Book Review: Hardcourt: Stories from 75 years of the National Basketball Association

 

1. BIBLIOGRAPHY

Bowen, F., & Ransome, J. (2022). Hardcourt: Stories from 75 years of the National Basketball Association. Margaret K. McElderry Books.

ISBN: 1534460438

2.  PLOT SUMMARY

This non-fiction chapter book takes readers through the exciting history of basketball. From when it was initially created 1891 to different historical and iconic events that have made basketball a popular sport among millions. With over 75 years of history, this story shares different facts about the sport, along with challenges that came along the way.

3.CRITICAL ANALYSIS

This book is fantastic! I am more of a football fan, but this book was definitely a page turner. It is loaded with interesting facts and history. This book covers everything! From how the game was created, the rules, to founding professional teams. It also details key moments in basketball, different personalities that challenged the game, and many of the successes that make this game a fan favorite. Bowen brilliantly divided this book into quarters, much like the game and he was sure to include important facts and statistics about the game and key players. I must add, this book goes beyond just the players, it provides readers with in depth information about the game. Don’t get me wrong, key players in the game like Michael Jordan, Shaq, Bird, Magic, Kobe, among many others were mentioned, but the history of the game is not centered around them.  Again, I am not a huge basketball fan, but I definitely learned a lot from reading this book.

The illustrations are magnificent! Starting with the cover image of Jordan and his iconic face as he through his shot. That image perfectly captures the emotions of that moment as he is trying to score. Because this book was written around the time of Kobe’s death, Ransome was sure to pay tribute to him and his daughter at the start of the book with an image of Kobe and a butterfly to represent his daughter. Additionally, each image of the players that were illustrated were beautifully done and effectively represented the energy behind his classic sport. Scrolling through each page, and seeing the different images of the players, who were easy to recognize reminded me why basketball is such a huge sport. Ransome also paid extra close attention to details in his illustrations like the image of the basketball going through the hoop.  In that image, the hoop gives the impression that it is moving. The illustrations definitely add to the writings of Bowen, and it is easy get hooked on this book, especially for young aspiring athletes.

4. REVIEW EXCERPT(S)

Starred review in Booklist: “Even the youngest children will recognize the hands-on enjoyment.”

Starred review in Kirkus: “A thrilling integration of verse and image, motivating all to serious fun.”

Starred review in School Library Journal: “An appealing book.”

5. CONNECTIONS

*Lead students in a discussion about their favorite athlete. Ask them why they favor that athlete. Have students create a presentation about their favorite athlete that can be shared with the class. The presentation should include a biography on the player and pictures.  

*Engage students in a debate about who the G.O.A.T. (greatest of all times) in basketball. Students should be able to support their response with research and evidence.    

*Other books about sports:

Bowen, F., & Ransome, J. (2020). Gridiron: Stories from 100 years of the National Football League. Margaret K. McElderry Books.

ISBN: 1481481126

Bowen, F. (2016). The Golden Glove. Peachtree. ISBN: 1561455059

Herman, S. (2017). Messi: A boy who became a star. inspiring children book about Lionel Messi - one of the best soccer players in history. CreateSpace Independent Publishing Platform.

ISBN: 1974634116

Review was written for SHSU MLA course

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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