by Gene Luen Yang
First Second, 2020. 445 pgs. Young Adult Comics
Gene is an artist and understands stories, so when he hears about the boys’ varsity basketball team at the high school where he teaches, he knows that this is his next story to tell. But, he doesn’t know anything about basketball. The varsity team, the Dragons, is having a phenomenal season that is decades in the making. Each win brings them closer to the California State Championships, but as Gene gets to know the individual players, he realizes that their stories are just as thrilling as any comic book. He knows that he must follow this story to its end, but he doesn’t realize that it will change the lives of Dragons and his own.
This comic book was as exciting, exhilarating, and hopeful as any adventure or superhero comic. There were funny, laugh-out-loud moments, especially from Yang’s wife. I felt a deep connection to a number of the players, and appreciated that Yang provided stories for most of the varsity players, not just the stars, as well as controversial topics regarding the team. The illustrations are colorful, fun, and give life to the story of the Dragons. While I personally enjoy basketball stories, this would be a great read for anyone who enjoys stories about overcoming adversity, sports, or graphic nonfiction.
TT
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