In at least 3-4 complete sentences, discuss how your feelings about the narrator Josh in Crossover by Kwame Alexander have developed over the course of this verse novel. Be sure to include at least 3 specific examples from the story in your answer. What was your initial impression of him? Describe what words or events, in which poems, shape your feelings about him. What, if anything, has changed your impression of him?
My initial impression of Josh was that he was a talented basketball player who had a close bond with his twin brother JB. However, as the story progressed, I began to see him as a complex character struggling with personal and family issues. In the poem "No Words", Josh's frustration and confusion are evident as he struggles to come to terms with his father's infidelity. This moment made me empathize with Josh and see him in a more vulnerable light.
In the poem "Missed", Josh's feelings of betrayal and abandonment by his father become more pronounced, causing me to feel even more sympathetic towards him. Additionally, his internal conflict between wanting to follow in his father's footsteps and realizing his father's flaws added depth to his character.
The turning point for me was in the poem "The Shot", where Josh grapples with the pressure of making a game-winning shot. This moment showed his growth and resilience, as he ultimately chose to stay true to himself despite the high stakes. Overall, my feelings towards Josh have developed from seeing him as just a talented athlete to a multidimensional character dealing with personal struggles and growth.