The Crossover by Kwame Alexander
Name a topic listed below and explain how it is expressed in the novel. Use these topics to help you determine a theme revealed in the story.
Possible Themes
good vs. evil
fate vs. free will
alienation
humans vs. nature
identity
change vs. tradition
overcoming fear or weakness
quest for discovery
Identity is a prominent theme in The Crossover. The novel follows twins Joshua and Jordan, who are both talented basketball players and struggling to define their own identities separate from each other. As they navigate adolescence and the pressures of their father's high expectations, they must confront who they are as individuals and what they want for themselves.
Joshua, also known as JB, grapples with feeling overshadowed by his more successful twin brother, Jordan. He struggles with his own identity as a basketball player and tries to find his own path in the sport. Jordan, on the other hand, must come to terms with his own strengths and weaknesses as a player and figure out what kind of player he wants to be.
The theme of identity is also reinforced through the boys' relationships with their father, Chuck "Da Man" Bell. As a former basketball star himself, Chuck has a vision for his sons' futures in the sport, but they must determine if they want to follow in his footsteps or forge their own paths.
Overall, The Crossover explores the complexities of identity and the journey of self-discovery that comes with growing up and figuring out who you are. Through the characters of Joshua and Jordan, readers witness the challenges and triumphs that come with defining oneself in a world full of expectations and influences.
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In The Crossover by Kwame Alexander, the theme of identity is prevalent throughout the novel, especially in the character development of twins Joshua and Jordan. As the brothers navigate their relationships with each other, their father, and the sport of basketball, they are forced to confront who they are as individuals and what defines them. Joshua grapples with feeling overshadowed by his brother and struggles to carve out his own identity on and off the court. Jordan, on the other hand, must come to terms with his own strengths and weaknesses as a player and determine what kind of player he wants to be. Through their journeys of self-discovery, the twins ultimately learn the importance of embracing their unique identities and staying true to themselves amidst the pressures of external influences.
Using evidence from the poems “I run into Dad’s room,” “Behind Closed Doors,” “Text Messages from Mom, Part One,” and “At Noon, in the Gym, with Dad,” how does each poem convey important information about the boys’ dad’s health problems?
In the poem "I run into Dad's room," the narrator describes finding their father lying in bed with ice packs on his knees, suggesting that he is experiencing physical pain or injury that affects his ability to move and function normally. This highlights the father's health problems related to his knees, potentially hindering his mobility and well-being.
The poem "Behind Closed Doors" alludes to the father's health issues by mentioning that he hides his pain behind closed doors, indicating that he may be trying to conceal his struggles from his family or not wanting to burden them with his ailments. This secrecy and desire to protect his loved ones suggest that his health problems are significant and potentially serious.
"Text Messages from Mom, Part One" reveals the father's health problems through the mother's worried messages about his hospital visits and requests for the sons to pray for him. These messages indicate that the father's health issues have escalated to the point where he requires medical attention and possibly treatment, causing concern and fear for his well-being.
Lastly, "At Noon, in the Gym, with Dad" portrays the father's physical limitations and struggles with his health as he faces difficulty playing basketball with his sons. The poem conveys that the father's health problems have affected his ability to engage in physical activities and spend quality time bonding with his children, highlighting the impact of his ailments on his personal life and relationships. Overall, these poems collectively provide insight into the father's health challenges, emphasizing the significance of his condition and its effects on both himself and his family.