PDF downloads of all 1699 LitCharts literature guides, and of every new one we publish. 0000010269 00000 n Said he didn't want to miss Bible school. ESSENTIAL QUESTION: How does the structure of the poem convey the speaker's message? Josh that he's mean and doesn't deserve the distinction, especially after what he did to. Get this assignment written for you by Expert Writers in this subject. Josh tells her hes busy, and she says she will see them at the rec center. 0000028950 00000 n 0000001668 00000 n Mom and Dad's closet is off limits. By analyzing how Alexander is able to use voice, word choice, sentence fluency and original ideas to write a powerful story, students will be able to create a story that reflects their own original idea. Change), You are commenting using your Twitter account. He even uses the word churlish to describe himself. Because he's relying on physical communication and violence to express himself, he's less successful and therefore, more upset. Josh and, in a hospital and now, Dad hates doctors. His voice is as loud as thunder. Basketball is extremely important to them, and they both want to play professionally someday. He and JB lock eyes; theres that seeing-a-ghost sensation again. However, by asking Dad to call him by his real name instead of "Filthy," Josh begins to take control of the kind of person he wants to be going forward by dictating how people talk about him. Dad says he needs to get back on the courthe misses it too much. So I knew that the book would be told from the vantage point of a boy. Vondie has a girlfriend now, too. So, if I could figure out what to do with a sequel to make it still compelling and meaningful and significant and keep it in that era. However, this also means that Dad then isn't properly managing his condition, which puts him at risk of ending up in the hospital for an emergency. My mom was a school principal My dad played basketball before I was born. Josh wants a world outside of basketball, and he wants his relationship with JB to remain unchanged. Tomorrow is the Last Day of School Before Christmas Vacation, Usually, Josh helps JB study, but JBs been studying alone lately. Struggling with distance learning? I am writing a prequel to The Crossover. The only caution I have for this book is making sure it is not overly analyzed. I think it was very insightful inThe Crossoverto include the relationship Josh had with his coach. She is at the house for dinner and Josh is surprised to hear JB asking for seconds of the healthy food. When Dad holds his chest, it's a signal that he's not okay and he's likely lying to Josh. After dinner, Dad takes Josh and. She runs past the boys' room and when, pull through and sends his love. Josh feels inspired when he is on the court, and this comes out in the rhymes that flow through him when he plays. a principal. 0000008243 00000 n Here is a poem from The Crossover: Dear Jordan without u i am empty, the goal with no net, seems my life was broken shattered, like puzzle pieces on the court. Sometimes / you have to / lean back / a little / and / fade away / to get / the best / shot (191). And so, I was like, 'I gotta use this word.' He unleashes a killer crossover and everyone is hollering as Dad dribbles to the hoop. We see how angst ridden sibling rivalries can be and how challenging those relationships can be for both parents and children. Um, so yeah. When JB echoes, Yeah, Dad, can we? (189), the word we has never sounded so sweet to Josh. This also offers hope that, if Josh can catch the ball next time, he might be able to make things better. Some of the language and experiences are counter to my own, which gives me a realistic glimpse into the life of an African American family. Creating notes and highlights requires a free LitCharts account. Osborne-Bartucca, Kristen. Miss Sweet Tea shooting baskets at the other court. Whether youre looking for The Tell-Tale Heart, The Hate U Give, The Gettysburg Address, or current science articles and simulations, Actively Learn is the free go-to source to help you guide your students' growth in critical thinking all year. Josh's letter offers the reader multiple ways to read it, though each way offers the same main point: Josh's loneliness is killing him, and he misses his brother. Josh is making moves and dribbling; Dad gets the ball, winks, dips, and sweats. Josh decides to sit with the team today instead of up with Mom and Dad. That it was going to be a 12-year-old boy. Joshs life and his humanity, as opposed to just reading about it. What thoughts and emotions does Josh express in "Dear Jordan"? Devon Kibbey: How did you decide that you were going to write the story from Joshs perspective? He turns out the light to go to sleep and hears his brother say Thanks.. Eighth grader Amy McGee's letter starts out this way: The apology poem that author Kwame Alexander wrote from Josh to JB in The Crossover is called "Dear Jordan." resource to ask questions, find answers, and discuss thenovel. And, eventually after maybe a draft of it I knew that I wanted him to have a twin brother. Its called Booked. Students LOVE reading and analyzing Kobe Bryant's "Dear Basketball" Poem. Hi Abby, Once again you have given detailed examination of the authors use of language. The team thanks JB profusely for getting them to the championship. Josh is extremely regretful for what he has done, never trying to defend himself, but JB naturally decides to keep his distance all the same. The students at Rutland Town School had some questions for the author. -Graham S. The timeline below shows where the character JB appears in, Dad insisted that the music was "fast and free" just like Josh and his brother, he does all the time--even if there's no chance of winning. Its life changing. In the next several poems, the . What, isn't that what you wanted, Filthy? Our, "Sooo much more helpful thanSparkNotes. 10. First, his churlish and aggressive behavior toward his twin has almost severed their relationship. Alexis calls and Josh answers; she says hello and asks for JB. Now can you go make my French toast please?. Josh, mine it. He wonders if she actually plays. Dad falls, his eyes roll, and Josh screams. JB is running and gunning; he is a shooting star. On page 185, Coach shares with Josh that he got into a fight with his brother in high school and now they are estranged. Then, by using Josh's word and sharing a smile with his brother, JB is able to say that he's willing to reopen lines of communication and reconnect with his brother. As Josh continues to cast himself as the helper in the family, he begins to see that doing so will actually allow him to be more successful. So, certainly there are some things from my life that have probably creeped into this book. You earned it, Filthy, he says,sliding the ring on my finger.My heart leapsinto my throat. When we asked them how they liked the book, they raved about the book. He smiles at Mom, gives, happy. The Crossover has been winning top prizes and awards in childrens literature. Our, "Sooo much more helpful thanSparkNotes. The boys know theyre getting books like they always do for Christmas, but Dad tells them hes proud of how theyve done in school so they can pick out a gift and hell get it for them. It refers to a basketball move (described in the . There is a hint of a smile for Josh with that. He also wonders how to apologize to, his best to make up for what he did. The title of this book (The Crossover) is an important phrase and idea throughout the book. And Im so thankful. This again shows how Dad prioritizes basketball over his health. As he meditates, Josh sees a picture of, Second-Person. The students at Rutland Town School had some questions for the author. 0000016479 00000 n Vermont Public's News CoverageGovernment & Politics | The Vermont Economy | Criminal Justice & Public Safety | Arts & Culture | Education | Health | Energy & Environment | Food & Agriculture | Series & Specials, Investigations | Brave Little State | Vermont Edition | New England News Collaborative (NENC) | VPR Archive. What does her reacti He and his own brother are estranged, and he does not want JB and Josh to be like that. Theyre having a fantastic time, and everyone there is watching. He asks if Josh and, On Christmas Eve. This book is also available as a graphic novel! Reproduced by permission of HarperCollins Publishers. I would use this book with adolescent students as a way to inspire them to explore self-expression through writing. Mom and Dad are silent and serious in the front. The words and rhythmic flow of these words on the page depict Joshs inner thoughts; his flow on the court. GradeSaver, 9 September 2019 Web. In the list of Things I Learn at Dinner, Alexander gives her even more nuance in terms of divorced parents, a coping mechanism (She shoots hoops at the Rec to relax" [172]), and troubles of her own (Her mom doesnt want her playing basketball" [172]). In a letter to JB, written in two columns that can be read together or separately, Josh says that without his brother, he's empty. Dear Jordan Josh writes his letter. JB echoes.And the word wenever soundedsweeter. The Crossover is a wonderful mentor text for adolescent writers. He knows that this means, to Dad. His life seems broken now, and he feels as though he doesn't fit anywhere. At the stoplight, JB and Josh look out the window at the same time, and Josh knows what his brother is thinking. Mom and Dad's choice to turn the conversation to JB and his relationship with Miss Sweet Tea shows again that they understand his new relationship is a normal part of his coming of age. The fact that Dad does his best to correct himself and call Josh what he wants to be called shows that Dad is happy to show Josh the same kind of understanding that he showed JB when he asked him to invite Miss Sweet Tea for dinner. i can no longer fit. 0000001216 00000 n Josh asks, incredulous, about the house, Mom, him, and JB. With his eyes on a future at Duke, Josh seems to have it all. The fact that Josh was driven to (unintentional) violence at all speaks to the intensity of his feelings, which are made even more intense by the fact that Josh is entering puberty and starting to grow up. "Mom doesn't like us eating out" to "How Do You Spell Trouble? Josh hears Dad ask if he feels better and opens his eyes. Josh whispers to Dad that JB wont talk to him, and Dad replies that he just has to let the smoke clear. pro-fuse-ly. And for the first time in my lifeI don't want to be. Mom smiles and says hell be back on the team in no time, but she warns him not to press his luck. Refine any search. Even though he is. He wants Dad to talk to Mom because he feels like he needs to be in the playoffs and is letting his teammates down. When Josh tells the reader about Mom's dislike of standards and giving JB the vocabulary words, Josh demonstrates his growing maturity and that he cares for others. 0000010458 00000 n To get ready for the season, I wentto three summer camps. This indicates that coming of age can happen suddenly and horrifically at times. Vondie giggles. The Crossover is flying off library shelves like a half-court sinker. What was the main purpose of the Declaration of Independence? Sure, writers, we write from observation, imagination, experience. the playoffs are in two days, his grades were good, and the team needs him. This further allows students to practice at life as they experience Joshs reactions to conflict relevant to their own lives in the story. PDF downloads of all 1699 LitCharts literature guides, and of every new one we publish. Sherry Taylor. Theyre not alone. Their mom is assistant principal at their school. Essay Topics. 80). The Childrens Bookshow is a registered charity no. This week, Josh makes the honor roll, watches the team win Game Nine, eats lunch alone, walks home alone, tries to atone day and night, sits next to JB at dinner (JB moves), does JBs chores (JB says nothing), and says hes sorry (JB doesnt listen). His family unit is strong, though it is not always perfect. Take a look! When he's able to steal the ball out of Josh's crossover, it speaks to the skills he still has on the court and the progress that Josh still has to make in order to become Da Man.. JB comes running out of the bathroom.What'd she say, Josh? Keen editors and support staff will supervise the task for you to guarantee Quality and ORIGINAL paper that scores high. We only learn more about her personality towards the end of the book when she comes to dinner with JBs family. His dad revives and spends nineteen days in the hospital as Josh tries to get used to his new existence alone without JB who used to be his best friend. 1090 0 obj <>stream This illustrates how a person can use language to shape their identity. Find related themes, quotes, symbols, characters, and more. She asks him sternly if hes lost his mind, and she says boys who dont have self-control end up behind bars. Dad is heading for the hoop when he stops short, screams, clutches his chest, and drops the ball. 0000021078 00000 n He writes for children of all ages. And after that type of success, Rutland Town seventh grader Joe Anderson wanted to know it theres more to come. As Josh and JB take over caring for their father, the tables turn and suddenly, they're thrown into adult roles. All Rights Reserved. Dylan DiPietro: How did you react when you learned that The Crossover won the 2015 Newbury Award? With Dad no longer in the bleachers, it suggests that he'll be the one in trouble this time, while JB was the one who suffered last time. "Dear Jordan" from The Crossover A cleave poem about twin brothers and basketball. 0000007406 00000 n It doesnt help that his Dad keeps having health issues, but wont go to the doctor because he thinks this is a stupid waste of time. There is a big vocabulary test tomorrow and Josh is worried for his brother. 0000003834 00000 n We see a strong marriage through the eyes of Josh; a relationship so strong he often alludes to the fact that he knows his parents are having sex; and though this appears to gross him out we can read between the lines to see his relief that all is good. Its wonderful. Need Help with this Assignment? The Question and Answer section for The Crossover is a great One of the big changes in Joshs world is that his twin brother Jordan has started spending more time talking to girls and less time playing ball with him. }t>PPbDd# [:~d>L\GA!jlTbwK0mc.k^s0Ox\,b+vG[/awOz*7;+g'z;Z6Q:HL= mRJ+FWc-} WzH0 f"z77^z@5+BG'2WHQ~Iw}G4x}4GvP{6@hOpZk-'I}%G_k@+Kd tJxqcZw/;j 9/D> =f'(tfu@ g8 (^}Q:Kk3j&Re]=(\jcJska-47-ZCH59K5yD+3$W6eSFTi^1h8GPcGvXxiTH}"P;@6sumtuL FUEmp%L_Xtj-XN(6\a'DS>_Uby2L+WnVm7e `67NL"M}lMlX1Z "Xk'joePIh|Z/vB0eAu9Hl cpF^&=?!+y\S^kLS_X71m m'sJ`U"6="-=8{Ud JB is on the other side of the backseat, but Josh feels miles away from all of them. JB asks.And even though I never opened my mouth,I say, Thanks,becauseit is. As Josh pulls out the book, he sees Miss Sweet Tea and, also afraid that Mom will reach her tipping point and ban basketball if he and, tomorrow, concerned about Dad, and hates how his hair feels, he can't sleep mostly because, Surprised. I was going to sort of remember what I went through during that age and I sort of knew that that was going to be the point of view, from his perspective. Apology Poem and Epistolary Poem "Dear Jordan" (p. 159) Found Poems "Article #1 in the Daily News (December 14)" (p. 155) "Article #2 in the Daily News (January 14)" (p. 225-226) . Want to help more children attend our events in the future? As in: Dad's in a comabecause of a myocardial infarction,which is the same thingmy grandfather died of.So what does that mean for meand JB? 0000003750 00000 n Josh does CPR, but nothing changes. His Dad has a heart attack and slips into a coma. The characters listen to the same music as they do, covet the same shoes, use the same slang. The paired text students will look at is Michael Jordan's 2003 Retirement Letter, also titled "Dear Basketball."In 2015, Bryant announced his retirement . As Josh plays in the final game of the season, his Dad dies from a massive heart attack. Vondie is suffocated by the defense and JB cant make the shot; the Wildcats are down at the end of the first half. Previously, in "Dear Edward" episode 7, we saw Edward get to know Mahira, Jordan's girlfriend. Josh's choice to apply this word to three very different areas of his life brings all of what he's currently worried about--JB, basketball, and Dad--together, illustrating again how language allows Josh to effectively construct his identity and his life. In "Dear Jordan," the poem describes Josh's apology to his brother and his emptiness without him. And it is about the father when he was 12-years-old. He said, "I listen to instrumental jazz when Im writing, and I looked over to see what song it was and it was a song by Horace Silver called Filthy McNasty, and decided I am so going to use that name in this book.". Thus, readers come to know how the power of words and vibrant language evoke deep emotional responses as we read about Joshs life. 10. I mean, you imagine Steph Curry going back behind his back with the ball or Allen Iverson doing his crossover or Michael Jordan or LeBron James moving to the basket in this rhythmic, energetic, really awesome way. Josh also has a strong relationship with his basketball coach and receives much guidance and support from him as well. He also thinks that it's ironic that, drills, Coach leads the team in meditation. She was a VPR contributor from 2006 to 2020. Detailed quotes explanations with page numbers for every important quote on the site. The Crossover Characters Next Josh Josh Josh is the twelve-year-old protagonist of the novel. And Iwonder what's in the notes. Outside their classroom, seventh and eighth graders at Rutland Town School are bounce passing and showing off their basketball moves, including the move their latest read was named for the crossover. How are family relationships depicted? Choose only one theme and only one poem. I'm not paying attentionto anything he's sayingor to the dummy. Just because he is elated to be the Daily News Junior MVP, doesnt mean it doesnt sting when Alexis and JB dont seem pleased at all. At the end of the chapter, why does the writing style change so drastically from what it was before, to sud He did not mean to get upset, he offers. His eyes shut. Excitement--like what Dad might have felt upon receiving this letter--likely raised his blood pressure and made him vomit, which indicates that Dad is even sicker than he's letting on. 0000006505 00000 n When JB and Josh are in a fight, she takes JBs side without question because this is the expectation for her as a girlfriend. As Josh begins to think of himself as a member of a choir and finds the ability to cheer for JB, he also begins to recognize that the rest of the team is made up of players who are also very good and deserving of recognition. The original text plus a side-by-side modern translation of. One night while on the way to a game, Joshs Dad gets pulled over for a broken taillight. Jordan insists that everyone call him JB. Mom gently chides him for eavesdropping but laughs when he says he learned that strategy from her. Dad bites into his third donut and, when, out of you what they expect out of their own lives. Profusely means to pour forth in great quantity. But then, things start to unravel as JB starts to get more interested in girls. Coach, Dad, and the crowd all scream for Josh to pass the ball. Alexander reveals in a subtle and moving way how eventually the brothers start to move incrementally closer together again, such as with Josh writing JB a letter or giving him his vocabulary study materials, but it is realistic in that it is painful and happens in fits and starts. 0000031472 00000 n are down by seven. We raised nearly 7000 in our online auction! Josh was estranged from himself when he threw the ball at JB. Dad's championship ring.Between the bouncingand sobbing, I whisper, Why? 0000007293 00000 n drives home from the hospital, the car is silent. And so that was the first character that I created. They are like "two stars / stealing sun" and "like two brothers / burning up. 0000007127 00000 n Thus, readers come to know how the power of words and vibrant language evoke deep emotional responses as we read about Joshs life. They are like two stars / stealing sun and like two brothers / burning up. Dad tries to break the tension by talking about Christmas and the turkey. You'll be able to access your notes and highlights, make requests, and get updates on new titles. 0000003945 00000 n 0000010816 00000 n Dad races down the stairs to yell at the ref that what happened to, call the doctor or else. (including. Dad sighs that the boys are getting older and they will manage. 0000016558 00000 n Find related themes, quotes, symbols, characters, and more. Definitions and examples of 136 literary terms and devices. 16 0 obj <> endobj xref 16 46 0000000016 00000 n Seventh grader Dylan DiPietro wonders how that feels. Get up to speed on the news Vermont is talking about, delivered to your inbox every weekday morning. 0000014949 00000 n Alexander says he came across the name while working on the story. As a consequence for his actions, his mom suspends him from the team. "FOURTH QUARTER" to "Free Throws" Summary and Analysis, "Bad News" to "Before" Summary and Analysis. PDFs of modern translations of every Shakespeare play and poem. Because of this, his request to stop at the sneaker store becomes something he does purely to show JB he sees him and cares about him and the things he's interested in. I would say there are some gender stereotypes present in the book. This is also an attempt to make Josh understand this, since Josh's narration implies that he doesn't see JB's relationship as something normal or expected. The The Crossover quotes below are all either spoken by JB or refer to JB. Joe Anderson: Will there be a sequel with Josh and Jordan playing high school basketball? From the doorway, a stricken Mom says he should go sit down for dinner. Fill in your details below or click an icon to log in: You are commenting using your WordPress.com account. Amy is an award winning journalist who has worked in print and radio in Vermont since 1991. He's nearly six feet tall and has a twin, JB. The fact that Miss Sweet Tea's sister attends Duke, the college that Josh wants to one day attend, suggests that Josh might actually like Miss Sweet Tea if he were willing to get to know her.
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