This book topic is very much outside of what I normally read as I don't think I have picked up more than one or two sports-based titles. The quick-pace of the novel along with the family dynamics made me invested in the story, unable to put it down until I was finished reading.

The Crossover is a beautifully crafted middle-grade coming-of-age story told in free verse and hip-hop poetry, brings together the mental and physical demands of the sport of basketball along with the understanding of how to appreciate loved ones while they are around supporting you.

Twin brothers Josh and Jordan (JB), are the star athletes on their middle-school basketball team, and without them, the team seems to fall apart. The two boys are learning how to grow and develop their skills on the court while growing up into teenagers. Their father is struggling with health issues that impact the boys' abilities to play, and they must choose between the sport and family.

After a major event that shakes their family down, Josh and Jordan must decide if they are going to continue playing at one of the most important games of their young careers or if they are going to care for family matters.

Very well-written and emotional, The Crossover is a book that I see myself recommending in the future. 

Phew, Adam Silvera did me dirty with this story. I thought that it would be an interesting read about some new technology (AKA Death-Cast) that would bring two strangers together to live out their last day together...BUT NO. This story was so much more than that. This is the first book that has made me choke up since I read My Sister's Keeper by Jodi Picoult in like sixth grade. 

I was not sure if I was going to enjoy this one because the beginning started a little slow for me, but my mind quickly changed. I was entranced by the way the characters developed, grew, and inspired each other throughout the story. Silvera did a phenomenal job of creating a web of characters that built on one another while developing themselves along the way. 

Rufus and Mateo were truly a dynamic duo, to the literal and figurative sense. Not only did they complement each other, but they also grew and developed to become extremely dynamic characters. They helped each other cope with and understand the tragedy that occurred in their past, and watching this was close to magical. I did not expect Rufus to be the character he was, due to the initial introduction readers get of him, but I am so glad I was wrong about him.

After further consideration of the story, however, I do wish that the romantic relationship between Mateo and Rufus didn't happen. I don't think that it took away from the story so much as I think the story might have been even a little bit stronger had the relationship remained platonic. I think by taking this route, Silvera could have really run with the fact that both Rufus and Mateo felt like they had to push away their true friends on the end day so they would not be affected by the aftermath of their deaths, and because of this, they built a strong friendship in the one day they had together.

**I will definitely say, however, if you are at all triggered by death, know that this book focuses A LOT on death. Obviously from the title, it can be assumed that there will be death, but as someone whose anxiety is triggered by thinking about death, I did have to step away from this book a few times to re-center myself. **

I was overtaken with emotions, laughing, scoffing, tearing up. This book brought so many emotions to the table that I was not mentally prepared for, but I regret nothing about reading this story. 

Read a few of the stories during the holiday season. Will pick up again next holiday season. 

This is an amazing story with beautiful illustrations. Jacqueline Woodson did an amazing job crafting a story that teachers readers that even though someone's story may be different, it does not mean it is any less valuable. Through the lense of young children, The Day You Begin is inspirational and hopefully. I will definitely be recommendin  this book.