A review by jackelz
Dreamer by Akim Aliu, Greg Anderson Elysée

“In Canada, skating is the language everyone can speak. You do a crossover, or score a goal, and all of a sudden you’re approachable. You’re one of them. I felt that. And it felt nice.”

Akim Aliu is a Ukrainian-Nigerian-Canadian professional hockey player who experienced systemic racism at every turn. From being the only Black child in his Ukrainian community, to his family struggling to make ends meet while living in Toronto, this book highlights his adolescent years through his hockey career. 

I saw someone else’s review that said, “I’m not sure my students will know who this is,” and all I could think was, “isn’t that the point?” I didn’t know who Akim Aliu was either, but I’m a sucker for memoirs and athletics, so it was an automatic purchase for me. This graphic novel is targeted at younger readers, and it’s so important for kids to see themselves reflected in the books they read. His message is an important one, too. 

Secondary to Akim’s story, I loved his parents love story so much. Their story would make a fantastic romance novel, just saying. As a family, they faced so much adversity, and it was truly inspiring to see them come out on top. 

I love that he’s helping make hockey more inclusive for all.