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Becoming Kareem

Growing Up On and Off the Court
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( 1,936 ratings, 352 reviews)
Book Hero Magic crafted this summary to help describe this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! Summary
Becoming Kareem by Kareem Abdul-Jabbar and Raymond Obstfeld is a compelling memoir that delves into the life of the legendary basketball player, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar. It explores his transformation from a shy young boy named Lew Alcindor into an NBA icon. Through personal anecdotes, Abdul-Jabbar shares his experiences with racism, his development as an athlete, and the influences that shaped his identity and career, offering an inspiring glimpse into his life journey beyond the basketball court.
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Format: Paperback / softback
$1999
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Book Hero Magic created this recommendation. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! IS THIS YOUR NEXT READ?

As you explore this insightful memoir, you will find inspiration in the journey of one of basketball's greatest legends. This book offers a captivating look at how the determination, cultural influences, and mentors shaped his life, making it perfect for both sports enthusiasts and those interested in personal growth stories.

Book Hero thinking about your next read

The sports legend's first memoir for young readers (now in paperback!) explores his path from his days as a shy boy named Lew Alcindor to becoming Kareem, an important story published at time when the national conversation around sports and racial injustice has intensified.

Book Hero Magic formatted this description to make it easier to read. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! Description

In his first memoir written especially for young readers, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar focuses on his relationships with several important coaches in his life, including his father, his high-school coach, and Coach Wooden, as he tells the story of his life and career.

At one time, Lew Alcindor was just another kid from New York City with all the usual problems: He struggled with fitting in, with pleasing a strict father, and with overcoming shyness that made him feel socially awkward. But with a talent for basketball, and an unmatched team of supporters, Lew Alcindor transformed to become Kareem Abdul-Jabbar.

From a childhood made difficult by racism and prejudice to a record-smashing career on the basketball court as an adult, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar's life was packed with "coaches" who taught him right from wrong and led him on the path to greatness. His parents, coaches Jack Donahue and John Wooden, Muhammad Ali, Bruce Lee, and many others played important roles in Abdul-Jabbar's life and sparked him to become an activist for social change and advancement.

The inspiration from those around him, and his drive to find his own path in life, are highlighted in this personal and awe-inspiring journey. Becoming Kareem offers a profound insight into the influences that shaped Abdul-Jabbar's life and career.

Book Hero Magic summarised reviews for this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! HOW HAS THIS BEEN REVIEWED?

Becoming Kareem is praised for its insightful exploration of Kareem Abdul-Jabbar's journey, highlighting themes of racial justice, personal growth, and intellectual awakening. The book delivers an honest and powerful narrative beyond sports, offering rich reflections on the civil rights movement and poignant observations about being black in America. It's considered an essential read for its timely and accessible storytelling, suitable for both educational and discussion purposes.

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Book Details

INFORMATION

ISBN: 9780316555418

Publisher: Little, Brown & Company

Format: Paperback / softback

Date Published: 29 November 2018

Country: United States

Imprint: Little, Brown Young Readers

Audience: General / adult

DIMENSIONS

Spine width: 24.0mm

Width: 138.0mm

Height: 212.0mm

Weight: 296g

Pages: 304

About the Author

Kareem Abdul-Jabbar is the NBA's all-time leading scorer and a Basketball Hall of Fame inductee. Since retiring, he has been an actor, a basketball coach, and the author of many New York Times bestsellers. Abdul-Jabbar is also a columnist for many news outlets, such as The Guardian and The Hollywood Reporter, writing on a wide range of subjects including race, politics, age, and pop culture. In 2012, he was selected as a U.S. Cultural Ambassador and in 2016 Abdul-Jabbar was awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom, the nation's highest civilian award which recognizes exceptional meritorious service. He lives in Southern California.

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