Kwame Alexander's The Crossover (2014) is not a stereotypical basketball story: It isn't about impoverished black boys from a single parent female-headed household living in a crime-ridden neighborhood who play basketball to escape. Rather, it is a universal story of growing up, of family, and of love told in narrative verse (poetry).
Related from the perspective of Josh "Filthy McNasty" Bell, The Crossover is about the experiences of almost thirteen year-old twins Josh and Jordan (JB) in a year when everything changes: JB's interests and time are no longer exclusive to basketball, which challenges Josh's sense of identity, and their father is facing a health crisis for which he refuses to seek medical help. In the end, after facing some adversity and developing some maturity, the boys move forward, united in their bond and responsibilities.
Other than his vibrant use of language, a strong narrative voice, and his realistic portrayal of the speed, heat, and energy of basketball, Alexander's The Crossover is wonderful because it challenges the "single stories" of black life related in many books. My main appreciation of the book comes from that observation. Here we are presented with black characters, black boys in particular, who came from a united, nurturing, and happy home with educated and professional parents who are deeply in love with each other. While basketball plays a pivotal role in their life, it does not take precedence over their education. How thrilling to read from the perspective of a black athlete who is reads and is studious!
Having said that, Alexander does tackle some contemporary issues of black life: of driving while black, of the consequences for black men who do not regulate their emotions, of poor diet and not seeking medical treatment. However, Alexander highlights these issues in ways that do not overshadow the core of this book: the love between brothers and the role of basketball in healing them through their obstacles.
The Crossover is an engaging, emotional read that is ideal for those who love poetry, basketball, or may be reluctant readers.
This is a crossposted CBR8 review.
Comments
Post a Comment