SWISH! Cheer courtside for a Muslim teen as she joins an all-girls, hijab-wearing basketball team and learns that she’s much more than a score. This energetic graphic novel is inspired by a true story!
Aliya is new to Wisconsin, and everything feels different than Florida. The Islamic school is bigger, the city is colder, and her new basketball team is…well, they stink.
Aliya’s still excited to have teammates (although the team’s captain, Noura, isn’t really Aliya’s biggest fan), and their new coach really understands basketball (even if she doesn’t know much about being Muslim). This season should be a blast…if they could just start to win. As they strengthen their skills on the court, Aliya and the Peace Academy team discover that it takes more than talent to be great—it’s teamwork and self-confidence that defines true success.
For fans of The Crossover and Roller Girl, this graphic novel goes big with humor and heart as it explores culture and perceptions, fitting in and standing out, and finding yourself, both on and off the court.
Reviews
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A lighthearted slam dunk.
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An uplifting graphic novel that celebrates female Muslim athletes and highlights how the teens’ faith, sport, and relationships intersect.
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An inspiring sports story that focuses on more than the score.
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A focused and rewarding sports story that will leave readers cheering for the inspiring Peace Academy team, and a great recommendation for sports fans or new students worried about finding their place.
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… nuance, humor, and depth.
Honors
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A Little Maverick Graphic Novel Reading List Selection
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American Library Association (ALA) Notable Children’s Books
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Beehive Kids Graphic Novel Nominee
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Black-Eyed Susan Book Award Nominee (MD)
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Chicago Public Library Best Book
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Good Housekeeping Best Kids’ Book Award Winner
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Great Stone Face Book Award Nominee (NH) (sponsored by the Children’s Librarians of New Hampshire (CHILIS))
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Maine North Star YA nominee
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The Massachusetts Children’s Book Awards (MCBA)
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Wisconsin library association (WEMTA) Middle School & High School Battle of the Books lists
