Readers of Becoming Kareem appreciate Abdul-Jabbar's candid recounting of his life, his growth as an athlete, and his activism. The memoir is praised for its honesty and inspirational message. However, some feel it occasionally lacks depth in discussing complex issues. Overall, it is seen as an enlightening and motivational read.

A reader who would enjoy Becoming Kareem by Kareem Abdul-Jabbar is likely interested in sports memoirs, personal growth, and overcoming adversity. Fans of I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings by Maya Angelou or The Last Black Unicorn by Tiffany Haddish will find similar themes of resilience and profound life lessons.

Becoming Kareem: Growing Up On and Off the Court is a 2017 memoir by NBA star and activist Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, chronicling his youth from childhood to his early years in the NBA. He shares family stories, educational experiences, and his sports journey. It also discusses his name and religious change, his engagement with the civil rights movement, and his personal quest for identity and values. This book depicts racial discrimination and violence.

Inspirational / Informative / Contemplative / Emotional / Hopeful

**Kareem Abdul-Jabbar (The Author)**  
A former professional NBA player and author who shares his journey of growing up and coming of age as an athlete, Black American, Muslim, and activist.

**Ferdinand “Big Al” Alcindor**  
Abdul-Jabbar’s father, a transit police officer and amateur musician in New York City, characterized by his withdrawn nature and his impact on Abdul-Jabbar’s childhood.

**Cora Alcindor**  
The author’s mother who worked as a seamstress and connected with Abdul-Jabbar through shared interests, setting an example of pragmatism and emphasizing the importance of education.

**Coach Donahue**  
Abdul-Jabbar’s demanding high school basketball coach at Power Memorial, whose traditional coaching style and significant incident impacted their relationship.

**Dr. John Henrik Clarke**  
Abdul-Jabbar’s journalism teacher at the Youth Action Project in Harlem, who inspired Abdul-Jabbar’s interest in Black history and pride in his identity.

**Coach Wooden**  
Abdul-Jabbar’s college basketball coach at UCLA, noted for his positive and patient coaching style, and his influence on Abdul-Jabbar’s personal and athletic development.

Kareem Abdul-Jabbar

Middle grade

Autobiography / Memoir

Nonfiction

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Becoming Kareem: Growing Up On and Off the Court

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