The Crossover Series - Ages 11-17

The Crossover series invites readers into the dynamic world of basketball through the eyes of 12-year-old twins, Josh and Jordan Bell. This compelling narrative captures the essence of brotherhood, the thrill of competition, and the trials of growing up.

The Plot

In The Crossover, Josh and Jordan are awesome on the court, but Josh has more than basketball in his blood: his beats tell his family's story in verse, as the brothers must come to grips with growing up on and off the court. Rebound, the prequel, goes back in time to one pivotal summer when their father, Chuck Bell, is sent to stay with his grandparents, discovers basketball and learns more about his family's past. Booked, told in graphic novel form, follows twelve-year-old Nick, a football-mad boy who hates books, as he navigates his parents' break-up, stands up to bullies and tries to impress the girl of his dreams.

Themes

• Family Dynamics: The series delves into the relationship between brothers, highlighting both camaraderie and conflict.
• Growth and Identity: Each book follows a young person growing up, with family at the heart of the story.
• Passion for Sport: Basketball serves as a metaphor for life’s challenges, teaching resilience and teamwork.

Writing Style

Told largely in verse, the narrative flows with rhythm and energy, mirroring the game of basketball itself. The author employs vivid imagery and relatable dialogue, making the story accessible and engaging for young readers.

Fans of middle-grade fiction will find much to enjoy in this series, as it tackles universal themes through a captivating and heartfelt lens.