Review by Booklist Review
In this fast-break testimonial, Henderson and Abdul-Qaadir express the latter's deep love of basketball while retracing the path that led her to stardom through school, NCAA competition, shooting hoops with President Obama, and finally, when on the brink of turning pro, giving up the game rather than her hijab, as headgear rules then demanded. Paying tribute throughout to the support of her family and teammates, Abdul-Qaadir describes her long but ultimately successful fight to get the rule changed for those who come after: "My wish, my mission-- / every Muslim girl, / every girl, / knows she has a shot. / Take it!" Ahmed portrays her as a gamer from early childhood, clapping a cap over her first hijab before heading out to the court to tell off a bully ("This scarf? It's my superpower") and going on to pose confidently with ball and headwear in later settings. Photos, further notes, and discussion questions in the back matter give readers further opportunity to understand and appreciate the co-author's achievements and the cost of her choice.
From Booklist, Copyright (c) American Library Association. Used with permission.
Review by Kirkus Book Review
Love of sports and unwavering faith play starring roles in this true story. Abdul-Qaadir, a Black athlete and the first Muslim woman to play NCAA Division I basketball while wearing a hijab, shows talent in childhood, dunking the ball in a child-sized hoop at age 3 and playing against boys at 12. Her grandmother is her biggest cheerleader; her mother reminds her to choose her battles. In high school, she's a star player--but in a playoff game, a referee says she can't play in her hijab. Her teammates back her up, and she plays, becoming the all-time lead scorer in Massachusetts state history. Abdul-Qaadir plays college basketball and is recognized by President Barack Obama for her accomplishments. She's ready to play professionally when "it happens again": She is told she can't play wearing her hijab. She must choose, and she chooses her faith. By the time Abdul-Qaadir and supporters help convince the International Basketball Federation to change the rules, it's too late for her own athletic career but not for other girls'. Lingering on key moments, the well-paced, crisp verse highlights Abdul-Qaadir's strength of character, emphasizing that despite the injustices she faced, she triumphed by living by her principles. Ahmed's playful images of an active Muslim girl dispel stereotypes with joyful representation. (This book was reviewed digitally.) Stirring and impactful. (more information on Abdul-Qaadir, questions, references) (Picture-book biography. 5-8) Copyright (c) Kirkus Reviews, used with permission.
Copyright (c) Kirkus Reviews, used with permission.
