Alexander, Kwame. Booked. Dawud, Anyabwile, Illus. The Crossover (Graphic Novel) Series; bk. 2. Clarion, 08/2022. 315pp. Graphic. GRADES 6 – 9. $24.99. 978-0-35-816181-3 PB. $12.99. 978-0-35-816182-0. HIGH ADDITIONAL.
Enjoy a glimpse of Nick Hall’s life as readers experience his obsession with soccer, difficulties with parental separation and home life, neutral outlook on school work and reading, and a possible romantic interest, in this graphic novel adaptation of Kwame Alexander’s 2016 novel of the same title. Anyabwile’s use of two-color illustrations (black and spearmint green) showcases the action—on the field, in school, and anywhere else. Mixing up the font sizes and styles helps the free verse text to weave around illustrations, providing a boost to the already interesting story, which races along. This illustrated, action-filled format increases accessibility for struggling readers, and provides a different look at the characters and story. Nick and family appear to be Black, his best friend is mixed Chinese and African, and many of the other kids appear to be non-white. Although Nick is finishing up eighth grade and looking forward to high school, this title should work well in any middle grade collection.
Joshua Rees—Daly City Public Library