53 pages 1 hour read

Kareem Abdul-Jabbar

Becoming Kareem: Growing Up On and Off the Court

Nonfiction | Autobiography / Memoir | Middle Grade | Published in 2017

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Before You Read

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Super Short Summary

Becoming Kareem: Growing Up On and Off the Court is a 2017 memoir by NBA star and activist Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, chronicling his youth from childhood to his early years in the NBA. He shares family stories, educational experiences, and his sports journey. It also discusses his name and religious change, his engagement with the civil rights movement, and his personal quest for identity and values. This book depicts racial discrimination and violence.

Reviews & Readership

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Review Roundup

Readers of Becoming Kareem appreciate Abdul-Jabbar's candid recounting of his life, his growth as an athlete, and his activism. The memoir is praised for its honesty and inspirational message. However, some feel it occasionally lacks depth in discussing complex issues. Overall, it is seen as an enlightening and motivational read.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Becoming Kareem?

A reader who would enjoy Becoming Kareem by Kareem Abdul-Jabbar is likely interested in sports memoirs, personal growth, and overcoming adversity. Fans of I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings by Maya Angelou or The Last Black Unicorn by Tiffany Haddish will find similar themes of resilience and profound life lessons.

RecommendedReading Age

9-14years

Lexile Level

990L

Book Details

Topics

Sports

Race / Racism

Social Justice

Themes

Identity: Race

Values/Ideas: Justice & Injustice

Values/Ideas: Win & Lose

Genre

Children's Literature

Biography