Summary
The Crossover, a 2014 novel by Kwame Alexander, is a powerful middle-grade story told entirely in verse. This critically acclaimed book won the 2015 Newbery Medal and Coretta Scott King Award Honor, cementing its place in contemporary children's literature. Alexander's unique blend of basketball, family dynamics, and coming-of-age themes resonates strongly with young readers and adults alike.
The novel's innovative format and compelling narrative have made it a staple in school curriculums across the United States. Its popularity has extended beyond the page, with a recent adaptation into a streaming series on Disney+. Executive produced by NBA superstar LeBron James, the show brings Alexander's poetic storytelling to life for a new generation of viewers.
The Crossover has been praised for its ability to engage reluctant readers, particularly young athletes. Critics have lauded Alexander's skillful use of verse to convey complex emotions and relationships, making the book accessible and impactful. The story's exploration of brotherhood, family, and personal growth continues to captivate audiences, solidifying its status as a modern classic in young adult literature.
Plot
The Crossover follows the story of 12-year-old Josh Bell and his twin brother Jordan, both talented basketball players. The novel, told entirely in verse, opens with Josh describing their prowess on the court and introducing their family, including their father, a former professional basketball player.
As the narrative progresses, Josh and Jordan's close relationship begins to change. Jordan starts dating a girl named Alexis, which causes tension between the brothers. Josh feels left out and struggles to adapt to this new dynamic. Meanwhile, their father's health becomes a growing concern, though he tries to downplay its seriousness.
The brothers' competitive nature leads to a pivotal moment during a game when Josh, frustrated by Jordan's actions, deliberately injures him. This incident results in Josh being suspended from the team and further strains their relationship. As Josh grapples with the consequences of his actions, he must also confront the reality of his father's deteriorating health.
The story reaches its climax as the family faces a heart-stopping medical emergency involving their father. This crisis serves as a turning point for Josh, Jordan, and their mother, forcing them to come to terms with the fragility of life and the importance of family bonds. The novel concludes with the characters navigating the aftermath of these events and learning valuable lessons about growth, forgiveness, and resilience.
Themes
Coming of age and personal growth
Family relationships and dynamics
Importance of basketball in African American culture
Sibling rivalry and brotherhood
Dealing with loss and grief
Identity and self-expression through poetry
Balancing passion and responsibility
Setting
The Crossover is set in contemporary times, likely the early 2010s when the book was published. While no specific year is mentioned, the characters' use of modern slang and references to current basketball stars ground the story firmly in the 21st century.
Geographically, the novel takes place in a suburban American setting. Though Alexander doesn't specify an exact location, the importance of basketball in the community and the characters' lives suggests it could be set in a basketball-loving state like Indiana or North Carolina. The action primarily unfolds on basketball courts - both at the twins' school and in their driveway at home.
Much of the story's emotional core revolves around the Bell family home. This domestic setting provides an intimate backdrop for exploring the relationships between Josh, his twin brother Jordan, and their parents. The school gymnasium also features prominently as a key location where the brothers showcase their basketball skills and navigate the challenges of growing up.
Characters
Josh Bell: The 12-year-old protagonist and narrator. Josh is a talented basketball player with a passion for words and rhymes. He struggles with jealousy over his twin brother's new girlfriend and his father's declining health. Josh's journey of self-discovery and maturation forms the core of the novel.
Jordan Bell: Josh's twin brother and basketball teammate. Jordan is more outgoing than Josh and starts dating a new girl at school. His relationship causes tension with Josh and disrupts their close bond.
Chuck “Da Man” Bell: Josh and Jordan's father, a former professional basketball player. Chuck is a loving but strict parent who coaches his sons in basketball. His declining health due to hypertension becomes a major source of conflict and concern.
Dr. Crystal Bell: Josh and Jordan's mother, the assistant principal at their school. She is supportive of her sons but worries about Chuck's health and tries to get him to see a doctor.
Alexis: Jordan's new girlfriend. Her presence causes jealousy in Josh and creates a rift between the twin brothers.
Miss Sweet Tea: The school's librarian. She encourages Josh's love of words and poetry.
Quick facts
The entire novel is written in verse, using various poetic forms and styles
It won both the Newbery Medal and Coretta Scott King Award Honor in 2015
The main character, Josh Bell, has the nickname “Filthy McNasty” after a jazz song
Basketball terms are used as metaphors throughout the book
The novel explores themes of family, brotherhood, love, and loss
Kwame Alexander wrote the first draft of the book in just 18 days
The book is part of a series, with a prequel called Rebound published in 2018
The audiobook version is narrated by Jalyn Hall, who also stars in the TV adaptation
Alexander was inspired to write the book after his daughter asked him to write a novel for kids who don't like reading
About the Author
Kwame Alexander is a prolific American writer, renowned for his contributions to children's literature and poetry. Born in 1968 in Manhattan, New York, Alexander grew up in Virginia surrounded by books, thanks to his father's career as a scholar and book publisher. His educational journey led him to Virginia Tech, where a writing class with poet Nikki Giovanni sparked his passion for literature.
Alexander's literary career has been marked by numerous accolades, including the prestigious Newbery Medal for his verse novel The Crossover in 2015. His works often blend poetry and prose, addressing themes relevant to young readers. Some of his other notable books include Booked, Rebound, and The Undefeated, which have garnered critical acclaim and appeared on bestseller lists.
Beyond his writing, Alexander is deeply committed to promoting literacy and education. He founded the Page to Stage Writing Workshop, which aims to inspire and empower young people through writing. Additionally, he co-founded LEAP for Ghana, an international literacy program that has built libraries and provided professional development for teachers in Ghana.
Alexander's impact extends beyond the page, as he regularly contributes to NPR's Morning Edition and travels globally to promote literary love. His dedication to fostering a love of reading and writing in young people has solidified his position as a influential figure in contemporary children's literature. In recognition of his contributions, Alexander received an honorary doctorate from American University in 2024, further cementing his status as a leading voice in the literary world.
