LSSL 5361 Multicultural Lit Module 1 Book Reviews

 

A. Citation
Mian, Zanib. 2022. PLANET OMAR: ACCIDENTAL TROUBLE MAGNET. Ill. by Nasaya Mafaridik. G.P. Putnam’s Sons Books for Young Readers. ISBN 9780593109236.

B. Plot Summary
Omar is a smart, imaginative middle child who’s just moved to a new neighborhood in London with his scientist parents and siblings. Starting at a new school is hard enough, but it gets worse when he meets a class bully, Daniel, who makes mean-spirited comments, especially about Omar being Muslim. A difficult neighbor also makes unfair assumptions about Omar’s family, but through humor, creativity, and support from his loving family and new friends, Omar finds his footing. As the story unfolds, Daniel’s behavior is shown to be connected to struggles at home, and by the end, there's an unexpected turn toward friendship and empathy.

C. Critical Analysis
This book does a fantastic job of introducing readers to Muslim culture in a natural, relatable way. Omar’s voice is funny, full of personality, and very authentic. His thoughts and worries feel real, like being nervous about a new school or annoyed by an unfair neighbor. Zanib Mian weaves in important cultural elements such as prayer, Ramadan, food traditions, family roles, and even misunderstandings around hijab-wearing with nuance and warmth. One of the most powerful aspects is how the book gently addresses prejudice, like the neighbor assuming Muslim families are "loud" or "troublemakers” and pushes back against those stereotypes by simply showing a joyful, thoughtful family living their daily life.

The characters are well-rounded and balanced. Omar is imaginative and thoughtful, his mom is strong and smart, and even the bully, Daniel, turns out to be more complex than he first appears. Rather than painting characters as good or bad, the book emphasizes understanding and empathy. Set in London, the story reflects the diversity of the city and the challenges immigrant families may face while remaining light-hearted and hopeful.

Nasaya Mafaridik’s illustrations are full of energy and help young readers engage with the story. The playful drawings, bold fonts, and expressive design make the book accessible and appealing, especially for reluctant readers.

D. Awards & Review Excerpts

·       USBBY Outstanding International Book

·       NPR Best Book of the Year

·       Kirkus Best Book of the Year

·       Middle East Book Award Nominee

★ “Exploding with personality and imagination, Omar is an easy character to love.” -Booklist
“A very kid-friendly and appealingly honest story about being different.” -The New York Times
“Seamlessly weaves Islamic values and teachings through Omar’s narration.” -Kirkus Reviews

E. Connections

·       Related Books:

o   The Night Diary by Veera Hiranandani (identity, family, and cultural heritage)

o   Other Words for Home by Jasmine Warga (Muslim identity and immigration)

·       Activities:

o   Invite students to write or draw a story about a time they felt like "the new kid".

o   Explore vocabulary and traditions from Ramadan or Muslim culture.

o   Host a “Windows & Mirrors” classroom discussion about books that reflect students’ own lives or introduce them to someone else’s.

 

A. Citation
Flett, Julie. 2021. WE ALL PLAY / KIMÊTAWÂNAW. Ill. by Julie Flett. Greystone Kids. ISBN 9781771646079.

 

B. Plot Summary

The picture book We All Play demonstrates playful connections between children and animals through rhythmic storytelling. The book shows animals doing different actions which children then copy until the book states “We play too! / kimetawanaw mina.” The story moves from active play to restful sleep which makes it suitable for bedtime reading. The book establishes a peaceful atmosphere by combining soft inviting elements with beautiful components.

 

C. Critical Analysis

The book delivers maximum meaning through its minimal word count which I find most appealing. The book presents a straightforward design which contains deliberate elements in every aspect. The Cree words embedded throughout the book create a feeling of exclusivity while the glossary and pronunciation guide at the end enhance the meaning of the experience. Julie Flett uses illustrations that combine softness with earthy tones to create a perfect balance of energetic and peaceful elements. The animals in the illustrations are large and powerful yet the children display boundless happiness and energetic movements. Flett dedicated careful attention to depict diverse children in the illustrations because she includes kids from various backgrounds and shows a character with a noticeable limb difference which caught my attention. The story includes a small yet significant moment of inclusion. Through her Cree Metis heritage, Flett integrates her cultural background into the book. The story presents more than play activities because it celebrates our bond with nature and our connections with each other. The Indigenous perspective Flett brings to the book creates a sense of authenticity and deep emotional connection.

D. Awards & Review Excerpts

·       USBBY Outstanding International Book (2022)

·       Named a Best Children’s Book of the Year by The New York Times, Kirkus, School Library Journal, and more

·       Starred reviews from major publications including Horn Book and Publishers Weekly

E. Connections

·       Try with:

o   Birdsong by Julie Flett

o   We Are Water Protectors by Carole Lindstrom

·       Classroom ideas:

o   Learn some of the Cree animal words and practice saying them together.

o   Take a walk outside and observe how animals move, then let kids show how they “play too”.

o   Draw or paint pictures of your favorite animal from the book and how it plays.

 

 

 

LSSL 5385 YA Lit Book Reviews Module 1

a. Citation
Iloh, C. (2020). Every body looking (Kindle ed.). Dutton Books for Young Readers. ISBN 9780525556213

b. Plot Summary

The story of Every Body Looking starts with Ada’s graduation from high school as she departs home to attend a Historically Black College for her first year of college. The strict rules of her Nigerian father and the emotionally unpredictable nature of her mother drive Ada to create her own path in life. She spends her college days remembering important events from her past including her hidden scars and first love of dance and the mixed relationship she had with her family. The memories from her past interweave with her college experiences as she handles college friendships and religious obligations and searches for her true identity. Through dance along with friendship and personal discovery Ada develops self-awareness which enables her to take control of her body and her future.

c. Critical Analysis

From the beginning the story emerges through Ada's first person verse which creates an authentic connection between the reader and her narrative. The beginning of college life triggers Ada to remember childhood moments which alternate between past and present times. Through this structured format the readers gain insight into both her past experiences and her current journey toward progress. The reader finds it simple to connect with her because she presents her perspective directly without pretenses. The verse style adds a lot to the storytelling. The lines maintain their short yet forceful nature and the text arrangement through body like arches or block divisions enhances Ada’s emotional state. Certain pages use black backgrounds with white text to indicate when she experiences past memories. Through these deliberate choices readers can experience the natural flow of her mental processes and emotional states. Through her words Ada creates a voice that rings authentic for her young character. She defines words in the middle of poems for the reader to understand them better. The emotional tone of her experiences evolves from vulnerable to angry before reaching hopeful before ending in growth. Iloh uses her style to present Ada's journey in a natural manner which combines raw emotions with creative expression and deep personal connections. The honest and vulnerable nature of Ada in the story touched me deeply because it showed how important it is for young women to tell their own stories.

d. Review Excerpts
★ “This book is a testament to the beauty of Black girls, their circumstances, bodies, and cultures.” - Booklist, starred review
★ “In this stunning debut for young adults, Iloh crafts succinct, beautiful poems to illustrate the difficulties of navigating the tangle of family history and obligation, the power of art to heal and express, and the strength it takes to chart an authentic, independent path.” -Publishers Weekly, starred review
★ “Iloh uses verse beautifully…[A] captivating, sometimes heartbreaking, yet ultimately hopeful story.” - Kirkus Reviews, starred review
“Ada, pronounced Aah-dah!, means ‘first daughter’ in Igbo... Readers will be left wishing they could accompany Ada as she pursues her passion and finds her way to a genuine relationship.” - School Library Journal

e. Connections
·  Ideal for teen writing workshops, especially in verse or memoir formats

·  Use in class to explore:
                        First-generation identity
                        Trauma and healing through art
                        The intersection of race, culture, and body autonomy

 

 

 

a. Citation
Myers, W. D. (2009). Monster (Kindle ed.). HarperCollins. ISBN 9780061975028

b. Plot Summary

The story follows sixteen-year-old Steve Harmon who faces trial for murder after being arrested. The narrative follows Steve's screenplay thoughts alongside his journal entries to express his fear alongside his confusion and his hope. Steve faces the possibility of decades in prison because he is charged with being the robbery lookout who survived the fatal shooting. Steve keeps his identity intact as a future filmmaker through his writing despite the prosecutor's description of him as a monster. His thoughts revolve around his parents as well as his youngest brother and he maintains his belief about being a decent person. The courtroom trial continues to raise questions about the extent of Steve's involvement in the crime.

c. Critical Analysis

The powerful effect of Monster emerges from the authentic way the author presents Steve's narrative voice. The story presents two narrative styles by showing a courtroom drama through screenplay format and Steve's inner thoughts through journal entries. The narrative structure presents dual perspectives between how the world views him and his personal understanding of himself. The quick-moving pace combines intense dialogue with unfiltered emotional thoughts between each section. The overall mood throughout the book remains dark and uncertain. The author displays fear through his written words as he expresses his terror. Through his journal entries he expresses his powerful thoughts about prison life as well as his family and his identity search. Myers refuses to reveal whether Steve is innocent thus making the story more thought-provoking. The story makes us ponder the connection between judgment and bias while demonstrating how a person's life can transform in an instant. The straightforward language works effectively with the distinctive presentation method to create an engaging reading experience. Steve's account presents a truthful and complex narrative which matches the reality of his situation. The emotional uncertainty about Steve's guilt or innocence kept me guessing throughout his story which made his narrative both disturbing and realistic.

 

d. Review Excerpts
★ “A novel that in both form and subject guarantees a wide teen audience.” -Horn Book, starred review
★ “A riveting novel with breathless, edge-of-the-seat courtroom scenes. Taut and moving.” - Kirkus Reviews
★ “The tense drama of the courtroom scenes will enthrall readers, but it is the thorny moral questions raised in Steve’s journal that will endure.” - Booklist
★ “An emotionally charged story that readers will find compelling and disturbing.” - School Library Journal
“Chilling and engrossing.” - The New York Times

e. Connections
This book would pair well with The Hate U Give by Angie Thomas or All American Boys by Jason Reynolds and Brendan Kiely. All three challenge readers to think about race, justice, and how young people are treated in the legal system. Monster would work well in classrooms as part of a unit on criminal justice or media literacy, students could even write their own screenplay scenes based on key moments in the book. It’s also a great pick for reluctant readers because of its unique format and intense storyline.

 

a. Citation
Johnson, A. (2010). The First Part Last. Simon & Schuster Books for Young Readers. ISBN 9781442403437

b. Plot Summary

Bobby from The First Part Last narrates his life story as a 16-year-old father who must single-handedly care for his newborn daughter Feather. The story reveals two time frames through alternating “now” and “then” chapters which demonstrate Bobby's current experiences as a young father and his life before Feather's birth. The authentic tone of Bobby's voice communicates his complete experiences about lack of sleep and the heavy responsibility of making good decisions. Bobby and Nia decided on adoption at first but the reason Bobby raises the baby alone becomes known only at the end of the story in a touching yet powerful manner. The quiet reflective times Bobby spends with his daughter alongside his deep parental love demonstrate an unusual perspective on teenage parenthood which rarely appears in literature especially when viewed through a young man's eyes.

c. Critical Analysis

The First Part Last stands out because of its intensely personal tone. The book presents a first-person narrative from Bobby's perspective through Johnson's basic yet poetic and emotional writing style. Each brief chapter maintains a concentrated focus that drives the narrative forward with minimal interruptions. Through the "now" and "then" alternating structure readers experience both the pre-pregnancy phase of Bobby's life and the present reality of his daily fatherhood. The language is natural and realistic, nothing feels forced. Readers find themselves in Bobby's shoes because of his genuine thoughts about his mother and his friends and the drastic changes in his life. The initial concept which suggests life would improve if we experienced the first part before the last section creates an enduring impression that stays with readers throughout the book. Johnson presents Bobby's genuine experience without providing educational content or final resolutions; she simply shares his truth. The genuine emotions and challenges alongside his deep love for Feather create a powerful impact in this story. Bobby's silent strength and his love for his daughter left a lasting impression on me because it made me see teen parenthood in a different light.

d. Review Excerpts
★ “Brief, poetic, and absolutely riveting.” - School Library Journal
★ “Readers will only clamor for more.” - Publishers Weekly, starred review
★ “Poetry.” - Booklist, starred review
“Johnson has carved a niche writing realistically about young people's issues.” - U.S. News and World Report

e. Connections
·  Great for personal narrative or journaling prompts

·  Use in class to explore:
            Teen parenting and emotional growth

The role of fathers in literature         

Nonlinear storytelling techniques

·  Students could create a “Then vs. Now” timeline of Bobby’s life or a baby-care survival guide from Bobby’s point of view

 

Final Reflection on LSSL 5391

 

Final Reflection on LSSL 5391

When I began this course, I considered myself relatively tech-comfortable, as a user. But being asked to create with digital tools was a different story. I didn’t realize how vulnerable I would feel putting my voice, ideas, and personality into formats I’d never used before. Looking back now, I’m proud not just of what I made, but of how far I’ve come.

The most exciting part? Podcasting was a clear favorite. It pushed me creatively, but it also connected to real library applications. Recording with Podbean alongside my partner showed me how accessible podcasting could be for schools. We were able to work remotely, add music and sound effects, and craft something fun yet informative. I could easily see this being used for student book talks, author studies, or even parent resources.

I also loved using Canva to design newsletters, infographics, and visual messages. It helped me see how essential branding and clear communication are for library visibility. These tools sparked ideas I’ll carry into my future library, monthly reading challenges, digital signage, and even themed social media posts.

The hardest part? One assignment that challenged me was the “Teach Someone” technique. I originally misunderstood the directions and created a video using TumbleBooks, which, while a vetted educational resource, didn’t align with the assignment’s goal of demonstrating how to teach someone to find information on a real-world topic. After receiving feedback, I corrected the assignment by guiding students, parents, and teachers through the process of finding a safe and accurate slime recipe online. This required me to evaluate sources carefully and demonstrate how to identify trustworthy information, a skill that’s crucial for digital literacy. In the end, redoing the assignment taught me more than just how to follow directions; it reminded me that school librarians are responsible for teaching others how to navigate the internet with care and confidence.

Most beneficial for students? Digital storytelling tools in general, whether through podcasting, comic creation, or short videos, stand out the most. They allow students to process and present information in powerful, multimodal ways. These tools don't just support curriculum, they support expression, agency, and engagement.

As I reflect, I keep returning to the “Food for Thought” passage we were given. Jen Hatmaker’s words remind me that introducing tech in a library shouldn’t be about showing off what I know. It should be about meeting my students and teachers where they are. Listening first. Adapting. Supporting. Walking beside, not in front. That’s what makes this work meaningful.

This course didn’t just teach me how to use new tools, it taught me to be a more empathetic, intentional, and creative educator. I’m grateful for the encouragement, the challenges, and the opportunity to grow not just as a tech user, but as a digital leader.

 

 

 

To wrap up my reflection, I used one last tool: Pic-Lit, a platform that combines images with words to tell a visual story. I chose an image that symbolized growth and created a short poem that captured my personal journey from consumer to creator. It was a simple tool, but a powerful one, it reminded me that even a few well-chosen words can carry deep meaning when paired with the right visual. Creating the Pic-Lit helped me distill everything I’ve learned this semester into something emotional, creative, and shareable. I can see how this tool would be highly beneficial for students as well. It supports visual literacy, builds vocabulary, encourages poetic thinking, and allows even reluctant writers to express themselves creatively. Pic-Lit is the kind of low-barrier, high-engagement tool that fits perfectly in a school library program focused on voice, choice, and connection.

Module 6, Fiction , Fantasy and Graphic Novels

 

1. BIBLIOGRAPHY
Telgemeier, R. (2020). Smile. New York: Graphix. ISBN 978-1338740264.

2. PLOT SUMMARY

Raina dreams about living an ordinary sixth-grade life. During Girl Scouts Raina experiences a severe accident which damages her two front teeth when she trips and falls.  Raina endures a prolonged dental process which includes multiple surgeries and braces and headgear and a retainer with artificial teeth. Raina faces a difficult time because she must handle both her changing appearance and a major earthquake and boy-related confusion and fake friendships. Readers experience the pain of tooth loss and social rejection and the happiness of self-discovery because of Raina's struggles. Raina learns to accept her genuine smile in all ways while discovering genuine confidence and true friendship and personal development.

3. CRITICAL ANALYSIS

Smile tells the story of adolescence through humorous and truthful illustrations of growing up. Readers immediately feel connected to Raina because she presents as a character who is deeply  relatable. The dental problems Raina faces function as both actual barriers and metaphors for her need to be herself while remaining part of her social group. Through her clear perspective and strong narrative voice Telgemeier creates an authentic and welcoming environment for readers to experience Raina's world. The story’s basic locations of school and home and orthodontist offices become alive through illustrations which both depict physical spaces and emotional states. The story explores perseverance and self-acceptance and friendship as core themes which lead to Raina's rewarding emotional development. Her journey is believable and engaging, with each setback pushing her closer to discovering who she truly is. The author's playful style, paired with impactful visual storytelling, makes this graphic memoir a powerful and accessible choice for middle-grade readers.

4. REVIEW EXCERPTS

• Kirkus Reviews: “Irresistible, funny, and touching.”
• Booklist: “One of the most widely loved kids' graphic novels in recent history.”
• The New York Times: “It hits home partly because there is nothing else out there like it.”
• Awards: Will Eisner Comic Industry Award Winner, Boston Globe-Horn Book Honor Book, Vermont Golden Dome Book Award Winner

5. CONNECTIONS

• Students can create their own short graphic memoir panels about a personal experience that taught them a life lesson.
• Great for classroom discussions on topics like self-esteem, peer relationships, and resilience.
• Pair with Telgemeier’s Sisters and Guts for a thematic unit on growing up and family dynamics.
• Use in SEL lessons to explore how young people process change, anxiety, and personal growth.
• Invite students to compare Raina’s story to Beverly Cleary’s Ramona series or Cece Bell’s El Deafo for additional perspectives on childhood challenges and empowerment.

 

1. BIBLIOGRAPHY
Fajardo, K. (2022). Miss Quinces. New York: Graphix. ISBN 978-1338535594.

2. PLOT SUMMARY

The summer camp experience Sue had envisioned with her friends creating comics becomes impossible because her family embarks on a Honduras vacation. Sue's world takes a turn for the worse when her mother reveals the unwanted news about Sue's upcoming quinceañera. Sue finds it completely unacceptable to wear a frilly outfit while participating in customs which do not align with her cultural background.  Sue starts to understand the importance of her cultural traditions by spending time with her family members, particularly her grandmother whom she loves. After her abuela passes away Sue gains the power to celebrate life in her own manner while understanding that tradition does not force her to lose her individuality.

3. CRITICAL ANALYSIS

The graphic novel Miss Quinces presents an emotional portrayal of cultural identity development through its exploration of family obligations and personal growth. The story maintains a realistic tone that accurately represents the genuine conflicts people experience between personal needs and cultural customs. Sue's resistance to her quinceañera seems genuine and her development throughout the narrative brings emotional strength. Sue's bond with her abuela forms the story's core element as it brings laughter and love before transforming into sadness that leads to personal transformation. The Honduran landscape appears vividly in the illustrations through truck rides along bumpy roads and lively family events in rural areas. Through his vivid coloring and dynamic drawing Sue's emotional state matches the scenery which becomes alive in each panel. The graphic storytelling approach maintains audience engagement through a mix of humor and heartfelt expression. The book uses blue font for Spanish text and black font for English to demonstrate bilingual identity fluidity while Sue gains confidence in both languages. The story teaches readers to maintain their authenticity by exploring their cultural identity. Sue evolves into her authentic self instead of transforming into a different person.

 

4. REVIEW EXCERPTS

• ★ School Library Journal: “With all of the charm of Raina Telgemeier and Lucy Knisley’s works... will especially resonate with readers from bicultural communities.”
• ★ The Horn Book: “Fajardo’s expressive use of line, and color palette of cool blues and pinks convey the complexity... of Sue’s feelings.”
• Booklist: “Fajardo’s colorful artwork is lively, full of emotion... will appeal to fans of Raina Telgemeier and Jen Wang.”
• Publishers Weekly: “A sympathetic look at a girl learning that she can be herself and still cherish family tradition.”
• Awards: National Indie Bestseller, ALA Best Graphic Novel for Children, NPR Books We Love, Horn Book Best Book of the Year

5. CONNECTIONS

• Pair with Raina Telgemeier’s Drama or Sisters to explore themes of cultural identity and growing up.
• Students can research and present different cultural coming-of-age ceremonies, comparing similarities and differences.
• A classroom activity could include students writing and illustrating their own “mini graphic memoirs” centered around a family tradition or moment of self-discovery.
• Readers could also reflect on the use of bilingual dialogue and discuss how it shapes character identity and voice.
• Follow up with discussions on intergenerational relationships and the importance of listening to elder voices.

 

1. BIBLIOGRAPHY
Soontornvat, C. (2022). The Tryout. Ill. by Joanna Cacao. New York: Graphix. ISBN 978-1338741261.

2. PLOT SUMMARY

Christina has always been different from the rest of the students at school because Christina is Thai American. Her best friend,  and Megan is Iranian American but they both want to belong. The cheerleading squad becomes the ideal opportunity for the girls to gain acceptance from their peers. Christina faces two major challenges during tryouts as she needs to overcome both her fear of failing and her changing sense of identity and friendships. The initial pursuit of popularity transforms into a journey that helps Christina discover herself while strengthening her cultural identity and understanding that staying true to oneself is the greatest achievement.

 

3. CRITICAL ANALYSIS

This middle grade graphic memoir stands out through its authentic storytelling and heartfelt content and meaningful lessons. Readers will identify strongly with Christina because they can connect to her fears and hopes along with her inner struggles that match their own middle school emotions, past or present.  The story shows both the exhilaration and tension of important seventh-grade moments including cheerleading tryouts and changing relationships. The audience genuinely supports Christina's journey toward squad membership and her understanding of her intrinsic value. Through her authentic storytelling Soontornvat combines humor with honesty to create a narrative which displays both her weaknesses and her strength. The story organically weaves together themes about belonging and identity alongside internalized pressure as it explores racism in both explicit and subtle ways. The illustrations by Joanna Cacao play an essential role in establishing tone by employing vibrant colors and expressive facial expressions and symbolic visual elements (sparkly cheerleader backgrounds and shadowy self-doubt scenes) which reflect Christina's emotional state. The authentic feel of the story results from its consistent point of view alongside distinctive language and cultural references that include homecoming mums and Thai traditions as well as family dynamics. Through this memoir readers learn that being genuine represents the greatest achievement of all.

4. REVIEW EXCERPTS

• ★ Kirkus Reviews: “A funny, painfully honest look at a middle schooler finding her way.”
• ★ School Library Journal: “Readers… will want to invite Christina to sit at their table to share food, stories, and the secrets to self-confidence.”
• ★ Publishers Weekly: “Nail-biting… fluidly injecting their athletic pursuits with lively energy using bright color palettes.”
• ★ Shelf Awareness: “Cringe-worthy in the best way… an inspiring and insightful graphic memoir.”
• Awards & Recognition: Instant #1 Bestseller, multiple starred reviews, praised by The New York Times as “a captivating middle-grade gem”

5. CONNECTIONS

• This book pairs well with Invisible by Christina Diaz Gonzalez and Allergic by Megan Wagner Lloyd for units on identity, friendship, and middle school transitions.
• Students could write a journal entry or comic strip about a time they tried something new or took a risk socially or emotionally.
• Teachers can use this book in SEL or diversity lessons to open conversations about cultural pride, microaggressions, and building confidence.
• A group activity could involve students designing a personal “badge” that represents their identity, strengths, and values, just as Christina finds strength in her roots.
• The author's note and real photos at the end make this a great text for autobiographical storytelling discussions.

 

1. BIBLIOGRAPHY
Alexander, K. (2014). The Crossover. Ill. by Dawud Anyabwile. New York: Clarion Books. ISBN 978-0544107717.

2. PLOT SUMMARY

Josh “Filthy McNasty” Bell demonstrates his basketball abilities as a 12-year-old through his impressive crossover and intense dedication to the sport. Josh and JB share all aspects of their lives including basketball and school as well as everything else but JB's new interest in a girl creates distance between them. Josh develops feelings of jealousy and insecurity because he has trouble adapting to the changing connection between him and his brother. The family struggles with serious health problems affecting their father who played professional basketball before his illness. Josh’s tale about rivalry, regret and reconciliation plays out through rhythmic and emotional verse.

3. CRITICAL ANALYSIS

The Crossover stands is a  novel written in verse that has both emotional depth and energetic force. Josh is an authentic protagonist whose voice unites athletic confidence with poetic sophistication. The combination of free verse with concrete poetry and basketball terminology creates a rhythm which corresponds to the speed of basketball and teenage life. The family atmosphere stands authentic because it depicts their mother who focuses on academics versus their father who supports their musical talents with his love of jazz. The story takes readers through Josh's experience with sibling conflict and teenage life changes while his father faces a serious health emergency. The story integrates themes about personal identity alongside brotherhood and growing up and coping with loss. The verse structure enables readers to experience Josh's emotional vulnerability through his internal thoughts and visual effects are used to enhance emotional moments or dramatic actions. Basketball definitions and rules that appear throughout the text provide both humorous and meaningful insights to the story. When the brothers finally make peace with each other following their father's death the emotional moment creates a powerful yet uplifting conclusion. Through his voice Alexander delivers a profound message about how life operates without a set plan while demonstrating that success means more than winning.

4. REVIEW EXCERPTS

• School Library Journal: “Alexander has crafted a story that vibrates with energy and heart and begs to be read aloud.”
• Booklist: “An accomplished author and poet, Alexander eloquently mashes up concrete poetry, hip-hop, a love of jazz, and a thriving family bond.”
• Bulletin of the Center for Children’s Books: “Will inspire budding players and poets alike.”
• Awards: Newbery Medal Winner, Coretta Scott King Award,  #1 Best Seller in Children’s Basketball Books

 

5. CONNECTIONS

• Pair with Rebound, Alexander’s prequel, for a fuller understanding of the Bell family.
• Use as a mentor text for writing poetry with voice, students can create “sports poems” or free verse narratives about their passions.
• Compare with Ghost by Jason Reynolds for themes of identity and overcoming personal challenges.
• Perfect for reluctant readers, especially those interested in sports or music.
• Students can create a character trait chart tracing Josh’s emotional growth across the book, supported by evidence from the verse.