Dragon Hoops was such a great read! I enjoyed it far more than I thought I would and I learnt so much. Not only is it the story of Gene Luen Yang following the season of the varsity basketball team at the high school where he works, it’s also a history of basketball (including the racism and sexism that led to changes in the sport). Gene gives back story to the coach and players in the Bishop O’Dowd Dragons, which gives some really interesting insight in to basketball in China and the Sikh religion.

The art is fantastic, especially the action of the games, where the characters are moving through the court or flowing towards the hoop. The difference between the past and present is very clear with the difference in colours and tones. It also has the coolest cover that looks and feels like a basketball.

It’s aimed at teens and adults but it would be a great addition to an intermediate school, especially if you’ve got basketball fans. I highly recommend it!