Sports is an essential aspect of our lives, and introducing kids to sports at an early age enhances their physical and mental development. Children who grow up with a deep understanding and interest in sports can enjoy a sense of belonging, teamwork, and discipline. One of the best ways to inspire and entertain children is through reading.
That’s why we’ve compiled a list of the top 10 sports books for kids. These books will motivate your kids to learn more about sports, inspire them to stay healthy and fit, and help them understand the importance of teamwork and hard work. Let’s dive right into the list!
1. ‘The Crossover’ by Kwame Alexander
Sports books for kids can be a great way to ignite a passion for reading and spark a love for sports. One of the top recommendations in this category is “The Crossover” by Kwame Alexander. This award-winning book features basketball as its central theme and tells the story of twin brothers Josh and Jordan as they navigate both the trials of adolescence and the high-pressure world of basketball.
Written in verse with powerful imagery and an engaging plot, “The Crossover” is a perfect pick for sports-loving kids who might not consider themselves avid readers. It also offers important lessons about family, relationships, and the importance of teamwork and perseverance. Overall, “The Crossover” is a slam dunk choice for any young reader looking for a sports-infused page-turner.
A novel in verse about basketball and brotherhood.
If you’re looking for a new book to add to your reading list, you won’t want to miss out on “The Crossover” by Kwame Alexander. This novel in verse is all about basketball and brotherhood, and it tells the story of twin brothers Josh and Jordan as they navigate their way through adolescence both on and off the court. With powerful language that flows seamlessly from one page to the next, Alexander captures the excitement and intensity of the basketball games that the brothers play, as well as the challenges they face as they grow up and begin to drift apart.
Whether you’re a fan of basketball or simply enjoy well-written poetry, “The Crossover” is a must-read that will leave you feeling deeply moved and inspired.
2. ‘The Boys in the Boat’ by Daniel James Brown
If you’re looking for a captivating read that combines sports and poetry, then look no further than ‘The Crossover’ by Kwame Alexander. This young adult novel is a triumph in storytelling, following the life of a young basketball player named Josh Bell as he navigates family, friendship, and the high stakes of the game. Alexander’s poetic style is a perfect match for the action on the court, as he weaves together words and phrases in a way that captures the rhythm of the game.
Readers will find themselves rooting for Josh and his teammates as they face challenges both on and off the court, and may even shed a tear or two by the end. Whether you’re a fan of basketball or simply a lover of great storytelling, ‘The Crossover’ is not to be missed.
The inspiring true story of the 1936 Olympic rowing team.
If you’re looking for an inspiring read that will make your heart swell with pride, then ‘The Crossover’ by Kwame Alexander should be at the top of your list. The book tells the story of twin brothers Josh and Jordan, who are both basketball prodigies. But as they navigate their way through high school, they begin to grow apart and face challenges that threaten to tear them apart.
Along the way, they learn valuable lessons about family, loyalty, and the importance of chasing your dreams. The book is a must-read for anyone who loves sports or coming-of-age stories, and it’s sure to leave you feeling inspired and uplifted. So what are you waiting for? Grab a copy of ‘The Crossover’ today and discover why it’s one of the most beloved young adult books of all time.
3. ‘Chasing the Falconers’ by Gordon Korman
If you’re looking for sports books for kids that are full of suspense and adventure, then ‘Chasing the Falconers’ by Gordon Korman is a great choice. The story follows siblings Aiden and Meg as they go on the run after being accused of a crime they didn’t commit. The book is filled with thrilling chase scenes as the siblings navigate through the wilderness to avoid getting caught.
While sports might not be the main focus of the story, there are plenty of references to soccer as Aiden is a big fan of the sport. Overall, if your child loves sports and enjoys books with action and adventure, ‘Chasing the Falconers’ is definitely worth checking out.
A thrilling adventure series featuring two siblings on the run.
If you’re looking for an exciting adventure series to get your heart racing, look no further than “Chasing the Falconers” by Gordon Korman. This book follows the thrilling story of two siblings on the run, who must work together to stay alive and clear their names. As the title suggests, the Falconer siblings are being chased by the law, falsely accused of a crime they didn’t commit.
Along the way, they encounter all kinds of obstacles and dangers, including treacherous terrain, dangerous strangers, and unexpected twists and turns. But with their quick thinking and resourcefulness, they manage to stay one step ahead of their pursuers and unravel the truth behind their plight. The book is full of suspense, action, and heart-pumping adrenaline, making it the perfect read for anyone who loves a good adventure story.
So if you’re ready to embark on a thrilling journey with two brave siblings, pick up a copy of “Chasing the Falconers” today!
4. ‘Out of My League’ by Dirk Hayhurst
When it comes to young adult fiction, ‘Chasing the Falconers’ by Gordon Korman is a true standout. The novel follows siblings Aidan and Meg as they escape from a juvenile detention center and go on the run, determined to prove their innocence for a crime they didn’t commit. Along the way, they encounter numerous obstacles and must rely on their resourcefulness and quick thinking to stay one step ahead of the law.
Korman’s writing style is fast-paced and engaging, and the characters are well-developed and relatable. The plot is full of twists and turns, and readers will be on the edge of their seats as they follow the siblings’ journey. Overall, ‘Chasing the Falconers’ is a thrilling read that will appeal to both young adults and adults alike.
A baseball memoir for older kids with a focus on perseverance.
If you’re looking for a baseball memoir that focuses on perseverance, “Chasing the Falconers” by Gordon Korman is a great pick. While not solely about baseball, this young adult novel follows the story of Aiden and Meg Falconer, two siblings who are on the run from the law after their parents are wrongfully arrested. Throughout their journey, they face numerous obstacles and challenges, but they never give up.
Their perseverance in the face of adversity is truly inspiring, and it’s a quality that any young baseball player can relate to. This book is a great reminder that no matter how tough things may seem, if you keep pushing forward and never give up, you can accomplish anything. So if you’re looking for a book that will motivate your young athlete to persevere, “Chasing the Falconers” is definitely worth a read.
5. ‘Babe Ruth and the Ice Cream Mess’ by Dan Gutman
If you’re on the lookout for exciting sports books for kids, “Babe Ruth and the Ice Cream Mess” by Dan Gutman is a must-read! This fun and informative book tells the story of one of the greatest baseball players of all time, Babe Ruth. But it’s not just a biography. The story is based on a true event where Babe Ruth, in a fit of rage, threw a punch at an umpire during a game.
To make things right, he visited a children’s hospital and caused quite the commotion. The book is filled with humor, drama, and tons of baseball facts that will keep young readers engaged. It’s a great way to introduce kids to the game and its legends while also teaching them valuable lessons about sportsmanship and forgiveness.
Overall, “Babe Ruth and the Ice Cream Mess” is an entertaining and educational read that is perfect for sports-loving kids!
A baseball-themed mystery novel for young readers.
If you’re on the hunt for a baseball-themed mystery novel that young readers will love, look no further than “Babe Ruth and the Ice Cream Mess” by Dan Gutman. In this entertaining and engaging tale, the one and only Babe Ruth finds himself embroiled in a mouthwatering mystery involving his favorite food-ice cream! It all begins when Babe visits an ice cream shop and discovers that someone has been tampering with the flavors, making them taste terrible. With the help of his friend, Jack, Babe sets out to solve the case and uncover the culprit behind the ice cream mess.
Along the way, readers will learn fun facts about the legendary baseball player and enjoy plenty of suspense and laughs. Gutman’s writing style is approachable and easy to follow, making this book a perfect choice for young readers who are just starting to explore the mystery genre. So, if you want to keep your kids entertained and engaged during their free time, be sure to check out “Babe Ruth and the Ice Cream Mess”- it’s a home run!
6. ‘Game Time’ by Stuart J. Murphy
For children who enjoy playing games and learning math at the same time, ‘Game Time’ by Stuart J. Murphy is a great read. The story follows a group of friends who play various games, such as hopscotch and tag, while using math to keep score and determine the winner.
The characters use counting, adding, and subtracting to keep track of their progress. The book is a fun and educational way to introduce young children to basic math concepts, and it shows them that math can be a part of their everyday activities. Another great children’s book that mixes sports and learning is ‘Babe Ruth and the Ice Cream Mess’ by Dan Gutman.
In this story, a young Babe Ruth accidentally knocks over a container of ice cream while playing baseball, leading him to learn about the importance of honesty and responsibility. This book teaches children about accountability and the consequences of their actions, all while highlighting one of the greatest baseball players of all time. Both ‘Game Time’ and ‘Babe Ruth and the Ice Cream Mess’ are excellent choices for parents and educators looking to engage children with entertaining stories that also help them learn important life skills.
An educational picture book about math and sports.
If you’re looking for an educational and fun picture book that ties together sports and math, then you might want to check out “Babe Ruth and the Ice Cream Mess” by Dan Gutman. This book follows Babe Ruth, one of the greatest baseball players of all time, as he accidentally spills his ice cream on the ground in the middle of a game. As he tries to clean it up, he gets help from a mathematician who shows him how to use math to figure out the size of the mess and how to clean it up.
It’s a great way for kids to learn about math concepts like area, circumference, and volume in a fun and engaging way. Plus, it’s perfect for kids who love sports and want to learn more about their favorite athletes. So if you’re looking for a book that will teach your child about math while also keeping them entertained, then “Babe Ruth and the Ice Cream Mess” might be a perfect fit.
Give it a read today and see for yourself!
7. ‘The Only Game’ by Mike Lupica
For young sports enthusiasts, “The Only Game” by Mike Lupica is a must-read. This book tells the story of twelve-year-old Jack Callahan, who finds solace in baseball after his father’s death. Jack becomes the star pitcher of his Little League team and discovers the power of teamwork and perseverance.
Lupica beautifully captures the emotions and struggles that come with grief and healing, while also highlighting the importance of sportsmanship and dedication. This book is perfect for kids who love baseball or any sport, as it teaches valuable life lessons that go beyond the field. And for parents searching for sports books for kids, “The Only Game” is a great choice that combines engaging storytelling with positive messaging.
A heartwarming story about the power of sports to bring people together.
“The Only Game” by Mike Lupica is a heartwarming story that showcases the power of sports to bring people together. The novel centers around a young boy named Jack who lives in a small town in Maine. After his father passes away, Jack turns to baseball as a way to cope with his grief and connect with others in his community.
He joins a local Little League team and becomes close with the team’s coach, who helps him navigate the ups and downs of life on and off the field. Throughout the story, we see how the sport of baseball unites people from different backgrounds and brings them together in a common goal. Whether it’s a big game or a small practice, the players and coaches support each other and create a sense of belonging that extends far beyond the diamond.
“The Only Game” is a reminder of the power of sports to heal, inspire, and connect people of all ages and backgrounds, and is a must-read for anyone who loves the game of baseball or believes in the power of community.
8. ‘Miracle on 49th Street’ by Mike Lupica
If you’re a fan of sports fiction, then you definitely don’t want to miss ‘The Only Game’ by Mike Lupica. This story follows the life of Jack Callahan, a young boy whose passion for baseball keeps him going amidst all the difficulties he faces at school and at home. Jack’s coach, Teddy, is more than just a mentor to him.
He is the only person who truly understands and believes in Jack, even when no one else does. Together, they set out to win the Little League championship and make a difference in their small town. Mike Lupica delivers an engrossing narrative that will leave you cheering for Jack and his team until the very end.
The book highlights the importance of determination, teamwork, and perseverance, qualities that are sure to inspire readers of all ages. Overall, ‘The Only Game’ is a heart-warming tale that reminds us of the power of sports to bring people together and make a difference.
A basketball novel with a surprising twist.
If you are a fan of basketball and love reading novels with surprising twists, then you should definitely check out Mike Lupica’s “The Only Game”. It’s a captivating story about a young boy named Jack, who is an avid basketball player and wants to become a star one day. However, Jack’s life takes a turn when his best friend passes away tragically.
He finds himself struggling with the grief and doesn’t know how to move on. That’s when he discovers something unexpected about his friend, and it changes everything. I found myself on the edge of my seat, wondering what would happen next.
The book not only offers a great story about basketball but also touches on important themes like friendship, loss, and forgiveness. I highly recommend this novel to anyone who loves sports and wants to read a heartwarming story with an unexpected twist.
9. ‘Heat’ by Mike Lupica
If you’re looking for sports books for kids, Mike Lupica’s “Heat” is a great choice. This novel follows a young baseball player named Michael Arroyo, who is an incredible pitcher, but also struggles with the challenges of growing up in New York City without any parents. When his baseball team is on the path to winning the championship, Michael’s secret about his living situation is threatened to be exposed, and he must fight to stay on the team and keep playing the game he loves.
Lupica’s writing style is engaging and relatable, making it easy for young readers to connect with Michael’s story. As a bonus, the book also teaches important lessons about perseverance and teamwork that can be valuable for young athletes. In short, “Heat” is a fantastic choice for sports-loving kids looking for an exciting and inspiring read.
A story about a young baseball pitcher learning to navigate the pressures of fame.
If you’re looking for a book that perfectly captures the pressure and expectation placed upon young athletes, then “Heat” by Mike Lupica is the book for you. This novel follows the story of Michael Arroyo, a young baseball pitcher with an incredible arm and an even greater passion for the sport. Despite his talent, Michael faces countless obstacles on his path to success, including poverty, a mother who has passed away, and the constant scrutiny of the media and his peers.
As he rises to stardom, Michael must learn to navigate the pressures of fame and stay true to himself, all while trying to lead his team to the championship title. Between exhilarating game scenes and poignant moments of vulnerability, “Heat” is a heartwarming story that truly captures the essence of what it means to pursue a dream, no matter the struggles that may come along the way.
10. ‘Hoop Genius’ by John Coy
“Heat” by Mike Lupica is a gripping tale of young basketball players pursuing their dreams, even when the pressure becomes too much to handle. The story follows Michael Arroyo, a talented pitcher, as he and his friends try to sneak onto a basketball court, leading to an unfortunate accident. In the aftermath, Michael is forced to fight for his right to play, facing off against powerful adults who don’t believe he belongs.
The high-stakes plot will keep readers on the edge of their seats, while the relatable characters remind us of the importance of staying true to ourselves. Lupica’s writing is engaging and accessible to readers of all ages, making “Heat” an excellent choice for anyone looking for a thrilling sports story.
A picture book biography of basketball inventor James Naismith.
“Picture book biography of basketball inventor James Naismith” If you’re looking for a way to introduce young readers to the man behind one of America’s favorite sports, “Hoops to Hippos: True Stories of a Basketball Inventor and Other Sports Innovators” by Susie Finkbeiner is an engaging picture book option. This informative and entertaining biography delves into the fascinating life of James Naismith, a Canadian physical education instructor who invented basketball in 189 From his childhood in rural Ontario to his groundbreaking creation of the game while teaching at the School for Christian Workers in Massachusetts, Naismith’s story is sure to captivate both sports enthusiasts and history buffs.
Finkbeiner’s lively narrative is complemented by vibrant illustrations from artist Evan Turk, making this a visually stunning and educational resource for classrooms and personal libraries alike. Whether you’re a lifelong fan of basketball or just looking to expand your knowledge of sports history, “Hoops to Hippos” is a must-read for all ages.
Conclusion
After sifting through a plethora of sports books for kids, we can confidently say that this genre has something for everyone. Young readers can choose to dive into the world of soccer, basketball, baseball, or even extreme sports like skateboarding. These books not only teach kids about the rules and strategies of their favorite sports, but also instill important values like teamwork, dedication, and perseverance.
So why wait? Grab a sports book and let the games begin!”
FAQs
What are some of the best sports books for kids?
Some of the best sports books for kids are “The Crossover” by Kwame Alexander, “The Girl Who Ran” by Frances Poletti and Kristina Yee, and “The Underdogs” by Mike Lupica.
Are there any series of sports books for kids?
Yes, there are many series of sports books for kids, such as “Matt Christopher Sports Classics,” “Winners Take All,” and “Baseball Card Adventures.”
Do sports books for kids only focus on team sports?
No, sports books for kids cover a wide range of sports, including individual sports like gymnastics, swimming, and track and field.
Are there sports books for kids of all ages?
Yes, there are sports books for kids of all ages, from picture books for younger children to chapter books for older kids and young adults.