The Crossover

By Author / Illustrator

Kwame Alexander

Genre

Adventure

Age range(s)

11+

Publisher

Andersen Press Ltd

ISBN

9781783443673

Format

Paperback / softback

Published

08-10-2015

Synopsis

'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'12-year-old Josh and his twin Jordan have basketball in their blood. They're kings of the court, star players for their school team. Their father used to be a champion player and they each want nothing more than to follow in his footsteps.Both on and off the court, there is conflict and hardship which will test Josh's bond with his brother. In this heartfelt novel in verse, the boys find that life doesn't come with a play-book and it's not all about winning.

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Reviews

Crossover is a breath-taking book, with far reaching appeal. Issues of friendship, growing up, brotherhood, the realisation that parents aren't infallible are meticulously handled, all against a strong basketball backdrop that gives the novel a glorious beat and rhythm. Written in free verse, the style is original and hooks instantly. Reading more like an extended rap song than traditional poetry, this is a book with masses of 'boy appeal'. Even the typography is inventive and impressive! If you're looking to engage reluctant readers, this is the book for you. If you're looking to engage students with poetry, this is the book for you. If you're looking for a damn good read that will rip you apart and make you remember just how powerful books can be, this is most definitely the book for you. 240 pages / Ages 12+ / Reviewed by Amy McKay, school librarian.