Gr 9 Up–Rex and Carli, both juniors, play basketball for different high schools. At first glance, they both feel an immediate attraction. During a game, Rex blows a kiss to his mom before he shoots, and Carli thinks it’s for her. A few minutes later they meet, when Carli falls into a faint, and Rex catches her. The story is told from the alternating perspectives of this most appealing couple as they experience their first love, struggle through polarizing feelings about basketball, and witness the consequences of hiding secrets. Tamani allows readers a deep dive into the glory and mess of new relationships, while also providing Carli and Rex with family back stories that give their actions and reasoning credibility.
VERDICT The immediacy of Tamani’s writing, imbued with wonderful sensory moments as the two protagonists let their guards down, will ensure that this engaging story has wide appeal.
Be the first reader to comment.
Comment Policy:
Comment should not be empty !!!