The Crossover cover
Best Seller Award Winner

The Crossover

Reading List Award Winners Best Sellers Popular Reading Books Turned Into Movies/Series

Overview & Summary

Told entirely in basketball-inflected free verse, this novel follows twin brothers Josh and Jordan Bell, both gifted middle school basketball players, as a girl and growing tensions between the brothers threaten their once-unshakable bond, all while their father's declining health looms over the family. Kwame Alexander's Newbery Medal-winning novel pairs the rhythm of the sport with the rhythm of poetry.

Available Formats

  • 🎧Audiobook
  • 📖Hardcover
  • 📱Kindle
  • 📖Paperback

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Who This Book Is For

Recommended for High school students (Grades 9–12) working on English Literature. Fits students building reading confidence, vocabulary, and strong comprehension.

Grade LevelUpper (9-12)
Lexile ComplexityHigh School & Up (1100L+)

Why CE Recommends This Book

An award-winning book chosen for its strong writing and engaging themes. Helps young readers develop critical thinking, expand their worldview, and express clear opinions.

Academic & Admissions Takeaways
Grade & Readiness: Aligned for Upper (9-12).
Lexile Complexity: Targeted for High School & Up (1100L+).
Subject Alignment: Builds vocabulary, reading stamina, and analytical skills for English Literature.
Reading Goal: Lexile growth, classroom discussion readiness & essay depth.