basketball, I think everyone should read this book. It is a great book about family, perseverance, being true to yourself, and growing up. You will reflect on your own life-and isn’t that what a good book is supposed to do? Read. This. Book.