Becoming Muhammad Ali

This biographical novel explores the formative years of cultural icon Muhammad Ali before he achieved global fame as a champion boxer. Written in a combination of prose and verse, the narrative follows Cassius Clay growing up in Louisville, Kentucky, facing everyday struggles with school, racism, and neighborhood life. It details how the theft of his bicycle at age twelve sparked his introduction to amateur boxing and training in local gyms. The book depicts the relationships, determination, and pivotal moments that shaped his early journey up to age seventeen.

by James Patterson, Kwame Alexander

Bound to Stay Bound Books · First published 2020 · 310 pages