Figurative Language
This type of figurative language compares two unlike things without using "like" or "as".
A metaphor.
At the beginning of the novel, Josh sees himself mostly as a ______.
A basketball player.
Who is Josh’s twin brother?
JB
Who is the family’s main emotional support and voice of reason?
Mom
One major theme topic of The Crossover is ______.
Family
Josh often compares basketball to life. This makes basketball a symbol for ______.
Choice, growth, or challenges in life.
What causes Josh to begin changing emotionally?
Dad’s health problems and family tension. Problems with JB getting a girlfriend, making Josh feel left out, alone, and jealous.
What event creates the most tension in the story?
Dad collapsed and lost his pulse.
How does Josh’s relationship with JB change over time?
From close → strained → restored.
What does the novel teach about dealing with change?
Change is unavoidable and helps us grow.
Why does the author use basketball metaphors instead of just explaining Josh’s feelings directly?
To make Josh’s emotions more vivid, relatable, and powerful.
How does Josh’s attitude toward basketball change by the end of the novel?
He still loves it, but values family and relationships more.
Why is Dad’s collapse considered a climax?
It raises the highest emotional stakes and changes everything.
What role does Dad play in Josh’s identity?
He is a role model, coach, and symbol of strength.
How does the novel show that strength isn’t just physical?
Through emotional growth and vulnerability.
How does figurative language change after Dad’s illness?
It becomes more serious, emotional, and reflective, showing Josh’s growth.
What is Josh’s biggest internal conflict?
Balancing basketball, emotions, and family responsibilities.
How does this event affect Josh and JB differently?
Josh becomes more reflective; JB pulls away before reconnecting.
Why does Josh struggle to communicate his emotions?
He uses basketball and poetry instead of direct words.
How does Josh learn what truly matters in life?
Through loss, fear, and reflection.
Choose one metaphor from the novel and explain what it reveals about Josh.
(Student explains meaning + emotion.)
Explain Josh’s personal “crossover” using evidence from the text.
Josh matures emotionally, learning empathy, responsibility, and perspective.
How would the story change if Dad had never gotten sick?
Josh may not mature or see life beyond basketball.
Which relationship most influences Josh’s growth—and why?
(Dad, JB, or Mom—with explanation.)
What message would you give someone your age based on this novel?
(Student-created response.)