Question

In a short paragraph, explain who you believe Kwame Alexander’s target audience for The Crossover is. Do you think the style of the novel appeals to his target audience? Why or why not? Use one detail from the interview as well as one piece of text evidence from the “Warm-Up” or “First Quarter” sections of the novel to support your answer. (4 points) for 4th grade

Answer 1

I believe Kwame Alexander's target audience for The Crossover is young readers, particularly those who are interested in sports and poetry. The style of the novel appeals to his target audience because it is fast-paced, energetic, and written in verse. In an interview, Alexander mentions that he wanted to create a story that young boys could connect with and enjoy. In the "Warm-Up" section of the novel, the main character Josh describes the excitement of playing basketball, saying, "I'm the greatest, like Muhammad Ali / I float like a butterfly, sting like a bee." This text evidence shows how Alexander's use of poetry and sports imagery can engage young readers who are interested in basketball and want to feel the thrill of the game.