The Swag Is in the Socks

Author Kelly J. Baptist

Grades 6-8 Ages 8-12

Xavier Moon is stepping out of the shadows when his great-uncle gives him some outlandish socks and some even stranger requests. A story about heart, confidence, and standing on your own two feet that is perfect for fans of The Season of Styx Malone and The Parker Inheritance.

"An excellent read-alike to Jacqueline Woodson’s Harbor Me or Janae Marks’ From the Desk of Zoe Washington.–Booklist, Starred Review
 
"A warm but authentic picture of a middle schooler figuring out who he is and who he wants to be." –The Bulletin
 
Xavier Moon is not one to steal the show. He’s perfectly content to play video games and sit at his bedroom window watching the neighborhood talk outside.
 
But for Xavier’s twelfth birthday, he receives a pair of funky socks and a challenge from his great-uncle, Frankie Bell, saying it’s time to swag out and speak up. First on the list: get into the legendary Scepter League. Xavier’s grandfather, great-uncle, and father were all invited to join the elite boys’ after-school club that admits only the most suave and confident young men. Xavier has never had the courage to apply before, but his wild socks are getting him some big attention, so maybe it’s time to come out of the shadows and follow in his family's footsteps. Or maybe Xavier will march down a new path altogether.

Available Formats

Trade Paperback 9780593380895
eBook 9780593380888
Unabridged Audiobook Download 9780593502341

State Awards

New York

2022, NYPL Vibrant Voices: New Books From Authors of Color, Selection

Texas

2023, Texas Lone Star Reading List, Selection

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