Akim Aliu: Dreamer

by Akim Aliu, Karen De La Vega (Illustrator), Marcus Williams (Illustrator)

This honest, engrossing graphic memoir tells the story of professional athlete and activist Akim Aliu's incredible life as a hockey prodigy in Canada. Akim Aliu ― also known as “Dreamer” ― is a Ukrainian-Nigerian-Canadian professional hockey player whose career took him all around the world and who experienced systemic racism at every turn. Dreamer tells Akim's incredible story, from being the only Black child in his Ukrainian community, to his family struggling to make ends meet while living in Toronto, to confronting the racist violence he often experienced both on and off the ice. This is a gut-wrenching and riveting graphic novel memoir that reminds us to never stop dreaming, and is sure to inspire young readers everywhere. "With honesty and courage, Akim Aliu's Dreamer will inspire readers of all ages to move confidently in the direction of their future." - Colin Kaepernick

Genres: Graphic Novels, Sports, Memoir, Middle Grade, Nonfiction, Comics, Graphic Novels Comics

128 pages, Paperback

Published February 7, 2023

Reviews

[TheNextGenLibrarian · Rating 5 out of 5]

An honest portrayal of systemic racism in the world of hockey as told by @dreamer_aliu78 in this graphic novel memoir.
🏒
Akim Aliu was raised as a Black child in Ukraine where is white mother lived. His Nigerian father had to go back to his home to finish school and work, leaving his young children and wife behind. Eventually the family moves to Canada where Akim falls in love with hockey. Despite the price his parents finally relent and let him play. Akim has major skills that move him up through the ranks quickly, eventually being drafted in the second round to the Chicago Blackhawks, but his entire career he is hazed, cursed at and encounters racism in all forms. Akim and six other athletes form the creation of the Hockey Diversity Alliance in 2020. This story shows us to never stop dreaming.
⛸️
Wow! What a powerful and moving MG graphic novel by @graphixbooks that I can’t wait to share with students. Thank you for sharing your story with the world. I learned so much by reading it and believe we still have much work to do in professional sports so that everyone knows racism has no place there or anywhere.

CW: racism, hazing, blood, hospitalization, bullying, violence

[Janet Hutchinson · Rating 5 out of 5]

It took me a while to realize that this is a true story, a graphic memoir of growing up black in a white hockey world. We think that hockey is for everyone - but really, hockey is for white, well-off young men. The world is changing, and I applaud Akim Aliu for his bravery, dedication, and dreams to have hockey become a more inclusive sport.

[Rosa · Rating 4 out of 5]

Rounding up to 4. I’m confused why his parents would continue to allow him to face this sort of racism. Why couldn’t they find community for this child?

[Alex (Pucksandpaperbacks)]

CW: racial slurs & swear words (on page, but are scribbled out), racism, hazing, racial microagressions, violence and blood (on-page), colorism, and emotional abuse

This was incredible. It's a short, fast-paced yet impactful read about NHL player, Akim Aliu and his life leading up to creating the Hockey Diversity Alliance. It feels like this book was written to promote the HDA which is good but I do wish it had a little more joyful moments amist the trauma Aliu went through. I really enjoyed how his story didn't shy away from the truth and exposed the racist players and coaches, hazing, and the racism he experienced in the league from childhood to the age of 20-years-old. This book will piss you off but in the right way. The way the NHL and any pro hockey league since the dawn of time has excused their racist players and coaches while shunning the players that speak out, Aliu exposes that here. I didn't know Aliu much prior to reading this and knowing his involvement in the HDA but now after reading "Dreamer", I know more about his life from living in Nigeria to Ukraine then Canada. I also like how they broke the fourth wall showing Akim as an adult following himself as a child. The book also mentioned facts about the NHL draft and living with a billet family. As a long time hockey fan who knows a lot about the ins and outs of the sport, I was surprised to learn some new facts like how the coaches (in this case, it was the assistant coach) interview the billet family before selecting and pairing them with the player AND they play in the OHL from 16-20 years old.


Favorite Quotes:
..The cold air on your face... like the feeling of facing reality for the first time. Like facing the fact that you were an outsider within a world or community you loved so dang much. So dang much that you had to fight against, and endure hate and bigotry - years of racism just to keep on following your dreams, just to be happy... or to make a better place for the next ones following in your footsteps...This is that story...about perseverance and following your dream against all odds.


"You know what I think is amusing? The NHL's title for their annual diversity campaign, "Hockey is for Everyone." Makes me crack up. Because right now hockey is not for everyone. I learned that when I was sixteen."

[Jennifer · Rating 4 out of 5]

I'm really glad this book exists. Aliu's story is incredibly compelling, and even though I'd already read a lot about the racism and hazing he faced and the creation of the HDA, Dreamer taught me a lot more about his upbringing and path into the hockey world. That said, I'm not sure this is 100% successful as a graphic novel. The art is expressive, but lacking in background detail, and the device of an older Akim breaking the fourth wall to talk to the reader from the page isn't always achieved clearly or effectively. I'm also not totally sure who the intended audience is. The voice shifts from a conversational style that feels like Aliu's voice to a very stripped-down, easy-to-read style that seems aimed as kids, but then it shifts again to big infodump sections that might be hard for children to understand. I found myself wishing the book had chosen one voice and stuck with it.

I waffled between three and four stars, and ultimately went with four because the content is so important, but I wish there'd been a stronger editorial hand at work.

[Read by Curtis · Rating 4 out of 5]

The arrival of this book is very timely with society's increased awareness about the need for diverse perspectives and the struggle of Ukrainian immigrants to Canada.

Akim Aliu was born in Nigeria, raised in Ukraine, and moved to Canada at age nine. He developed a fascination with hockey, and his parents struggled financially to pay for Akim to play. Miraculously, this immigrant boy with a late start on ice skates managed to advance from non-skater to the NHL draft in about eight years total. Talk about a dream!

Much like Welcome to St. Hell: My Trans Teen Adventure, this is a graphic novel memoir that features the author/narrator popping into scenes to break the fourth wall and offer retrospective anecdotes. Is this a trend now? If so, I'm here for it.

I think it's important that books like these are available to kids: its hockey theme will attract athletic kids (who are frequently non-readers), and the representation of a Black immigrant from Ukraine will connect with Black/immigrant readers and teach empathy to white nonimmigrant children. All that said, the story itself is disappointingly one note, but I think that this is likely an adult criticism that young readers will forgive (or perhaps miss completely). Definitely one to add to a class library for ages 13+.

[Kali Burks-Mosier · Rating 4 out of 5]

I do love a graphic memoir. Aliu has a relatable and engaging way of storytelling. In the novel, a young Aliu walks through his memories to tell his story. The narrator Aliu ages throughout sections of the story in different times than how his story self ages, which got a little confusing. With the time jumps, you really have to pay attention to the panels and plot. While presenting Aliu's life story, we are also introduced to the racism (systemic and social) found within hockey. Overall, this is what I call a "heavy light" read.

[Dolly · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book chronicles the journey that the author took from being born in Nigeria, to living in Russia, to moving to Canada and discovering his passion for ice hockey. It also highlights the racism, isolation, and trauma he experienced being one of the only black players. This is a very cautionary, but uplifting story that shows how more needs to be done to combat racism and support social justice initiatives.

[Lisad · Rating 4 out of 5]

An important story. Having been a hockey mom for many years, I love the direction of the HDA and the impact it is making already. However, I think the publisher missed the mark on the intended audience. If they had targeted young adults vs middle grade, they could have elevated the conversation, included more details of Aliu’s life and career, and it would have been more impactful.

The illustrations are impressive.

[Sheila Bracken · Rating 3 out of 5]

Anyone who watches hockey knows that not many people of color play the sport. Akim was one of the exceptions. Born in Nigeria to a black father and white Ukranian mother, Akim did not experience hockey until he moved with his family to Canada from Russia. His parents were looking for a place where their children could have the opportunity to succeed and prosper in life. Though success and prosperity did come, they were not attained easily. In fact, Akim’s road was fraught with pain and suffering first from bullying because he did not speak English, and then taunting and physical abuse due to the color of his skin. His story is a true testament to the fact that some people are made to stand up to adversity while others around them crumble. They live out their dreams and then help others set and achieve goals of their own.
I was saddened to hear of the abuses, some of the worst were inflicted by his teammates and coaches. Even those who did not participate directly in the physical or verbal attacks are guilty of being bystanders, which is just as bad. Akim has found new ways to fight back. Now he helps young people who might not otherwise be able to participate in hockey get what they need be it lessons or gear. He also works to make sure the kids of today won’t have to face the abuses he did by holding those in positions of power accountable for their words and actions. If he gets his way, discrimination based on race will no longer be tolerated in the sport of hockey.
A new craft move I noticed in this graphic memoir is the blurring out of profanity and racial slurs. I’ve seen strikethroughs and redacting, but the blurring allows the writer the shock value without being overly offensive. 3

[Jamie O’Keith · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is a refreshing and thrilling ride into the journey of Akim, the dreamer. The way this book is written, you feel like you’re sitting with the main character as he tells you his story and experiencing it with him. Well fleshed out characters and backstories that share many touching, inspiring and uplifting moments from his family members and friends. Even seeing the main character go through so many challenges throughout his adolescence to his adult years, it shows what can be accomplished with determination, hope and being surrounded by love and positivity through how negative and hurtful the world can be. This story will leave you inspired. Some moments made me feel upset, or concerned as I should be in certain events that occurred, but also relieved in other moments because of how well the story was written. This ties in on how well it was illustrated.


The illustrations by Karen De La Vega are beautifully done. It is one of its many strengths as it sets the tone in the different stages of the characters life and to pull you into the emotions the characters are feeling and sympathize or feel excited for or with them. Some of the physical moments in the story had me drop my jaws.

The color choices and the scenery truly sets the tone from page to page. The careful details of each character’s look, fashion in different time eras, hair styles, and stances helps tell the story clearly and beautifully. Every moment of action in Dreamer is engaging, like watching a live sports event.

Another thing about this story is its transparency about life. You learn that things will not always go as planned or how you would want it, but the lessons through it all are well worth it and it can help elevate your life based on how you respond to those changes.

To break it down even further from the message that I have gotten out of it, Dreamer is about choices. The choices you make affect you and those around you. As a parent, you want the best for your kids and support their dreams and you will never know how far that love and support will take them. The choice of sacrifice can bring even greater results. The choice to dream and pursue your dream can change your whole life and there is so much that comes with the territory that will bring joy, doubt, fear, success, controversy and various other kinds of emotions and challenges. Choosing to fight through it all, you learn your dream is bigger than you. Life is a gift, you are a gift to share in some capacity. Let your choices be the reason your life is changed for the better and possibly for others as well.

Dreamer is worth multiple reads and can start many great discussions in classrooms, podcasts and homes based on the subjects in this story. It shows how to turn lemons into delicious, sweet, ice cold lemonade. Finding your voice and showing what being a great human is all about. I loved it! This is a 5 out of 5 rating for me. I hope you take the time to buy this book for yourself and gift someone with it as well.

[Amanda · Rating 3 out of 5]

*read for the summer reading committee*

I'm not a sports gal by any means, but I appreciated learning about Aliu's experience of racism in the NHL. This is a very short graphic memoir and the art is very comic book-esque. It kind of hits you over the head with its messages, and is definitely geared towards younger readers. I will be recommending this for summer reading, as I think all the sports students who don't like to read can at least read this.

[Klaudia Janek · Rating 5 out of 5]

Summary:"Dreamer" is a poignant graphic memoir by Akim Aliu that offers an honest portrayal of systemic racism within the world of hockey. Raised in Ukraine by a white mother and a Nigerian father, Akim experiences the challenges of cultural identity and racial discrimination from an early age. When he moved to Nigeria, he also faced discrimination along with his mother. His first language is Russian. Akim's parents decide that the best opportunity for their two children will be in Canada. There Akim discovers his passion for hockey, but his journey is marred by hazing, racism, and bullying throughout his career. Despite these obstacles, Akim's talent leads him to be drafted by the Chicago Blackhawks, and he eventually co-founds the Hockey Diversity Alliance in 2020. This graphic novel is not only a personal narrative but also a call to action, urging readers to acknowledge and combat racism in sports and society. The book effectively exposes the harsh realities of the hockey world and the difficulty of racially mixed marriages both in the Ukraine and in Nigeria. The artwork is expressive, sporty and the narrative voice shifts a few times. So, it has some literary and artistic elements to analyze.
Straight Talk for Librarians: This book is an essential read for ages 13 and up, providing valuable insights into the experiences of Black athletes and the ongoing need for diversity and inclusion in sports. The graphic novel's engaging visual storytelling can attract reluctant readers, making it an excellent addition to book clubs or reading circles. A guided reading session could analyze themes of racism, resilience, and the importance of representation, encouraging students to share their thoughts and experiences related to these issues. Additionally, the book can be paired with social studies lessons on immigration, cultural identity, and the history of sports in Canada. Activities could include research projects on the Hockey Diversity Alliance and its impact on the sport, as well as creative writing assignments where students reflect on their own dreams and challenges. After I finished reading the book, I had to look up the news stories about the people mentioned to see a more detailed account of how things went down. The moments of joy are found in the friends and families that took Akim in while he was playing travel hockey and lifted him up. The love of Aliu's parents and brother really stand out. The brutality that Steve Downie and Coach Bill Peters unleashed on Akim really calls them out for what they did to a fellow human being. There is partial justice in getting this story out into the world. But also sadness for a hockey career cut short because of the abuse of power by a few people at the top of an organization. This book is also particularly timely because of the conflict in Ukraine. This story will show a bit of history as to what it was like to live there in the 1980s. This book will keep you thinking long after you finish reading it. Powerful and highly recommended for any middle/high school library.

https://libresbooksmi.blogspot.com/20...

[Tiffany · Rating 5 out of 5]

Add me on BookTok here: https://www.tiktok.com/@blissandbooks

Book provided by publisher in exchange for an honest review

DREAMER is a graphic novel memoir by Akim Aliu a Black man who pursued hockey as a career. Aliu’s story begins with his parent’s meeting and falling in love in Ukraine. As an interracial couple, they faced racism and bigotry from the community and even from Aliu’s maternal grandfather. After emigrating to Canada, Aliu falls in love with hockey but when he begins to play faces racism from the most unlikely places- his teammates.

Despite Aliu’s hard work ethic and skill playing hockey, that didn’t matter to the sociopaths he came across like a former player who knocked out his teeth with a hockey stick or a head coach in the NHL that repeatedly used the n-word towards him. Aliu perseveres but ultimately speaks out about his experiences in Canada shined a bright light on the disgusting way people of color are treated in the league.

One fascinating aspect of DREAMER is the story of Aliu’s parents which would be an excellent stand-alone book in itself! Aliu is the son of a Ukrainian woman and an African man, who chose to be together despite the bigotry they experienced even before they were married. Aliu notes that even his maternal grandfather refused to acknowledge his brother Edward until the baby was placed on his lap and he had that familial connection to his grandson that he couldn’t ignore.

DREAMER is an enthralling memoir, one that looks at both the highs and lows of playing hockey as a person of color. Aliu is unflinching in describing the racism he experienced even calling out two former NHL people, a coach and a player for using the most disgusting terms toward him. It’s important to bear witness to his story as there are still Black players in the NHL that face these types of ignorance every game whether it be fellow players or fans.

One interesting thing to mention is the racism that Aliu experiences is consistent no matter what country he lives or plays in showing that the prevalence of bigotry isn’t solely in the United States. Most countries have adopted bigotry towards Black people despite not participating in the slave trade.

The art is well done in DREAMER showing the progression of Aliu through his childhood to adulthood with consistent coloring. I did like that any curse words or the n-word is shown scratched out but readers will get the gist that whatever words hurled toward Aliu are hurtful.

DREAMER is an important novel that educates and inspires and I’m excited to see what Kaepernick Publishing and Scholastic release next! DREAMER releases in February 2023!

[theliterateleprechaun · Rating 4 out of 5]

🏒Middle grade
🏒Graphic Novel
🏒Memoir
🏒Non-fiction
🏒Black voices, Black History Reads

I read this graphic novel with my hockey-crazed nephew. He loved it for the focus on hockey and that it was a graphic novel at his reading level. I loved it for the ability to develop empathy, the focus on ‘choices’ and the awareness it created surrounding systemic racism.

Note: All racial slurs and swearing are scribbled out on the page, but it does cover racism, hazing, violence and emotional abuse.

In short: it’s about growing up Black in the world of hockey

Born in Nigeria to a black father and a white Ukrainian mother, Akim was aware he was different from an early age. When his family moved from Ukraine to Toronto, Canada he was no longer the only Black kid in the neighbourhood, but he still felt like he didn’t belong and he still faced racism. When his family supported his dreams to play ice hockey, his life took on a different trajectory, but it was a long haul to become noticed for something other than his skin colour.

Children will read about a Ukrainian-Nigerian-Canadian hockey player who was drafted and played in the NHL, played hockey around the world, yet still faced racism. It didn’t matter what age he was or where he travelled to, it was part of Akim’s experience. The worst part - most of it came from his coaches and team members!

Akim’s energy as an adult was channelled into making sure his experience isn’t one other Blacks experience. After his NHL career, he began as an activist and is now the founder of The Time To Dream Foundation and the chairman and co-founder of the Hockey Diversity Alliance. I love that he’s helping others reach their full potential in a relatively supportive environment. He continues to eradicate racism and intolerance in youth sports.

I think it’s important for young kids to read about perseverance and determination while not shielding them from the reality some their age experience in confronting racism. For any young child on a sports team, this book encourages connection and working together. For any young child, regardless of athletic ability, this book opens up discussions about safe learning environments, inclusion and acceptance.

I enjoyed this gut-wrenching and compelling read. It led to many discussions this week and I’ve seen my nephew finish it, pick it up and re-read it. For a reluctant reader, this is amazing.

[Thomas (ReadWithThomas) · Rating 4 out of 5]

"𝑻𝒉𝒊𝒔 𝒊𝒔 𝒕𝒉𝒂𝒕 𝒔𝒕𝒐𝒓𝒚 𝒂𝒃𝒐𝒖𝒕 𝒑𝒆𝒓𝒔𝒆𝒗𝒆𝒓𝒂𝒏𝒄𝒆 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝒇𝒐𝒍𝒍𝒐𝒘𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒚𝒐𝒖𝒓 𝒅𝒓𝒆𝒂𝒎 𝒂𝒈𝒂𝒊𝒏𝒔𝒕 𝒂𝒍𝒍 𝒐𝒅𝒅𝒔..."

I'm trying to grow my appreciation for graphic novels, and when I heard that Akim Aliu had written a memoir in this form, I couldn't wait to read it.

Aliu and co-writer Greg Anderson Eliyseé write in such an open honest way about Aliu's experiences growing up and playing hockey; I appreciated that they didn't shy away from the harsher realities, even when writing for middle schoolers and young people. Akim's experience of not having anyone, not a coach not another teammate, stand up for him when someone shouted the N word was shocking; it serves as a good reminder for students reading it to stand up and speak out, especially when they hear language that is unsafe. I loved the storytelling device of having Akim talking directly to the reader, by breaking the fourth wall; it also kept you on your toes as you read since it bounces between the past, the closer present and the present day. The story really highlights the work we have to do systematically in sports to present a space that is truly welcoming for all; I had no idea the Hockey Diversity Alliance existed until the end of this book! Akim also emphasizes the importance of finding a network of support, which I think is also a really important message for everyone, especially in a time where we are longing for connection.

One of my students read Dreamer as soon as it arrived, and he said "this was a really good book. Karen de la Vega's illustrations are really well done. Akim dreams big and confronts racism while never letting it stop him. I love hockey and this book shows me the role I can have on my team to make sure everyone feels supported and we can truly be a connected team."

Dreamer is a story of perseverance, confronting racism, and determination. It makes for a powerful story to read at any age and will have you reflecting long after the last page. Thank you to Scholastic Canada for our classroom gifted copy!

[Summer · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5 Stars. This probably should have started with chapter two, chapter one is basically fragments/teasers of what’s to come in Akim Aliu’s story, so kind of unnecessary and potentially confusing.

Chapter two onward offers much more clarity and for the most part unfolds chronologically.

I was most engaged with the first half of this graphic novel, it was really interesting to learn about Akim’s parents, his grandfather, how race affected their interracial family as they lived in Europe, Africa, and Canada. I also liked that once in awhile the fourth wall is broken adding a bit of personality and occasional humor to a story that’s otherwise centered on serious subject matter.

The hockey portion was a little too familiar for me as it covered precisely the same ground as Aliu’s essay, various interviews, documentary appearances, etc. I guess I was hoping that in addition to those pivotal moments this would expand a bit more on his life in and out of hockey, maybe dig more into the day to day of continuing in a sport that wasn’t welcoming, more on what kept him going, maybe see a few more moments of the joy he hopefully experienced in the game, and show more of phasing out of being a player and into advocacy, how emotionally tricky that transition may have been for him, instead this pretty much delivered the same information/moments already discussed in other mediums, just this one has illustrations.

I always think of a book as a vehicle to delve deeper than an article or a short television interview is able to go, so it was slightly disappointing that this didn’t do that quite as often as maybe it could have, but this would still be a good place to start for those who are less aware of Akim Aliu’s story and to gain a better understanding of the challenges facing diverse athletes in a sport that proclaims to be “for everyone” but sadly continues to fall short of that motto.

[Pam Withers · Rating 4 out of 5]

To young ice-hockey fans, especially those of color, Akim Aliu became a role model when he was drafted into the National Hockey League as a teenager and played for the Calgary Flames. Born of a Nigerian father and Ukrainian mother, and moving to Canada as a youngster who spoke not a word of English, he suffered much discrimination in life. (When he was born, his mother’s father declared, “I’m not touching a black baby” – although he later relented and became a beloved grandfather.)

This graphic novel is Akim’s first-person story, about the discrimination, violence, hazing and abuse he faced both on and off the ice, for most of his life. It’s about how fellow players failed to stand up to the ones who bullied him, and how coaches and officials turned a blind eye or worse. It’s also about his parents’ unwavering support, and the occasional person who befriended or supported him.

The graphics are highly professional (and don’t shy away from the gushing blood in fights), especially in depicting teammates’ shying away from getting involved when he was being harassed. But sometimes the novel feels like it was written less for middle-graders than as a love letter to his parents, an angry fist shaking at hockey brass who failed him – and adults who might donate money to his Hockey Diversity Alliance. Much of the latter part of the book is about his adult activism.

Even so, preteens who are immigrants or racialized will relate to his difficult ride, and hopefully others will become more empathetic and inclined to get involved when a fellow student suffers discrimination. It certainly contributes to the lack of books on immigrants, blacks, racism and harassment in sports.

This review also appears at https://yadudebooks.ca/

[ExLibrisMrHunt _ Christopher Hunt · Rating 5 out of 5]

I spent big chunks of my life playing hockey—on ice from approx age 10-12, then 15-18, plus gazillions of street hockey hours.
Since then,haven’t paid the sport much attention.

I’ve spent more time the last two days reading about hockey than I ever would have expected…

Why?

I’d heard about Dreamer, by @Dreamer_Aliu78, had it on my future orders list (knew it would be a good fit for a bunch of kids), then bought it ASAP as a teacher asked about it.

It’s a moving, engaging, fast-paced read.

And it’s unflinching in its exposure of systemic racism and the impacts of that racism on a young person that just wants to play the (almost exclusively white) sport that they love so much.

It may feel a bit “gritty” for the Gr 4/5 audience at my site, but moving toward antiracism is always going to be uncomfortable.

It addresses and the impacts of that racism on a young person that just wants to play the (almost exclusively white) sport that they love so much.

It may feel a bit “gritty” for the Gr 4/5 audience at my site, but moving toward antiracism is always going to be uncomfortable.

It addresses many other interrelated negative associations that hockey (and other sports cultures) have just started to address recently: hazing, “joking” that isn’t joking, toxic masculinity, bystander complicity, the issue of teens needing to leave home in order to succeed in elite sports.

At the same time, if you’ve played hockey and love the game, there is a lot of content about the why of it, the feel of it, the connections, and the dream that will appeal.

And, if you love the game and learn of the flaws in the culture, maybe you’ll stand up and stop them.

[Tamara · Rating 3 out of 5]

I know absolutely nothing about hockey, so this graphic novel memoir was informative about the game and also about the player who wrote it, Akim Aliu. He and his family have dealt with racism since before Akim was alive--his Nigerian father met his Ukrainian mother while his father was on the equivalent of a student visa in the Ukraine. The family had to move several places because Ukraine and Nigeria were just too hostile towards mixed race children and, finally, they settled in Canada. Which also had its flaws and racism, as Akim lets the reader know through his experiences as a young hockey player. He and others finally spoke out against the cruelty that they faced on a professional level and now they have created a group that actively tries to introduce hockey to communities of color and try to help break through the barriers that racism provides.

I did learn quite a bit about hockey through this novel. The basics of the game were explained to where even a novice like myself would understand. The graphic novel did bounce around in a timeline that sometimes made it confusing. There for a minute, I didn't realize that Akim's older self was "in" the panel with his younger self. I thought it was another brother that wasn't really talked about? So I took off some stars for that and the timeline shifts.

[Niki · Rating 3 out of 5]

A "concerned parent" brought Dreamer to our attention because of the "use" of the offensive n word in the text of this graphic novel. (While it is obvious to the reader what the intended word is, the word itself is not visible. The starting and ending letter are there and the rest is scratched out, making it unreadable. There are also speech bubbles where the offensive text not included and an erratic, long squiggly line is used.) On glance, I said I bet that is exactly the point... and I was right.

Dreamer is Akim Aliu's experiences with overt and systemic racism in hockey at a junior level and at a professional level. Making it clear how overt and how offensive the language used was a very powerful choice in the graphic memoir and I believe that it was the right one. I think this is an important book to have in our school library.

That said, I also don't feel it was particularly well-written. There were jumps in the storyline that weren't integrated well, some were flashbacks with no visual indication of the shifting timeline and some were just abrupt changes in attitude that were left unexplained or dramatic statements that were unsubstantiated.

Overall, Dreamer is a great YA graphic novel to showcase for systemic racism and being an agent of change and standing up for what is right, I just wish it was better written. 3+ stars

[Jaclyn Hillis]

“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.

———

CW: racism, racial slurs, xenophobia, violence, hazing

[Diana of Shelved by Strand · Rating 4 out of 5]

This graphic memoir is one that some of my 7th and 8th graders will be engrossed by if they are unaware, as I was, of the systemic racism experienced by some in hockey. Akium Aliu does not look like a stereotypical hockey player, being that his father is Nigerian, and wasn't born in Canada with a hockey stick in his hands like many of his teammates of his youth. He first grew up speaking Russian since his mother is Ukranian, but his parents decided to move to Russia so their boys could have opportunities they would never have in Russia with their mixed heritage. In Canada Aliu was an outsider, mocked for being a Russian-speaking black boy. Unfortunately, many of his hockey teammates weren't any more hospitable once he developed an incredible talent for the game. As Aliu rose through the ranks, he received more than the typical rookie hazing, but unlike the typical rookie, he stood up for himself. This is not a feel-good sports biography, but Aliu's story is an important one.

Classroom library considerations: The n-word and several other words are referenced, though they are always blotted out after the first letter. There is also depiction of several violent hockey fights, and a hazing incident shows male bodies almost entirely nude.

[Meg GlitteryOtters · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5 stars. Art and layout are a 4.5 and the general story would be a 4 if it was better organized and more was explained/summarized as I had a little trouble following some aspects and I already know his story, so i would rate the story as more like a 2.5, maybe a 3. It feels like it was written as a longer story and lost some clarity in the multiple cuts made in editing before finalizing the text. Also, there were errors that shouldn’t have made the final cut and should have been caught which really took me out of the story (for example, he played youth hockey in the Toronto area and was drafted into the OHL by, as the text says, “Windsor Spitfires of Toronto which was four hours drive away”…Windsor Spitfires are in Windsor, Ontario, which is far from Toronto. Obviously they meant Windsor, *Ontario*.).

Worth a read if you like hockey, graphic novels and diversity but I’d suggest familiarizing yourself with his story first or you might get a little confused or lost and it’s a story well worth knowing.

[Matt Glaviano · Rating 2 out of 5]

2.5

The first chapter is dreadful. It manages to be disjointed, moralistic, confusing, and boring all at once.

It gets better though. This book worked best for me when discussing Aliu's family and his path to Canada. As awkward as it was at times, this is where the older Aliu talking to his younger self and breaking the fourth wall bit works best.

The last quarter of the book gets out of showing and into the weeds of telling; you can see it happen as the speech bubbles get too long. There's a part where it literally just reiterates a mission statement. The end is a sketched narrative that would have benefited from the pictures doing more of the story telling work.

Pictures carrying the story is something that rarely happens here. The panels are disjointed, the hockey scenes disappointingly static. I like that Aliu doesn't pull any punches when addressing racism in the NHL (and in the hockey world as a whole). And I'd read endless hockey graphic novels.

I just wish this were a better graphic memoir - the execution and finish just aren't there.

[Megan · Rating 4 out of 5]

I’m finding that graphic novels can be a great way to consume nonfiction texts!

Dreamer is a graphic memoir of the life of Akim Aliu a professional hockey player. It tells the story of his multiethnic family, their immigration to Canada and his developing love of hockey. It also tells of the racism and violence he experienced both on and off the ice.

This book is powerful. I was fascinated by his parents' story- his mom being Ukrainian and his dad Nigerian- and their lives in both Nigeria and Russia. I was also brokenhearted over the persistent discrimination Akim experienced during his hockey career. From youth leagues through his professional experience, Akim was mistreated by coaches, teammates and fans intent on trying to dehumanize him for his race rather than honor him for his personhood and accomplishments. I’m not the biggest hockey fan but even I found this book to be incredibly engaging.

I think this is a great read for 8th grade and up and for any adult looking for a compelling and engaging read.

[Phobean · Rating 4 out of 5]

More a 3.5 but rounding to 4 for the message

Whew! Ok, that was not an easy read. Cute, charming, and clear illustrations. —a little uneven but not enough to affect the story (a sudden hairstyle change near the end of the book confused me). I’m not sure I totally understood all that was going on hockey details-wise; a lot of incredibly unfair, harsh, violent treatment from fellow players and industry leaders alike. Also the use of breaking the fourth wall was surprising and not always effective, as well there was a “color blind” moment with a set of ally adults that seemed in stark contrast with the rest of the story.

I appreciated the author’s optimism and positivity. But WOW, there’s a long, long long, way to go on this one: the hazing, the racism, the cruelty, and largely unrepentant league. Not sure hockey is worth all that.

Finally, as a US-raised Black woman, I’m always deeply curious about people from the diaspora raised overseas. I think this will pull readers towards this graphic novel as well.

[Morgan · Rating 5 out of 5]

AKIM ALIU: DREAMER is a graphic memoir of Aliu's experiences as a Black, Ukrainian immigrant who dreams of being a hockey player. Aliu is from a family of dreamers, people who saw the possibilities outside of the norm and made them realities.

His Nigerian father and Ukrainian mother defied social norms as they fell in love and married. They live in communities where they were treated as an outside, an other. All along still dreaming of better lives for their sons, and immigrating to Canada to make that a reality. It's no surprise that Aliu doesn't see limits on his dreams. Despite only seeing white hockey players, he knows it is the sport for him.

Aliu faces racism, violence and discrimination as he moves up the ranks in competitive hockey. Aliu's story shows the importance of creating inclusive spaces in all areas of life. Middle grade readers will be inspired by Aliu's resilience and dedication.

[Libby · Rating 5 out of 5]

With the help of co-author Greg Anderson Elysee and illustrator Karen de la Vega, Akim Aliu retells the story of his childhood, going back to when his white Ukranian mother and black Nigerian father fell in love in Ukraine. After the family immigrates to Canada, Aliu falls in love with hockey and perseveres through discrimination and overt racism to eventually play in the NHL, where he eventually speaks out publicly about his experiences. What I really appreciated was through it all, he stayed close to his family, who sacrificed to see him reach a goal that seemed unattainable. Because of some language (blacked out but obvious) and some violent incidents, although the publisher says this if for 8-12 year olds, I think it's aimed more for ages 10+. Hockey fans will love this heartfelt and needed story.

[Jennifer · Rating 5 out of 5]

This searing yet hopeful memoir is a must read for athletes, coaches, and parents, regardless of their sport of choice. Akim Aliu was an interracial immigrant to Canada who became a hockey prodigy. As he worked his way up to the NHL, he encountered brutal racism and hazing, which are presented starkly and unflinchingly throughout the book. Throughout the book, Aliu recounts his experiences without glossing over the horrific details. They are essential to his goals of education, accountability, and transforming the culture of hockey.

CONTENT NOTES: Violent attacks are vividly drawn. Although slurs and profanity are blacked out, it is obvious what is being said. The hazing incident involves forcing the new players to strip naked, which is clearly but carefully drawn so no genitalia are visible.