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Kwame Alexander

The Crossover

"The Crossover" by Kwame Alexander is a novel written in verse that tells the story of fourteen-year-old twin brothers, Josh and Jordan Bell, who share a love for basketball. The novel explores themes of family, identity, and loss, as the brothers navigate the challenges of growing up and finding their own paths. Josh, also known as Filthy McNasty, is the protagonist and narrator of the story. He is a talented basketball player who looks up to his older twin brother, Jordan, who is considered the better player. However, as the story progresses, Josh begins to find his own voice and develops his own unique style of play. The novel is written in a unique style of poetry that captures the rhythm and flow of a basketball game. The use of verse adds a musical quality to the story, making it an engaging and accessible read for both young and old audiences. One of the strengths of "The Crossover" is its exploration of the complexities of family dynamics. The relationship between Josh and Jordan is at the heart of the story, and Alexander does an excellent job of portraying the ups and downs of their bond. The novel also delves into the relationship between the twins and their father, a former basketball star who struggles to connect with his sons. Another notable aspect of the novel is its exploration of identity. Josh and Jordan are both African American boys growing up in a world that often stereotypes and marginalizes them. Through their love of basketball, they are able to find a sense of self and purpose. In conclusion, "The Crossover" is a powerful and moving novel that explores themes of family, identity, and loss through the lens of basketball. Its unique style of verse writing makes it an engaging and accessible read for all audiences. Highly recommended for anyone looking for a fresh and innovative approach to storytelling.