Aliya’s move from Florida to Milwaukee isn’t just about new weather—it’s about finding her voice in a new community.
Hena Khan’s “We Are Big Time” blends sports, culture, and self-discovery. Protagonist Aliya Javaid, a Muslim teen from Florida, navigates a new Islamic school in Milwaukee and joins its underperforming girls’ basketball team. The story follows her journey from an uncertain newcomer to a confident co-captain, alongside teammates from diverse backgrounds (Pakistani, Ghanaian, Somali, Malaysian) and Coach Jess Martinez, a basketball expert learning about Muslim traditions. Inspired by the real Salam School team, the narrative balances humor and heart, showing how teamwork and resilience redefine success beyond the scoreboard.
This graphic novel is an engaging read. The visual storytelling provides critical context for vocabulary and plot twists. For example, scenes of the team praying during practice or celebrating cultural traditions use images to clarify cultural nuances without overwhelming text. The language is intentionally accessible: short sentences, natural dialogue, and minimal idioms reduce cognitive load. Complex terms (e.g., basketball strategies) are explained through action or context, making them graspable even for intermediate learners.
The team’s pushback against media stereotypes will resonate with students navigating identity and belonging. Educators can leverage its themes of perseverance and cultural pride to spark discussions about media literacy and community. For instance, Aliya’s family support and the team’s focus on “more than the score” align with lessons on goal-setting and empathy. “We Are Big Time” is founded in real events, adding authenticity and helping students connect fictional struggles to real-world achievements. It’s not just a story about basketball—it’s a playbook for confidence, collaboration, and reclaiming one’s narrative.
