We Are Big Time

A Little Maverick Graphic Novel Reading List Selection

★ “An uplifting graphic novel that celebrates female Muslim athletes and highlights how the teens’ faith, sport, and relationships intersect.” —Publishers Weekly, starred review

★ “A lighthearted slam dunk.” —Booklist, starred review

“An inspiring sports story that focuses on more than the score.” —Kirkus Reviews

“Zerrougui’s visual storytelling is highly readable and makes excellent use of varied panel sizes and placements to convey character, setting, and b-ball action alike.” —The Horn Book

“A focused and rewarding sports story that will leave readers cheering for the inspiring Peace Academy team, and a great recommendation for sports fans or new students worried about finding their place.” —School Library Journal

“Winning and brimming with hope, We Are Big Time is an utterly engaging graphic novel that reminds us there is more to basketball—and life—than the score.” —Samira Ahmed, New York Times bestselling author of Internment and Hollow Fires

“We Are Big Time is a slam dunk! Overflowing with humor and heart, Aliya’s inspiring journey with her all-hijab-wearing basketball team will have readers cheering for more.” —Minh Lê, Eisner-nominated author of Lift and Green Lantern: Legacy

“Don’t come in expecting a story of overcoming prejudice or hate; Hena deftly crafted this story from the girls’ perspectives to broaden readers’ perspective on what a diverse narrative can be. Safiya’s lines are fluid and dance on the page. A delight for the eyes and heart.” —Nidhi Chanani, author of Pashmina

“The perfect sports story: exciting, moving, and inspiring in every way!” —Christina Soontornvat, three-time Newbery Honoree