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Becoming Muhammad Ali

Fiction | Novel/Book in Verse | Middle Grade | Published in 2020

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Book Brief

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James Patterson, Kwame Alexander

Becoming Muhammad Ali

Fiction | Novel/Book in Verse | Middle Grade | Published in 2020
Book Details
Pages

320

Format

Novel/Book in Verse • Fiction

Setting

Louisville, Kentucky • 1950s

Publication Year

2020

Audience

Middle grade

Recommended Reading Age

10-14 years

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Super Short Summary

Becoming Muhammad Ali by James Patterson and Kwame Alexander is a biographical and historical fiction novel about Cassius Clay’s childhood. The story spans from 1954 to 1958, depicting his early boxing career and experiences with racism in Louisville, Kentucky. Through the guidance of his family and a boxing coach, Joe Martin, Clay dreams of becoming the best boxer in the world. The novel discusses racial violence.

Inspirational

Hopeful

Emotional

Playful

Contemplative

Reviews & Readership

4.5

6,016 ratings

85%

Loved it

12%

Mixed feelings

3%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Becoming Muhammad Ali by James Patterson and Kwame Alexander is appreciated for its engaging narrative and inspirational depiction of young Muhammad Ali. The blend of prose and verse captivates young readers and brings Ali's early life to vivid life. However, some critics argue that the book oversimplifies complex events and lacks depth for older audiences.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Becoming Muhammad Ali?

A reader who enjoys sports biographies with an inspirational tone, like I Am Malala by Malala Yousafzai, will be captivated by Becoming Muhammad Ali. This book blends a compelling narrative with poetry, making it ideal for fans of books that highlight perseverance and the triumph of the human spirit, such as The Crossover by Kwame Alexander.

4.5

6,016 ratings

85%

Loved it

12%

Mixed feelings

3%

Not a fan

Character List

Cassius Clay/Muhammad Ali

A determined young boy in the West End neighborhood of Louisville who discovers boxing as a way to channel his anger and ambitions, aspiring to become the greatest boxer while navigating the challenges of growing up in a racially divided society.

Cassius’s supportive younger brother who admires and emulates him, sharing a close bond and joining him in his boxing journey.

Cassius’s best friend and fictional character who provides narration and perspective on Cassius’s life, offering insights into the emotional truths and challenges faced by Cassius.

The nurturing and faith-driven mother of Cassius and Rudy, who supports Cassius in his boxing aspirations while instilling values of family and faith.

A police officer and boxing coach who mentors Cassius, teaching him how to channel his emotions and work toward becoming a successful boxer.

Cassius’s father, a sign painter whose work spans the racial tensions in Louisville, providing for his family despite his distant relationship with Cassius.

Cassius’s grandfather who influences Cassius with his stories and wisdom about their family’s history and identity, shaping Cassius’s understanding of who he is.

An intimidating figure in Cassius’s life who serves as a primary antagonist, challenging Cassius both personally and in the boxing ring.

Book Details
Pages

320

Format

Novel/Book in Verse • Fiction

Setting

Louisville, Kentucky • 1950s

Publication Year

2020

Audience

Middle grade

Recommended Reading Age

10-14 years

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