STRONG TO THE HOOP

Author (last name first): Coy, John

Publisher, Date of Publication: Lee & Low/1999

Pages: Unpaged

Grade Level/ or Age Level: 2-5

Classification: Fiction

James is eager to prove his skills on the basketball court, but at ten is still too small to play with Nate, his brother, and Nate's friends. James goes to the court to practice anyway and hopes to pick up a game with the kids his own age. No one else is there, so James practices by himself on another court. A few minutes into their game, one of Nate's friends twists his ankle. Since James is the only extra person around, they ask him to join their game.
James has to guard Marcus who is a head taller and much heavier then he is . Nate gives James pointers to improve his game. Marcus doesn't take James seriously and trash talks, but James manages to keep up with Marcus through the game . A crowd gathers to watch, and James overhears a man say that he plays well. Another team is waiting to play the winner, and the game is tied 14 to 14 (15 points wins). When Marcus leaves James to double team another player, James makes the game-winning shot. Everyone congratulates him including Marcus. James says that he is as "happy as the last day of school."
Coy has constructed a fun story that many kids can relate to- being the youngest and having to prove yourself. Jean-Bart's collage illustrations of photographs and scratch board are unique and add an element of excitement to the story. Although the book will definitely appeal to boys, girls, too, will enjoy the idea that size isn't a barrier to doing well. If you practice hard and learn your moves, you can compete against a bigger opponent.

Reviewer: Dana Wood