More than Just a Game
The Black Origins of Basketball
by Madison Moore
Albert Whitman & Company 2021
Challenging read for K–3rd grade
Reading level 5.2 (5th grade) is above the ages 5–9 interest range
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Genre
Themes
- perseverance
- segregation and racial barriers
- community
- innovation
- teamwork
- social change
- cultural heritage
About this book
This informational picture book traces how Black athletes helped shape basketball during the early 20th century, when segregation kept them out of many gyms and leagues. Through community teams, church leagues, and HBCUs, the sport grew in skill and style, laying the groundwork for the game kids love today. Lyrical text and energetic art make complex history accessible for young readers, while celebrating resilience, creativity, and the joy of play. A great choice for sports fans and classrooms discussing history and social change.
Setting: United States, early 1900s to mid-20th century; segregated cities, community gyms, YMCAs, churches, and school leagues
Frequently Asked Questions
Is More than Just a Game right for my child?
It depends — here's what to consider for More than Just a Game. The reading level is AR 5.2, which is typical for 5th grade. The interest level is rated Lower Grades (K–3), meaning the themes and content are designed for ages 5–9 (K–3rd grade). Themes include perseverance, segregation and racial barriers, community.
How long does it take to read More than Just a Game?
At a typical 5th grade reading pace, More than Just a Game takes around 7m to finish. The book has 1,100 words. Slower or faster readers may vary significantly.
Does More than Just a Game have an AR quiz?
Yes — More than Just a Game has an AR quiz available, worth 0.5 points. Your child will need to take and pass the quiz through their school's Accelerated Reader program to earn credit. The quiz is typically 5–20 multiple choice questions about plot, characters, and setting.
What grade level is More than Just a Game?
More than Just a Game has an AR reading level of 5.2, which places it at a 5th grade reading difficulty. The interest level is rated Lower Grades (K–3) — this reflects the age-appropriateness of the content and themes, not just the reading difficulty. A strong younger reader may handle the words fine while the themes are aimed at an older audience, or vice versa.