LONG SHOT

In this made-to-inspire autobiographical account, NBA All-Star Chris Paul recalls the difficulty he faced making it onto the school’s basketball team. He knew he was good, but he feared he was just too short to make the team. Chris gets sage advice and support from his grandfather, his parents and his brother, which inspires him to practice extra-hard in the days leading up tryouts. When the big day arrives, his family members are all there to cheer him on as he overcomes taunting to perform well, earning himself the last spot on the team. Some awkwardness of prose and narrative flow notwithstanding, this title has valuable lessons to teach both children and adults about the importance of persistence, perspective and family support to kids who are learning to set goals and risk failure to accomplish them. Morrison’s rich, vivid and dynamic illustrations portray the characters as realistic, likable people with plenty of personality. The volume ends with a note detailing Paul’s accomplishments in college basketball and in the NBA. (Picture book. 6-10)