About This Book
Reach for this book when your teen feels like their interests don't fit the mold, or when they are struggling to bridge the gap between academic life and physical competition. Gene Luen Yang offers a vulnerable, autobiographical look at his own journey from a sports-averse comic book fan to a teacher chronicling a high school basketball team's road to the state championships. The story explores how storytelling and sports are both about high stakes and human drama. It is a sophisticated, deeply empathetic look at teamwork, racial identity, and the pressure of expectations. While it deals with complex historical injustices and high-pressure sports environments, it remains grounded in a hopeful, realistic portrayal of mentorship and growth, making it an excellent choice for 12 to 18-year-olds who value authenticity.
