The Basketball Court vs. The Page

Getting your young sports' minded 9 to 12 year old to read a book rather than play basketball all the time can be difficult. So we are recommending this fantastic book to get him/her off the court for a little bit and on the page.

The Crossover: A Basketball Novel by Kwame Alexander may be just the ticket to hook you court hound. Alexander is an accomplished writer who uses poetic prose and a mix of jazzy hip hop to get this compelling story of twin brothers who experience a challenge in their beliefs of court and family loyalty and somehow make it through to the other side.
The story has very strong themes of education and family. The boys and their family are African American but the characters in this book are diverse and I think it will be a great book for sports minded young boys and girls but especially for those who love basketball.

This outstanding book is like a full court press for your young reluctant reader. It is also the winner of the 2015 Newbery Medal and the 2015 Coretta Scott King Honor Award.

Looking for it at Multnomah County Library?