Power Forward

Preview: Zayd Saleem dreams of becoming a basketball star, but his parents want him to focus on school and violin practice. When he secretly joins a basketball league, Zayd must balance his passion with family expectations—but will his big dreams clash with reality?

Perfect for readers, who:
• Enjoy sports-themed stories with relatable family dynamics
• Like The Crossover by Kwame Alexander or Dragons in a Bag by Zetta Elliott
• Want an uplifting story about perseverance and cultural identity

Why You'll Love It:
✅ Authentic portrayal of a Pakistani-American boy navigating dual passions
✅ Fast-paced, dialogue-driven storytelling with humor
✅ Teaches teamwork and honesty through exciting basketball scenes

Also consider the below aspects before you select:
❌ Some basketball terminology may require explanation for very young readers
❌ Brief scenes of parental conflict could resonate differently with sensitive kids

Verdict: A slam-dunk choice for young sports fans craving heart and hustle!