69 pages • 2 hours read
Hoops
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Book Brief
192
Book • Fiction
New York City • 1970s
1981
Middle grade
12-18 years
740L
Super Short Summary
Hoops is about Lonnie Jackson, a young basketball talent from Harlem who juggles life between his mother’s house and a motel where he works. As he and his team compete in a basketball tournament under the guidance of their coach, Cal Jones, Lonnie navigates personal struggles and societal challenges, ultimately seeking success and happiness despite his turbulent environment. The novel addresses physical assault.
Gritty
Emotional
Challenging
Inspirational
Hopeful
Reviews & Readership
3,118 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Walter Dean Myers' Hoops receives acclaim for its realistic depiction of inner-city life and the personal growth of its protagonist. Readers appreciate the authentic slang and basketball scenes. Some critics find the plot predictable and secondary characters underdeveloped. Overall, it is praised for its strong message and relatable themes.
Who Should Read Hoops?
A reader who would enjoy Hoops by Walter Dean Myers is typically a young adult with an interest in basketball, underdog stories, and coming-of-age narratives. Fans of The Crossover by Kwame Alexander or Slam! by Nick Hornby will appreciate the similar themes of personal growth, sports, and overcoming adversity.
3,118 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Cal Jones
Cal Jones
A former basketball star turned coach, dealing with personal setbacks while serving as a complex mentor figure to Lonnie.
Mary-Ann
Mary-Ann
Lonnie’s dynamic and independent girlfriend, who balances family challenges with her work at an after-hours club and offers steadfast support to Lonnie.
Mr. O'Donnel
Mr. O'Donnel
A wealthy sponsor of the basketball tournament, whose presence highlights issues of race and power dynamics in the world of sports.
Aggie
Aggie
Cal’s partner and a former music prodigy, who provides maternal guidance and life lessons to Lonnie in his journey.
192
Book • Fiction
New York City • 1970s
1981
Middle grade
12-18 years
740L
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