Zayd Saleem, Chasing the Dream: Power Forward | On Point | Bounce Back

Written by Hena Khan
Illustrated by Sally Wern Comport
Published by Simon & Schuster Books For Young Readers

Zayd Saleem has serious hoop dreams. He’s going to be a basketball star. A legend. There are only a few small things in his way.

For starters, Zayd’s on the scrawny side and gets stomach aches when he’s nervous. He has to convince his coach that he has what it takes to join his best friend Adam on the elite Gold Team. His mom and dad want him to practice his violin way more than his jump shot. Plus, it doesn’t help that his older sister Zara is amazing at every sport she tries.

But Zayd has a lot going for him, too. His grandmother is willing to supply him with all the mango milkshakes he wants. His grandfather has a few tricks up the sleeve of his velour track suit. And his favorite uncle keeps Zayd laughing, even if it’s sometimes so hard he needs to pee. Zayd’s family, combined with his friends, teammates, and his own determination, means he’s got everything he needs to chase his dream. Will he reach it?