Becoming Kareem

Reach for this book when your child feels like an outsider or is struggling to reconcile their public talents with their private identity. It is an ideal choice for middle schoolers navigating the pressure to fit in while discovering their own moral compass. Through the lens of a basketball legend, the narrative explores the deep emotional work of self-discovery, faith, and the courage to stand up for social justice. While the sports elements provide an engaging hook, the heart of the story lies in the transition from Lew Alcindor to Kareem Abdul-Jabbar. It tackles complex themes like systemic racism and personal transformation with honesty and nuance. Parents will appreciate the way it models intellectual curiosity and the importance of finding mentors, making it a powerful guide for any young person entering the stage of life where they must define who they are on their own terms.