About This Book
Reach for this book when your child is facing social exclusion, unfair treatment from peers, or is navigating the complexities of being the new kid in a group. It is particularly helpful for children who are beginning to recognize that not everyone plays fair and that prejudice can manifest as subtle exclusion rather than just open conflict. Mel Jensen is a talented basketball player who joined the Titans, but two of his teammates refuse to pass him the ball because of the color of his skin. This classic sports story by Matt Christopher uses the high energy of basketball to explore heavy themes of racial prejudice, integrity, and team dynamics. It models how to maintain self-worth and perform at your best even when others are trying to hold you back. While written for the 8 to 12 age range, its focus on sports makes the difficult conversation about systemic exclusion accessible and grounded. It is an excellent choice for parents looking to discuss how to handle injustice without losing one's love for the game.
