Ideas for Learners Promoting Literacy, Inquiry, and Meaningful Learning Experiences

Athlete vs. Mathlete by W.C. Mack

 

Book Summary

Owen lives to be on the basketball team, but when a new coach arrives at school, his confidence about his spot on the team starts to get a little shaky. At the same time, his twin brother, Russell, decides he might try out for the basketball team. Russell has always been more interested in math than sports. Is it fair for one twin to crowd out the other's interest?

 
Athlete vs. Mathlete book cover
Athlete vs. Mathlete

Book Review

This is an appealing look at the ways that family and friends can react when people try to break out of their existing boxed roles. Chapters alternate between viewpoints, so readers can see the story unfold from each twin's perspective.


Class Structure Recommendation: Independent Reading

Topics and Themes for this book:

 
  • Twins
  • Family Relationships
  • Sibling Competition
 
  • Basketball
  • Math Competitions
  • Valuing Different Strengths
  • Identity

Discussion Questions for this book:

The best discussion questions, of course, are generated by and contemplated by readers. These questions are designed to avoid major spoilers about the book, and to provide a starting point for teachers, parents, and student reading groups.


**Questions coming soon**

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