Change the Game
What’s inside...
In this memoir, Colin Kaepernick shares his journey from a young boy growing up in Milwaukee to his time as a quarterback in the NFL, highlighting the challenges he faced along the way as a mixed-race child and his experiences with racism and injustice. Kaepernick also discusses his decision to kneel during the national anthem as a form of protest against police brutality and systemic oppression, and the backlash he faced as a result. The book is a powerful call to action for readers to stand up against injustice and fight for a more equitable society. 'Colin Change the Game' is an inspiring high school graphic novel memoir for readers 12 and up from celebrated athlete and activist Colin Kaepernick. High school star athlete Colin Kaepernick is at a crossroads in life. Heavily scouted by colleges and MLB as a baseball pitcher, he has a bright future ahead of him as a highly touted prospect. Everyone from his parents to his teachers and coaches are in agreement on his future. Colin feels differently. Colin isn’t excited about baseball. In the words of five-time all-star MLB player Adam Jones, “Baseball is a white man’s game.” Colin looks up to athletes like Allen talented, hyper-competitive, unapologetically Black, and dominating their sports while staying true to themselves. College football looks a lot more fun than sleeping on hotel room floors in the minor leagues of baseball. But Colin doesn't have a single offer to play football. Yet. This touching graphic novel explores the story of how a young change-maker learned to find himself and never compromise. How the right decision is very rarely the easy one, but taking the road less traveled can make all the difference in the world.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
10-13
Length
144 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What do you think is the most important message in 'Change the Game'?
How do you think the main character felt during their challenge? Have you ever felt the same way?
What would you have done differently if you were in the main character's shoes?
Can you think of a time when you helped change the game or situation? What happened?
How can we apply the lessons from the book to our everyday lives?
Tip: Role play these questions
Before starting the book, ask your child what they expect from a story titled 'Change the Game'. This sets a purpose for reading.
Pause at critical moments in the story to ask your child how they perceive the unfolding events and how they might feel in a similar situation.
After finishing the book, encourage your child to draw or act out their favorite scene. This helps reinforce their understanding and connection to the story.
Link themes from the book to real-life events or personal experiences that your child can relate to. It personalizes the lessons learned.
Ask your child to summarize the story in their own words. This not only checks comprehension but also enhances retention.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The importance of teamwork
Explanation: The story demonstrates how characters work together to solve problems and achieve common goals, showcasing that cooperation leads to success.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson in school projects or sports activities by collaborating with their peers to reach a common objective.
Example Lesson: Embracing diversity
Explanation: Characters from various backgrounds come together, teaching that diversity enriches experiences and solutions.
Real-World Application: Kids can be encouraged to be inclusive and learn from others who might look, speak, or think differently than they do.
Example Lesson: Resilience in the face of challenges
Explanation: The story's protagonist encounters obstacles but does not give up, illustrating resilience.
Real-World Application: This lesson is vital for children when they face academic or personal challenges; it teaches them persistence and determination.
Example Lesson: Creativity as a problem-solving tool
Explanation: The book shows characters using creative solutions to navigate their challenges, providing a fun and innovative way to tackle problems.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to think outside the box in their day-to-day dilemmas or while engaging in play.