Sports and reading may seem like polar opposites to some middle schoolers, but the truth is that sports-themed books can be the perfect way to engage young readers and ignite their passion for reading. From biographies of legendary athletes to fictional stories set in the world of sports, there are countless books that can capture the imagination of middle schoolers who love sports. You may elevate your reading experience with sports books carefully selected for middle schoolers available on this website.
Here are some top sports books that are sure to keep young readers hooked from the first page to the last.
Biographies of Sports Legends
1. "Who Was Jesse Owens?" by James Buckley Jr.
- A biography of Jesse Owens, the legendary track and field athlete who won four gold medals at the 1936 Berlin Olympics.
- Provides insight into Owens' life and achievements, as well as the challenges he faced as an African American athlete during a time of racial segregation.
- Engaging storytelling and illustrations make this book a compelling read for middle schoolers.
2. "The Boy Who Never Gave Up: Stephen Curry" by Anthony Curcio
- A biography of NBA superstar Stephen Curry, detailing his journey from an underdog to a two-time MVP.
- Inspiring story of perseverance, hard work, and overcoming obstacles to achieve success in basketball.
- Includes fun facts, quotes, and photographs to bring Curry's story to life for young readers.
Fictional Sports Stories
1. "Heat" by Mike Lupica
- A heartwarming story about a young boy named Michael Arroyo who dreams of playing professional baseball.
- Explores themes of friendship, family, and pursuing one's passion against all odds.
- Lupica's engaging writing style and authentic sports details make this book a favorite among young sports fans.
2. "The Crossover" by Kwame Alexander
- A novel-in-verse about twin brothers who are star basketball players and must navigate family, friendship, and the challenges of growing up.
- Blends poetry and basketball to create a unique and captivating reading experience for middle schoolers.
- Winner of the Newbery Medal and Coretta Scott King Author Award, "The Crossover" is a must-read for young sports enthusiasts.
Inspirational Sports Stories
1. "The Playbook: 52 Rules to Aim, Shoot, and Score in This Game Called Life" by Kwame Alexander
- A collection of motivational poems and quotes inspired by sports, offering life lessons and advice for young readers.
- Encourages readers to apply the principles of sportsmanship, teamwork, and perseverance to their everyday lives.
- Interactive format with illustrations and journaling prompts makes this book engaging and thought-provoking for middle schoolers.
2. "Game Changer: John McLendon and the Secret Game" by John Coy
- Based on a true story, this book follows basketball coach John McLendon as he breaks the color barrier in college basketball.
- Highlights the power of sports to bring people together and create positive change in society.
- Inspiring tale of courage, resilience, and the importance of standing up for what is right.
Conclusion
Reading sports books can be a fun and exciting way for middle schoolers to explore their love of sports while developing their reading skills. Whether it's diving into the lives of sports legends, getting lost in fictional sports stories, or drawing inspiration from motivational sports tales, there are plenty of sports books out there to capture the hearts and minds of young readers. So, if you know a middle schooler who is a sports fan, consider introducing them to one of these top sports books and watch their passion for reading ignite!