Discover the struggles and triumphs of fourth-grader Zayd Saleem as he pursues his dream of being a basketball star in this bind-up of the complete middle grade series from the acclaimed author of Amina’s Voice and More to the Story.
Zayd Saleem has serious hoop dreams. He’s going to be a basketball star. A legend. There are only a few small things in his way.
For starters, Zayd’s on the scrawny side and gets stomach aches when he’s nervous. He has to convince his coach that he has what it takes to join his best friend Adam on the elite Gold Team. His mom and dad want him to practice his violin way more than his jump shot. Plus, it doesn’t help that his older sister Zara is amazing at every sport she tries.
But Zayd has a lot going for him, too. His grandmother is willing to supply him with all the mango milkshakes he wants. His grandfather has a few tricks up the sleeve of his velour track suit. And his favorite uncle keeps Zayd laughing, even if it’s sometimes so hard he needs to pee. Zayd’s family, combined with his friends, teammates, and his own determination, means he’s got everything he needs to chase his dream. Will he reach it?
Reviews
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Zayd is a welcome character for young readers, who learns that one can be a team player even when facing personal challenges.
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Readers will enjoy watching Zayd grow in his game, his maturity, and his changing family life…A solid read about being your best self on and off the court, with an appealing Muslim protagonist.
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An excellent sports series for younger middle grade or reluctant readers
—School Library Journal -
With just enough action to keep readers turning the pages and a sprinkle of age-appropriate realizations throughout, this small book is a great pick for elementary-age readers….A delightful follow-up from a writer who understands children, family, and culture.
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A promising series opener featuring a welcome diverse main character that will appeal to plenty of sports-loving readers.
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Zayd is a sympathetic protagonist, and his story is told with humor and artfully filled with interesting cultural matter…Readers will cheer for Zayd and look forward to the next volume.