Reviews

Dreamer by Akim Aliu, Greg Anderson Elysée

Only show reviews with written explanations

thebookguru's review

inspiring sad medium-paced

3.5

The story itself is good and interesting but I didn’t like the interruptions from Adult Akim as it was confusing at times and they jumped through time pretty quickly.

However his story is really inspiring and I love that he finally spoke out about the racism he experienced and started the Hockey Diversity Alliance.

TW: The racism is very explicit

Overall, it is a good story and memoir however it was confusing at times with the additions from Older Akim and time skips.

I think students will enjoy this as they will learn about ice hockey and how deeply ingrained systemic racism is.

Content Warnings

bibliobrandie's review

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5.0

This graphic memoir chronicles Akim Aliu’s challenging journey to achieve his dream of playing professional hockey. Hockey is a very white sport and players of color experience racism from the pro level all the way down to youth leagues. There are multiple instances of blood and violence in the pages that may be upsetting for some readers but derogatory terms and profanity are mostly scratched out. Aliu never lost his love for the sport and cofounded the Hockey Diversity Alliance, a non-profit organization designed to introduce hockey to Indigenous and other young players of color. This a powerful story will encourage youth to fight for their dreams.

kristin54's review against another edition

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emotional hopeful inspiring reflective sad medium-paced

5.0

florian_'s review against another edition

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emotional informative reflective fast-paced

4.25

pamjohnson01's review

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challenging informative reflective fast-paced

4.0

Graphic memoir that shares the struggles Akim Aliu experienced in his drive to become a hokey player in the NHL. Shows hazing, bullying, attacks, blood and abuse. Best for MG or older readers.