The Crossover (Graphic Novel)

Written by Kwame Alexander · Illustrated by Dawud Anyabwile

Part of the The Crossover: Graphic Novel series

Twin brothers face life-changing challenges on and off the basketball court.

6.5/7 Bookroo expert·4.4/5 Goodreads · 3,445 ratings

224 pages· 16,647 words· Est. 2.5 hour read· GN670L

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Bookroo's summary

Twelve-year-old Josh Bell and his twin brother Jordan are basketball stars, thanks to their dad. But Josh's talent extends beyond the court—his rhythmic beats tell their family's story. As they navigate a winning season, the brothers confront growing up and the consequences of breaking rules. Will their bond withstand the pressures of change, or will their world unravel? Experience their journey through dynamic illustrations that bring their story to life.

From the publisher

New York Times bestseller ∙ Newbery Medal Winner ∙ Coretta Scott King Honor Award ∙ 2015 YALSA 2015 Top Ten Best Fiction for Young Adults ∙ 2015 YALSA Quick Picks for Reluctant Young Adult Readers ∙ Publishers Weekly Best Book ∙ School Library Journal Best Book ∙ Kirkus Best Book

“A beautifully measured novel of life and line.”—The New York Times Book Review

“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,” announces dread-locked, 12-year old Josh Bell. He and his twin brother Jordan are awesome on the court. But Josh has more than basketball in his blood, he’s got mad beats, too, that tell his family’s story in verse, in this fast and furious middle grade novel of family and brotherhood from Kwame Alexander.

Josh and Jordan must come to grips with growing up on and off the court to realize breaking the rules comes at a terrible price, as their story’s heart-stopping climax proves a game-changer for the entire family.

At a glance

Format
Pages: 224
Words: 16,647
Reading age: 10–12
Audience: Middle Grade
Lexile: GN670L

Themes & topics

Books about Coretta Scott King Award Winners Books about family Books about parents Books about sports and recreation Books about basketball

For the grown-ups

The parent guide

What families may want to know

Every family reads differently. These are the concepts our editors noticed in this book — worth seeking out for some readers, worth knowing about for others. The list isn't exhaustive, but it's a spoiler-light head start.

Sex

One of the main characters has a girlfriend. They kiss in the library and while talking on the phone the character says he wants to peel her like an apple and get under her skin.

Presence of Death

**Spoiler** At the climax of the book, the main character's father dies from a heart attack.

What readers & critics say

Reviews

6.5

out of 7

6.5

“I really enjoyed this graphic novel adaptation. The poetry is remarkable and brimming with energy. The storyline about sports, family, and relationships is moving, relatable, and meaningful.”

The Goodfather

Trusted reviewer

The author