Stop whatever you’re doing and RUN to the nearest bookstore and grab a few copies of Kwame Alexander’s The Crossover.
To be sure, often when books are highly rated and win many awards I am skeptical. Sometimes award winners don’t thrill me. Call me a cynic but sometimes award winners are like medicine: you know they are good for you but sometimes they are hard to take. The Crossover is an EXCEPTION.
Not since Jacqueline Woodson’s Brown Girl Dreaming (SWOON) have I been this moved by a book. I loved The Crossover from beginning to end. Every reader for every book right? Well this is the book for every reader. If you’re African American, you’ll love this book. If you love sports you’ll love this book. If you have a sibling, you’ll love this book. If you’re a middle grade tween reader and you’re struggling to find your place in the world, this book is for you. If you just love a gosh dang great story, this book is for you!
“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,”
I cannot express how much I love this book! From the rhyming opening lines of the tale, to the relationship between the twin brothers and their father, I’m not sure exactly when I fell in love. Alexander’s story is equally funny, tender, relevant, and appealing to everyone. I don’t know much about basketball but Alexander makes you feel like you are on the court with these kids dribbling along with them.
The only thing I hated about the book was that it ended. I could have read this book forever. In fact this is a book that you will re-read again and again.
It’s just that good.
The Crossover is  a Diversity Reading Challenge book and would make the perfect holiday gift for anyone. EVERYONE!
Kwame Alexander, please keep writing books! Also? Call me. (fainting)