Alexander, K. (2014). The Crossover. MA: HMH Books for Young Readers.
The Crossover is an award winning book by Kwame Alexander about brothers whose passion for basketball takes different paths, as they enter junior high school. Josh (Filthy) and Jordan (JB) are twins who both share a love of basketball and have a father who at one time was a European League and Olympic Basketball player. Now a stay-at-home dad, he missed his opportunity due to needing a surgery and a fear of doctors. Their mother is an assistant principal at their school. Josh loves the game of basketball and hopes to follow in his father’s footsteps, while his brother is not as dedicated to as Josh.
The first sign of change in Josh’s life is when JB finds a girlfriend and begins spending more of his time with her than with his family. Josh’s feelings of isolation from his brother, mixed with jealousy, eventually turn to anger. While the distance grows between the brothers, an incident on the court causes Josh to be suspended from playing basketball, which causes great animosity between the two of them. Their father also begins to develop health problems, leading to two heart attacks and finally a third that kills him. This sends Josh into a depression and takes the joy from his life.
In time, the two brothers learn to lean on each other to cope with their problems. They are brought back together, and the divide between them begins to heal. They realize the importance of having family and each other.
Written in verse, this story is a personal account of Josh’s experiences in his life. The theme of family, jealously, and loss are recognizable to most readers. During this age, readers are considering their future careers and seeking emotional independence. The changing relationship between the brothers also fits in with contemporary issues readers face. The Crossover is appropriate for all YA readers. I can relate to the struggling relationship between Josh and JB because my older sister and I had similar issues through middle school and high school. I think everyone can get something out of it. Even if you are not a basketball fan, this book is about more than that. It’s about the unconditional love of family.
**2015 Quick Pick Top 10
If you liked The Crossover, try:
The Red Pencil ISBN 978-0316247825
Almost Alive, Volume 1 ISBN 978-0615792965
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