The Crossover

 

Alexander, K. (2014). The crossover. NY: Houghton Mifflin Harcourt.

This novel-in-verse was a window read for me. The story of a middle school boy, his twin brother, and their mother and father during basketball season. I could imagine many of my students relating to and enjoying this book with its talk of basketball, and how to navigate the inevitable changes that occur as one grows older and those in the inner circle begin to branch out. Josh and his twin brother Jordan were close as most twins are until adolescence causes shifts in their relationship. Jordan gets a girlfriend and Josh feels jealousy that his brother is becoming distant. The boys’ father, a former Euro league basketball player, faces health difficulties and their mother, their school’s principle, tries to get him to take it easy and make healthier choices. After some unexpected events the boys find a way to repair their relationship. Also available in graphic novel format.

More from Kwame Alexander: Prequel – Rebound and Booked

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