Review: Alexander, K. (2014). The crossover.

LSSL 5385: Required Authors

Alexander, K. (2014). The crossover. New York, NY: Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Co.

Before the prequel Rebound was published telling the childhood story of Chuck “Da Man” Bell, Kwame Alexander wrote The Crossover, the story of Bell's twin sons, Josh and Jordan “JB” Bell. Also in format-shifting free verse, this novel is narrated from the perspective of Josh, a.k.a. “Filthy” as he is dubbed, as he navigates turbulent teenage waters: his relationship with his brother is strained to breaking following JB’s newfound romantic relationship, his father’s health is clearly endangered, and he is prevented from playing basketball due to some poor choices--possibly even through the upcoming county championship game. Josh and Jordan have been well-known for their crossovers on the court, but now they have to learn to cross over from childhood to young adulthood as they face some significant life challenges.

Alexander utilizes a format in which Josh’s phrasing, and even the text sizing and spacing, change with his shifting emotions; he develops the metaphor of life as a game with certain “rules” through Josh’s discussion of official and unofficial rules, as well as breaking the chapters into game “quarters” and dubbing the epilogue “overtime.” At times, Josh wishes the ref could stop the clock of his life. The novel underscores the importance of family in helping to guide and shape us--even though families are imperfect--and the need to mend relationships and work through difficult times. 

The author uses slang and banter in a way that is appropriate as well as captivating to teens, and even younger middle grades can enjoy this story, which contains no objectionable language. He also writes in elements of cultural relevance, noting for example that JB is a sneakerhead, and Josh has dreadlocks or “locks” because they make him “feel like a king.” This story is not a light one and yet as a coming-of-age narrative told with humor, sports references, and interest-grabbing free verse, it will appeal to various audiences and ages, including more reluctant readers.

The other installment in The Crossover Series is Booked, focusing on the sport of soccer, and also written in verse.