Do you want to instill a love for sports in your children but don’t know where to start? One way to get them interested is by introducing them to some of the best sports books for kids. These books not only entertain, but they also teach valuable life lessons about teamwork, perseverance, and determination. In this blog, we’ll be highlighting the top kids sports books that your little ones are sure to love.
From stories about legendary athletes to tales about underdogs who overcome the odds, these books will inspire your kids and encourage them to get active. So grab a cup of coffee and get ready to discover some great reads for your young sports enthusiasts!
Popular Choices
When it comes to finding the best kids books about sports, there are plenty of popular choices available that will get your young one excited about reading and playing the game. One of the top-rated books is “The Crossover” by Kwame Alexander, which tells the story of two brothers who battle it out on the basketball court. This book is a great way to introduce your child to the game of basketball and show them how competition can bring people closer together.
Another great option is “Heat” by Mike Lupica, which follows a young Cuban-American boy who dreams of playing in the Major Leagues. This book not only teaches the value of hard work and determination but also highlights the importance of diversity in sports. Other fantastic choices include “Friday Night Lights” by H.
G. Bissinger and “The Boys In The Boat” by Daniel James Brown, both of which tell inspiring stories about perseverance and teamwork. No matter which book you choose, introducing your child to the world of sports through literature is a fantastic way to promote reading and a love for physical activity.
Mighty Maddie by Stuart J. Murphy
“Mighty Maddie by Stuart J. Murphy” is a popular choice among young readers who want to learn about teamwork and problem-solving. The book is designed to help children understand math concepts, but it also has a valuable lesson about the importance of working together.
Mighty Maddie is a fantastic character who faces challenges that require her to use her brains and brawn to overcome them. The book is beautifully illustrated, and the images help to draw the reader into the story. It’s a great book to read aloud to young children or for older children to read alone.
This picture book is a testament to the power of perseverance, determination, and teamwork. It shows how even the smallest member of a team can make a vital contribution to the success of any project. Overall, it is an excellent resource for parents and teachers who want to encourage young children to value collaboration and critical thinking.
So, if you’re looking for an engaging and educational read for your child, Mighty Maddie should be at the top of your list!
Soccer Star by Mina Javaherbin
In the world of children’s literature, “Soccer Star” by Mina Javaherbin is consistently a popular choice. This delightful tale follows a young boy named Paulo who dreams of becoming a soccer star. Based on the author’s own experiences growing up in Iran, the story beautifully captures the passion that Paulo and his friends have for their beloved sport.
What makes this book especially compelling is how it addresses the issue of poverty and lack of resources that many children face, without being overly heavy-handed or didactic. Instead, it emphasizes the power of community and teamwork, showing how even with challenges, anything is possible. Overall, “Soccer Star” is an inspiring and heartwarming read that will resonate with young soccer fans and anyone who knows the importance of chasing your dreams.
The Big Field by Mike Lupica
“The Big Field by Mike Lupica” is one of the most popular choices when it comes to sports literature for young adults. This thrilling novel revolves around the story of Hutch and his baseball team, who are experiencing a rough patch after a string of losses. However, with Hutch’s leadership skills and his team’s perseverance, they start to turn things around and aim for the championship title.
The book not only highlights the importance of teamwork and dedication but also delves into the struggles that young athletes face both on and off the field. It is a relatable read for those who are passionate about sports and serves as an excellent source of inspiration for children who dream of becoming athletes someday. Overall, “The Big Field” is a must-read for anyone looking for an engaging and motivating sports story.
Books for Specific Sports
Looking for books to spark your child’s interest in sports? There are plenty of great options out there that cover a variety of different activities. For young soccer fans, “Soccer Star” by Mina Javaherbin and Renato Alarcao is a great choice, while “Swimming with Sharks” by Heather Lang and Jordi Solano is perfect for young swimmers. If your child is interested in basketball, “Salt in His Shoes” by Deloris Jordan, Kadir Nelson and Roslyn M.
Jordan is a great book about the hard work and dedication needed to succeed. And for those who enjoy track and field, “Sprinter” by Mara Rockliff and Eddie Martinez is a thrilling tale of one boy’s journey to greatness. Each of these books uses engaging stories and colorful illustrations to bring the excitement of sports to life.
So whether your child is already a budding athlete or just looking to learn more about different activities, there’s sure to be a book out there that’s right for them.
Hoop Genius by John Coy (Basketball)
If you’re a basketball fan or player, then you might enjoy reading Hoop Genius by John Coy. This book captures the essence of basketball by sharing the inspiring stories of players from various backgrounds who have gone on to become legends in the sport. Coy’s writing style is engaging and provides a unique perspective on the game, encouraging readers to think about the cultural and social influences that have shaped the sport over the years.
The book features stunning illustrations to bring the stories to life and make it easy for readers, especially young basketball enthusiasts, to visualize the players’ moves and techniques. Hoop Genius is a must-read for anyone who loves the sport and wants to learn more about its history and evolution. Whether you’re a player, coach, or simply a fan, this book will leave you with a newfound appreciation for the game of basketball and its impact on society.
So why not pick up a copy and discover the genius of basketball for yourself?
The Girl Who Never Made Mistakes by Mark Pett & Gary Rubinstein (Gymnastics)
For young gymnasts, “The Girl Who Never Made Mistakes” by Mark Pett and Gary Rubinstein is a must-read. This charming book tells the story of a girl named Beatrice, who is famous for never making any mistakes in her gymnastics routines. However, one day, Beatrice has a slip-up and realizes that it’s okay to make mistakes.
The story is a wonderful reminder for young athletes that everyone makes mistakes and that it’s essential to learn from them. Additionally, the book shows the importance of having fun and not taking yourself too seriously and is a great way to encourage young gymnasts to enjoy their sport and not put too much pressure on themselves. Overall, “The Girl Who Never Made Mistakes” is an excellent book for gymnasts of all ages and a fantastic resource for parents and coaches looking to teach their children the importance of resilience and perseverance.
The Keeper by Tim Howard (Soccer)
If you’re a soccer fan, you might be interested in Tim Howard’s book “The Keeper.” This memoir tells the story of Howard’s life, both on and off the field, detailing his journey as a professional goalkeeper. Howard is best known for his record-breaking career with the US National Team, where he played in over 100 games and solidified his place as one of the best goalkeepers in the world.
In “The Keeper,” Howard talks about some of the challenges he faced throughout his career and how he overcame them, providing valuable insights for aspiring young players. Whether you’re a goalkeeper yourself or simply a fan of the sport, this book is definitely worth checking out. It’s a fascinating read that offers a unique perspective on the game of soccer, and it’s sure to inspire and motivate anyone who reads it.
So if you’re looking for a great book on soccer, “The Keeper” is definitely a must-read.
Inspiring Biographies
Kids these days need more than just academic knowledge. They also need to develop their physical and social skills, and what better way to do that than through playing sports? Reading inspiring biographies of successful athletes can also encourage children to pursue their passion and work hard towards their goals. There are plenty of kids books about sports that they can enjoy, like the popular “I am” series by Brad Meltzer, featuring biographies of sports icons such as Jackie Robinson, Jim Thorpe, and Babe Ruth.
These books not only highlight the athletes’ achievements but also delve into their personal struggles and triumphs, giving kids valuable life lessons and inspiration. In addition to the “I am” series, there are also other noteworthy books such as “Wilma Unlimited” by Kathleen Krull, which tells the story of how Wilma Rudolph overcame her physical disabilities and became an Olympic gold medalist. With these books, children can learn about the importance of perseverance, dedication, and teamwork, while also developing their love for reading and sports.
Who Was Muhammad Ali? by James Buckley Jr.
Muhammad Ali, also known as “The Greatest,” was one of the most iconic boxers in history. But he was much more than that. Born Cassius Clay in Louisville, Kentucky, Ali became known not only for his skill in the ring but also for his activism outside of it.
He spoke out against racism and the Vietnam War, often to the chagrin of the establishment. Despite facing persecution for his beliefs, he remained steadfast in his convictions and ultimately earned respect for his bravery and authenticity. Muhammad Ali’s incredible legacy serves as a shining example of how one person can make a difference in the world and inspire others to do the same.
Wilma Unlimited: How Wilma Rudolph Became the World’s Fastest Woman by Kathleen Krull
If you’re looking for an inspiring biography for young readers, look no further than Kathleen Krull’s “Wilma Unlimited: How Wilma Rudolph Became the World’s Fastest Woman.” This book tells the story of Wilma Rudolph, a young girl who overcame several obstacles to become a three-time gold medalist at the 1960 Olympics. Despite being born prematurely and suffering from polio as a child, Wilma refused to let her disabilities hold her back.
Through determination, hard work, and the support of her family and community, she became a champion sprinter and a symbol of hope and inspiration for people everywhere. This book is a great choice for parents and educators looking to teach children about the importance of perseverance, resilience, and believing in oneself. Wilma’s story serves as a reminder that with dedication and a positive attitude, anything is possible.
So why not pick up a copy of “Wilma Unlimited” today and share her incredible journey with the young readers in your life?
Educational Reads
When it comes to introducing children to the world of sports, there are many kids’ books about sports that can help build their interest in the subject. From timeless classics like “The Cat in the Hat Comes Back” and “The Berenstain Bears Play Ball” to more recent releases like “She Persisted in Sports” and “Allie All Along,” these books provide fun stories that teach valuable lessons about teamwork, perseverance, and embracing challenges. Many of these books also feature relatable characters that children can identify with, making them a great way to inspire young readers to get involved in sports themselves.
Whether your child is already a sports enthusiast or is just starting to explore the world of athletics, there are many great kids’ books about sports that can help nurture their curiosity and build their confidence. So why not pick up a copy of one of these books today and give your child the gift of a lifelong love of sports?
Science Gets Sporty by Mark Weakland (STEM)
Science and sports have always gone hand in hand, and now more than ever, it’s becoming increasingly apparent. As advancements in technology continue to push the envelope, we’re seeing more and more sports being analyzed and improved through scientific research. The field of sports science has grown tremendously over the past few decades, combining physics, biology, and other fields to better understand the human body in motion.
From studying biomechanics to examining the diets of athletes, scientists have found countless ways to maximize performance and minimize injury. Even things like uniforms and equipment are now being designed with advanced materials and technology to give athletes an extra edge. The connection between science and sports is a perfect example of how different fields can come together to achieve a common goal.
As we continue to push the boundaries of what’s possible, it’s exciting to think about all the ways science will continue to shape how we play and watch sports.
This Is the Game by Diane Z. Shore (History)
If you’re looking for an engaging and educational read for children, Diane Z. Shore’s “This Is the Game” is definitely worth the pick. The book introduces readers to the history and cultural significance of various ball games played throughout history, including soccer, basketball, and baseball.
Not only is it a fun way to learn about sports, but it also teaches children about how games have evolved and been influenced by different cultures. For instance, did you know that soccer has been played for over 2,000 years and was originally played with a human head? The book is full of interesting facts like these that keep readers engaged and excited to learn more. Overall, “This Is the Game” is a great way to combine fun and education for children of all ages.
So why not give it a try and see how much you and your child can learn about the games we play?
Conclusion
Playing sports is not just about winning or losing, it’s about learning valuable lessons that last a lifetime. Through dedication, teamwork, and persistence, children can develop important skills that will benefit them both on and off the field. These inspiring tales encourage kids to never give up, seize every opportunity, and always strive for their personal best.
So whether it’s baseball, basketball, soccer, or football, the true champion is the one who stays focused, works hard, and has fun along the way. And who knows, maybe one day they’ll be writing their own witty and clever conclusion to their sports journey too.”
FAQs
What are some popular kids books about sports?
Popular kids books about sports include “The Crossover” by Kwame Alexander, “Heat” by Mike Lupica, and “The Boy Who Saved Baseball” by John H. Ritter.
Are there any books about girls in sports for kids?
Yes, there are several great kids books about girls in sports including “She Persisted: 10 American Women Who Changed the World” by Chelsea Clinton and “The Sweetest Sound” by Sherri Winston about a girl who wants to play basketball.
Can you recommend any picture books about sports for younger kids?
Yes, some great picture books about sports for younger kids include “Goodnight Baseball” by Michael Dahl, “Lulu and the Brontosaurus” by Judith Viorst, and “A Home Run for Bunny” by Richard Andersen.
Do any kids books about sports teach life lessons?
Yes, several kids books about sports teach valuable life lessons such as “Teammates” by Peter Golenbock about the friendship between Jackie Robinson and Pee Wee Reese, “The Art of Fielding” by Chad Harbach about overcoming failure, and “The Lucky Baseball Bat” by Matt Christopher about the importance of hard work.