TL;DR
This young adult novel in verse follows the story of Nick Hall, a 12-year-old boy who isn’t exactly thrilled with school or soccer. However, Nick finds solace and inspiration in the world of words, particularly through his love of literature. As Nick navigates the challenges of family, friendship, and self-discovery, he turns to the power of language to express himself, cope with his emotions, and ultimately find his own voice.
Table of contents
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Author & Writing Background
Kwame Alexander is a renowned poet, educator, and New York Times bestselling author of over 30 books, including the Newbery Medal-winning novel ‘The Crossover’. He is known for his engaging and lyrical writing style, often incorporating verse and hip-hop influences into his works. Alexander is passionate about promoting literacy and inspiring young readers, and his books frequently explore themes of identity, family, and the power of words.
Key Takeaways
The Power of Words
The book emphasizes the transformative power of language and literature. Nick’s journey demonstrates how words can provide solace, inspiration, and a means of self-expression.
Coming-of-Age
’Booked’ is a coming-of-age story that explores the challenges and triumphs of adolescence. Nick grapples with issues such as family dynamics, friendships, first crushes, and finding his place in the world.
Family Relationships
The novel delves into the complexities of family relationships, particularly between Nick and his parents who are going through a separation. Nick learns to navigate these challenges and ultimately finds strength in his family bonds.
Friendship and Belonging
Friendship plays a significant role in Nick’s life, and he finds support and camaraderie in his friends. The book explores the importance of belonging and finding your tribe.
Identity and Self-Discovery
Throughout the story, Nick embarks on a journey of self-discovery, exploring his passions, values, and identity. He learns to embrace his unique voice and find confidence in himself.
Sports and Competition
Soccer is a central theme in the book, as Nick struggles with the pressures of competition and his own expectations. He eventually learns that sportsmanship and personal growth are more important than winning.
Verse Narrative
The novel is written in verse, which adds a unique rhythm and lyrical quality to the storytelling. This style allows for a deeper exploration of Nick’s thoughts and emotions.
Humor and Wit
Despite dealing with serious themes, the book incorporates humor and wit, making it an engaging and enjoyable read for young adults.
FAQ about Booked
Is ‘Booked’ suitable for younger readers?
While the book is categorized as young adult fiction, it deals with some mature themes such as divorce and family conflict. It’s recommended for readers aged 12 and above.
Does ‘Booked’ have a sequel?
Yes, there is a companion novel titled ‘Rebound’ which tells the story of Nick’s father, Chuck Bell, during his teenage years.
What awards has ‘Booked’ received?
‘Booked’ has received several accolades, including the Coretta Scott King Author Honor Award and the NCTE Charlotte Huck Honor.
Booked Quotes
- ”The only way to get smarter is by playing a smarter opponent."
- "Sometimes a win is just a loss in disguise."
- "A book is a dream that you hold in your hand.”