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The Crossover Graphic Novel Reader Reviews

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The Crossover Graphic Novel

Josh and Jordan have spent their life together and basketball is their thing. When Jordan gets a girlfriend, Josh must learn how to deal with a change to his life.

Josh and Jordan are twins, they do everything together including play basketball. When Jordan gets a girlfriend, Josh struggles with his feelings and the fact his twin is now distracted and no longer spending as much time with him, he has to learn a new period in his life. This phase does not always go well for Josh and the story addresses his feelings in a mature way.


Family is important in the story and this is not a book that shies away from the difficulties of life and delivers a story-line you may not predict.


I had already read the original version of this book and loved it, but this graphic novel took it to another level. The visual aspect of the book may help younger readers to pick up on some of the subtleties of the text. The pictures suit the story perfectly and do not detract from the words that Kwame Alexander uses.


The book is a stark reminder to take the time you have with family and friends and cherish it. An amazing read and one that will appeal to all.

Sara Bloomfield

This is a powerful and emotional novel and one that will engage with readers of all ages and all abilities. It will appeal to a variety of readers, not only fans of Kwame Alexander but readers who love graphic novels, those who love stories about sport, real-life and those who like a quick read – this book has it all.

Written entirely in verse The Crossover Graphic Novel is like no other. Alexander’s original modern classic verse novel is given a vibrant, energetic feel by Anyabwile’s illustrations. The story centres around twin brothers Josh and Jordan. It focuses on their relationships, their family, their school lives and their passion – basketball. This is a powerful and emotional novel and one that will engage with readers of all ages and all abilities. It will appeal to a variety of readers, not only fans of Kwame Alexander but readers who love graphic novels, those who love stories about sport, real-life and those who like a quick read – this book has it all.

Julie Broadbent

An interesting style of book.

An interesting style of book played out in the form of a poem comic book.

I found the change of style good and it made me pay attention to all the colours that the book displayed. It was an interesting storyline that told the story of a young basketball star who struggles with decisions because his dad suffers from heart disease. Josh Bell faces punishments after getting annoyed with his brother and must face not playing Basketball in an important game.  

josh parcell

A fictional, children's literature, poetic novel with a positive message and educational value.

This is a graphic novel about twin brothers named JB/Jordan Bell and Filthy McNasty/Josh Bell who dream of becoming professional basketball players!
JB is a Michael Jordan stalker and a baffling baller for the vicious Wildcats (his basketball team). Filthy McNasty is an exceptional basketball player who likes to use a dirty crossover now and again.

This is a book of two boys with one dream taking two different paths while a tragedy occurs!

I like how the book uses similes and metaphors for absolutely everything. One of my favourites was, “When I take off from centre court, my hair like wings, each lock lifting me higher and higher like a 747!”

I also like the use of the rhythm in the verses. They even made the book sound like a 218-page rap in my head. Additionally, the pictures described two brothers arguing in the way I and my sibling argue. This shows the pictures portray a realistic image in my head, which I can relate to.

Another effect on the reader was the way they would describe a word and then give a few detailed examples. This really helped me learn new words and new basketball skills and tricks.

All-in-all, this is a fictional, children literature, a poetic novel with a positive message and educational value.

I would rate it 9.7/10. It has also pushed me to play more basketball and I have learnt to love the game.

Rodborough Reader

A powerful exploration of grief and growing up, Alexander spins a masterful tale that shines a light on love, loss and life on the basketball court.

The Crossover is a graphic novel that chronicles the lives and loves of Joshua ‘Filthy McNasty’ Bell and his twin brother, J. B, as they navigate the rocky terrain of Middle School. Sons of a basketball legend, the boys are keen to earn their father’s pride and leave their mark on the sporting world. Their rivalry goes deep but familial love goes deeper and their family is always there for each other, no matter what happens on the court. Told in verse and accompanied by eye-popping two-colour illustrations, the story cuts right to the heart of the game, grief and growing up. Alexander’s love of language shines off the page whilst Anyabwile’s illustrations drive the story forward with energy and grace. From the first page, the story strikes up a rhythm that is both unique and relentless. It’s impossible not to be swept away. This is a powerful, vibrant and engaging book that reminds us to treasure every moment spent with loved ones and to honour those we care about by being the very best version of ourselves.

Alison King

@avk1986

A heartwarming and touching read.

This book is about two brothers who both play basketball they are very competitive but play for the same team. If they weren't brothers they would be enemies. Their dad used to play basketball as well but his career ended early. The brothers are trying to find out why their dad ended his career so soon. This book is a graphic novel and it's the first one I have read I thought it was a very good book it was also filled with emotions and heartwarming pages I would recommend this book for ages 12+ because there are some disturbing bits which little kids won't like. I would definitely read another graphic novel.

Connor Lobban