This is one of those rare books that wins all the awards and actually lives up to the hype. Kwame Alexander nailed the voice—Josh's narration feels authentic, funny, and real, not like an adult trying to sound like a kid.

The verse format is the secret weapon here. It makes the book feel fast and accessible while still packing emotional punch. Kids who normally resist reading tear through it because it doesn't feel like work. And the basketball metaphors and rhythm give it a musicality that sticks with you.

The story itself is straightforward but effective: twin brothers navigating middle school, first crushes, changing dynamics, and ultimately a family health crisis that forces everyone to grow up a little. It's heavy at the end but earned, not trauma-porn. The parents are present and loving, which is refreshing.

This is a genuine recommendation for middle schoolers—it's the kind of book that can hook a reluctant reader or deepen a voracious one. High WISE across the board, and it actually holds up to modern reading standards. Not dated, not boring, just good.