796.323 BASKETBALL
796.323 BASKETBALL The photographs in this biography of a young basketball
superstar are excellent. The book alternates black and white with color
photos, including a two-page spread in the center. The text, however, is a
disappointment since grammar and syntax are lacking. The large print and limited
text are a good format for early readers, but the vocabulary is too challenging
for the very young. Quotes from the athlete are the highlight of the text
since they provide the only unique information about this basketball star.
This book may appeal to the very young sports lover, anxious to pick up the
book because of the photographs, but those familiar with the sports biography
genre will soon see its inadequacies. The Kobe Bryant Story by Wayne Coffey
from Scholastic's Fast Breaks series is a far better alternative for those
seeking to entice young sports-lovers to read.
Tami Seavoy, attorney & school library volunteer, Father Marquette Catholic Schools, Marquette,
MI
Freedman, Russell. BABE DIDRIKSON ZAHARIAS: THE MAKING OF A CHAMPION.
New York: Clarion, 1999. 192p. 0-395-63367-2
hb. $18.00 98-50208 Gr. 5-12
796.352
Mildred Ella was nicknamed Baby because she was
the sixth child in the family. When another brother was born, she
became Babe, a name which continued when she played baseball with neighborhood
boys. Freedman shows her as a person of her times; Babe
was 9-years-old when women got the right to vote and was a ground breaking
athlete when women were supposed to stay at home. Freedman does an
excellent job of showing Babe as a person and an athlete, a tomboy who wasn't
interested in makeup and played everything but dolls. Babe went
from the terror of the neighborhood to the hero of the town. She was
a high school athlete who left school before her junior year to play basketball
for an Insurance company. Once in a meet, she was a one person
team who won six gold medals and broke four women's world records.
During the 1932 Olympics, she won two gold and a silver medal.
Babe married a wrestler, son of Greek immigrants, she was the daughter of
Norwegian immigrants. George was her manager and Freedman explains
how the breakup of their marriage occurred. Babe's special
passion was golf where she was the first American to win the British Women's
Amateur championship. In addition to golf, Babe was proficient
in basketball, baseball, tennis, diving, roller skating, bowler, and track
and field athletics and was the greatest female athletes of all times.
Freedman documents Babe as self confident, boastful, over-achieving, broody,
graceful, goal oriented, humorous, and a superior athlete. Chapter
by chapter notes and selected bibliography, black and white pictures on
every other page, and a complete index add to the value of this book.
This is a well-written and well-documented biography of an unusual woman
that deserves a place on school and public library shelves.
Mary Ann Paulin; Director, Superiorland Preview
Center, Marquette, MI
Stewart, Mark. JACKIE STILES: GYM DANDY. Basketball’s
New Wave series. Brookfield, CT:
Millbrook, 2002. 48p. 0-7613-2614-6;
lib.bdg., $22.90 2002-002670 Gr. 4+
796.323
Jackie Stiles was born in 1978 near Topeka, KS.
Her mother was a nurse and her father was a basketball coach. Their
fifth child, born with congenital encephalopathy and her brain did not develop
properly, died when Jackie was in junior high school. Jackie
loved playing basketball at an early age and because she lived in a small
town, she had the gym open to her to practice late at night. She practiced
and practiced and emulated some of Michael Jordan’s shots. During
high school Jackie had little time for boys. Although her team did
not win the state championship, she made All-state four times, was on the
first team, All-American and was Kansas basketball player of the Year twice,
and set two state records. In addition she was a regional cross-country
and tennis champs. Although she had offers to play for several college teams,
Jackie choose Southwest Missouri State University, SMSU. Jackie’s college
stats and achievements are included through 2001. Although she was a
great player, other college coaches had “nothing but nice things to say about
her…” and four quotes are provided. Jackie signed with the Portland
Fire of the WNBA and with Nike. Although Jackie only scored two points
in her first game and the team did not do well during that season,
Jackie was “Rookie of the Year” and was an All-Star for 2001. The writing is fluent, the topic is interesting, the
color photos on almost every page are sharp, and the index is complete.
This is a good bet for biography collections in school and public libraries.
Mary Ann Paulin; Director, Superiorland Preview
Center, Marquette, MI
Stewart, Mark. THE OHIO
STATE BUCKEYES. Chicago, IL:
Norwood House Press, 2009.
48p. ISBN: 978-1-59953-277-6
hb. Gr. 4
-8 j 796.332
This book is chock full of pictures and information on the Ohio State
Buckeyes. It features history of the football team, the coaching of Woody Hayes,
key players over the years, team statistics, fun facts and lots more
information. This book will delight the young reader who enjoys football
history. The book also includes a
glossary of football terms and links to websites or places to visit if you are
traveling.
Charlotte Dugas, Library Director, Munising School Public
Library
Stewart, Mark. TIM DUNCAN: TOWER OF POWER. Basketbal's New
Wave Series.
Brookfield, CT: Millbrook Press. 1999. 48p.
0-7613-1513-6; lib. bdg., $22.90
0-7613-1041-X; pb., $6.95 98-32237
Gr. 3+ 796.323
Like other books in this excellent series on new sports
heroes, this book provides much information, excellent photos
and an interesting read for the sports fan. Duncan, a forward for
the San Antonio Spurs, has only been playing in the NBA since 1998.
In his two seasons he has been named Rookie-of-the-Year, was part of the
NBA Championship Team in 1999 and placed third in MVP voting in 1999.
This book traces his childhood and presents a detailed picture of his college
career with Wake Forest University. It's an excellent biography for sports-loving
readers.
Tami Seavoy, attorney & school library volunteer, Father Marquette Catholic Schools, Marquette,
MI
Stewart, Mark. ALEX RODRIGUEZ: GUNNING FOR GREATNESS. Basketball's New Wave Series.
Brookfield, CT:
Millbrook, 1999. 48p. 0-7613-1515-2; lib.bdg., $22.90 99-17925
Gr. 3+ 796.357
This very informative biography of the Seattle Mariners'
superstar is recommended for any collection trying to attract sports-lovers.
There are color photographs for almost every person, place and event featured
in the book. In addition to pictures breaking up the text, there are fact
boxes that keep the reader interested and turning pages. The book presents
a great deal of information about A. Rod's early childhood and mentions
many other major league players and coaches who have had in impact on his
career. The final fact box presents stats and highlights of Rodriguez's
career so far. He is an athlete, and this is a well-written biography recommended
for all sports-lovers.
Tami Seavoy; attorney/volunteer library
coordinator, Father Marquette Catholic Schools, Marquette,
MI,
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796.332 FOOTBALLBenjey,
Tom. WISCONSIN’S CARLISLE INDIAN
SCHOOL IMMORTALS. Carlisle, PA:
Tuxedo
Press, 2011. 329p.
978-1-936191-22-5 pb. $19.95
Gr. 7 & up 796.332
Doeden, Matt.
THE BEST OF PRO FOOTBALL. Best of Pro Sports Series.
Mankato, MN:
Capstone
Press, 2010. 24p.
ISBN: 978-1-4296-3328 hb. $15.99
Gr. 1-3 j 796
Capstone
Press continues to publish informational books for the young child in a format
they will find enjoyable. This book, THE BEST OF PRO FOOTBALL, is about
the records set by professional football players. The series it is in is
about the best that happens in professional sports. These books are
informational books, written with table of contents, indexes, and glossaries
included with the information. They are a great way to introduce first
through third grade students the fundamentals of informational reading.
And, this age groups loves to learn facts and trivia.
Christine Collins, Library Director: L'Anse Area
Schools/Public Library
Stewart, Mark. TERRELL DAVIS: TOUGHING
IT OUT. Illus. with photos. Football's New Wave Series.
Brookfield, CT: Millbrook, 1999.
48p. 0-7613-1038-X; pb., 6.95 99-17952 Gr. 4+
796.332
This book is written simply and straightforwardly
and doesn't paint Davis as perfect but instead explains the problems he's
had in his life and how he's overcome them. Terrell's father's ex-convict
status, drug use, abusive behavior, and Terrell's mother's unfaithfulness
are chronicled. One weakness is that the book does not give an objective
assessment of Terrell's differences with his college coach or provide
readers with the coach's side of the situation. One favorable aspect
of the book is that it offers readers a portrait of someone who has succeeded
despite tremendous odds against them. One does not have
to be a Broncos fan to enjoy this book.
Renee Prusi, lifelong reader and lifelong
football fan; Journalist; Marquette Mining Journal
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Baddiel's book contains concise, basic points
of the game as well as the history of soccer and the World Cup. There
is very little on tactics and techniques for playing but that is not the
purpose of this book. One section of the book is devoted to great teams
and is arranged by country, each of which has a single page or double page
spread. The U.S. page is devoted to the women who won the 1996 Olympic
championship. Another section is devoted to great players, most of
them unknown in the U.S. except for Pele. A page or half page is devoted
to 17 players. There is information about each World Cup from 1930
through 1998. The variety in the color and black and white photos
that characterize DK books. There are lots of side bars, charts, and
lists like teams, key dates, players of the year, international winners,
and rules. The information on the rules is the only part of the book
which will be dated. This book just scratches the surface of the game
and is intended for general background information of the game. This
is a good book for anyone who wants to know the background of the game or
for browsers.
GUEST REVIEWER: W. Vern Scott, Assistant Coach,
Marquette Senior High School Soccer Team
Holder of an "E" License for coaching ages 7-16;
7 years of experience as a youth soccer coach.
Buxton, Ted with Alex Leith & Jim Drewitt. SOCCER SKILLS
FOR YOUNG PLAYERS. Buffalo: Firefly, 2000.
128p. ISBN 1-55209-329-8; pb., $14.95. C99-931652-4
Gr. 4-10+ 796.334
Up to eight clear color photos per page show males and
females, who are either adult or high school students, explaining soccer skills.
The page layout, sidebars, sketches, and text produce an attractive book
and the glossary, index, the 23 addresses, and URLs add to the usefulness.
Scott says “This is one of the best books I’ve seen,
not only for intermediate players but also for coaches of younger teams.
It contains not only detailed skills and drills but also sound advice on
warming up and cooling down for practice and games. There are drills to master
basic soccer skills from beginners to match play including basic ball control
to offensive and defensive tactics. The coaching tips and detailed
diagrams help coaches and players alike. It has guidelines for
players on what to eat and drink to maintain fitness and ability. This
book was written by a coach with over 30 years of soccer experience at all
levels and it shows. This title is a great asset to players and coaches.
STRONGLY RECOMMENDED.”
GUEST REVIEWER: W. Vern Scott, Assistant Coach,
Marquette Senior High School Soccer Team
Gibbons, Gail. MY SOCCER BOOK. Illus by author. New York: HarperCollins,
2000. 24p. 0-688-17138-9; hb., $5.95.
99-34514 Gr. K-3. 796.334
Gibbons, known for her no nonsense easy nonfiction books
for early readers, has produced small sized sports books. The
soccer book can be read to preschoolers through first grade children on a
one-to-one basis because of the small size or can be read independently by
good first graders to third graders. Because of the straightforward
basic text it can be used for remedial readers. Title I teachers
will want a copy of the book because the cartoon-like players could be fifth
graders and the subject matter is appealing to soccer fans. Because
there are adult fans in the stands, the book can be used with beginning
adult readers. Information is basic and easy to read
and includes information about clothing, number of players, time frame,
what happens during the game, and a glossary page. Helpful charts
include the field, players and their positions on the field. This
is a book on the most basic level because it provides an overview of the
game for children.
Vern Scott says the book provides “very basic information,
like a beginning reading book for first through third graders and is OK
for a first year player, 6-7 years. However, the book is weak on stressing
teamwork.”
Because of the subject appeal of this book, it will be popular in schools
and public libraries.
GUEST REVIEWER: W. Vern Scott, Assistant Coach,
Marquette Senior High School Soccer Team
Owens, Thomas and Diana Star Helmer. SOCCER. Illus
with photos. Brookfield, CT: Twenty-first Century
Books,
2000. 64p. 0-7613-1400-8; lib.bdg., $22.90 99-41541
Gr. 5-9 796.334
This book begins with a chapter about the 15th World
Cup in 1994 and ends with a chapter on the 1998 World Cup. Five chapters
focus on the role of a coach and four player positions in relationship to
the World Cup games between those dates. A four and a half page glossary
is helpful. The “For More Information” section includes two book lists
and 5 Internet URLs; all book copyrights are between 1994 and 1998.
There is a three-page index that is useful for locating player names and
subjects. Twenty color and one black and white photo are interspersed
throughout the book. The text has more appeal for research than for
pleasure reading. This book is “a late, brief history of the game with
special world cup games, their outcomes, and players who stood out.
It is useful only for World Cup History. Written for older
beginning players, it is not very interesting and has no game skills or
tactics at all.”
GUEST REVIEWER: W. Vern Scott, Assistant Coach,
Marquette Senior High School Soccer Team
Rutledge, Rachel. MIA HAMM: STRIKING SUPERSTAR. Soccer’s
New Wave series.
Brookfield, CT: Milllbrook, 2000.
48p. 0-7613-1802-X lib.bdg. $22.90 Gr. 3-7
796.334
Learn about the early life and career of one of the
members of the 1999 Women’s World Cup championship soccer team. As
a child, Ham was a shy in public but lively at home. After one class
of ballet, Mia’s father introduced her to soccer. The book is laid
out in an interesting manner with lots of black and white and color photos
and sidebars called “Did You Know? Another sidebar includes
six of Mia’s favorites and others include statistics. Readers learn
unusual facts like Mia played high school football, played high school soccer
in Texas, college soccer at the University of North Carolina, and played
for the USA in the Olympics and several World Cup years. Female soccer
fans will enjoy reading this biography of a player who appeared on lots of
magazine covers.
Mary Ann Paulin; Director, Superiorland Preview
Center, Marquette, MI
Rutledge, Rachel. THE BEST OF THE BEST IN SOCCER.
Illus with photos. Women of Sports series.
Brookfield,
CT: Millbrook, 1998. 64p. 0-7613-1315-X; hb. $22.90. 0-7613-1907-7; lib.bdg., $23.90
0-7613-13923; pb., $7.95. 98-25635 Gr. 3-9. 796.334
A sportswriter and historian tells about eight world
players and how they got to the top including: Michelle Akers, Joy Fawcett,
Julie Foudy, Mia Hamm, Kris Lillly, Shannon MacMillan, Carla Overbeck, and
Briana Scurry. Each chapter includes a full-page color photo of the
players, smaller photos, sidebars of their personal life and career highlights
but the main part of the article focuses on their soccer life. The
vocabulary is easy enough for fourth graders but not condescending to high
school students. Anyone interested in girls’ soccer players could enjoy
this book.
Rutledge begins with the history of women’s soccer
from Europe to the USA. The book contains brief biographies of eight
players from the women’s World Cup and Olympic team with interesting personal
information and some individual statistics. Recommended for high school
girls.
GUEST REVIEWER: W. Vern Scott, Assistant Coach,
Marquette Senior High School Soccer Team
Scott, Nina Savin. SMART SOCCER: HOW TO USE YOUR MIND TO
PLAY YOUR BEST.
Brookfield, CT: Millbrook,
1999. 96p. 0-7613-1294-3 pb. $8.95. 99-16203 Gr. 5-12
796.344
The author explains what being in “the zone” means,
and cautions readers how to think only about things you can control.
Other advice is to appreciate your opponent and learn from mistakes or is
concerned with topics like losing, fairness, practice, injuries, burnout,
as well as dealing with bad calls, bad advice, bad fields, bad weather,
and trash talk. This book is totally executed in black and white
with only a few photos and parts of a shadowy soccer ball for relief.
Headings in the margins help locate information of interest quickly even
though the index could be used. There is also a bibliography,
notes, and list of persons interviewed.
Vern Scott says: “This is a sports psychology book [which] shows how
to use your mental skills to maximize your performance when playing [and]
focuses on giving the player a positive outlook and winning attitude.
There are many good points in this book for a coach to stress to players,
like negative thoughts, pressure from peers and parents, and mistakes made
on the field, just to name a few.” Coach Scott says the book is “for
beginning to intermediate players looking to improve their game skills as
well as coaches and parents.” Furthermore, “it is the type of book a parent
could read with a younger child.” Coach Scott recommends the book
for “only to those who seriously want to become better soccer players
and smarter coaches. “ He also says the book “can also be compared
to life situations, not just sports.”
GUEST REVIEWER: W. Vern Scott, Assistant Coach,
Marquette Senior High School Soccer Team
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796.34 TENNIS
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Mildred Ella was nicknamed Baby because she was
the sixth child in the family. When another brother was born, she
became Babe, a name which continued when she played baseball with neighborhood
boys. Freedman shows her as a person of her times; Babe
was 9-years-old when women got the right to vote and was a ground breaking
athlete when women were supposed to stay at home. Freedman does an
excellent job of showing Babe as a person and an athlete, a tomboy who wasn't
interested in makeup and played everything but dolls. Babe went
from the terror of the neighborhood to the hero of the town. She was
a high school athlete who left school before her junior year to play basketball
for an Insurance company. Once in a meet, she was a one person
team who won six gold medals and broke four women's world records.
During the 1932 Olympics, she won two gold and a silver medal.
Babe married a wrestler, son of Greek immigrants, she was the daughter
of Norwegian immigrants. George was her manager and Freedman explains
how the breakup of their marriage occurred. Babe's special
passion was golf where she was the first American to win the British Women's
Amateur championship. In addition to golf, Babe was proficient
in basketball, baseball, tennis, diving, roller skating, bowler, and track
and field athletics and was the greatest female athletes of all times.
Freedman documents Babe as self confident, boastful, over-achieving, broody,
graceful, goal oriented, humorous, and a superior athlete. Chapter
by chapter notes and selected bibliography, black and white pictures on every
other page, and a complete index add to the value of this book. This
is a well-written and well-documented biography of an unusual woman that
deserves a place on school and public library shelves.
Mary Ann Paulin; Director, Superiorland Preview
Center, Marquette, MI
Uschan, Michael V. TIGER WOODS. People in the News Series.
San Diego: Lucent, 1999.
112p. 1-56006-528-1, lib. bdg. $22.45.98-50295.
Gr. 4-10 796.335
Tiger Woods is appealing to juveniles because few professional
athletes are so young. Black and white photos and text take Tiger from
child prodigy to superstar. A glossary of golf terminology is essential
for the non golfers. Notes, important dates, further reading,
works consulted, and an index complete the book. Tiger's relationship
with his father and quotes from other golfers are included.
Mary Ann Paulin; Director, Superiorland
Preview Center
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796.357 BASEBALL Gibbons, known for her no nonsense easy nonfiction books
for early readers, has produced small sized sports books on baseball, soccer,
football, and basketball. Unisex players demonstrate batting, pitching,
and catching stances. Two teams, the Robins and Owls, share the basics
of the game including positions and scoring. A diagram of a baseball
field with and without players and a glossary also help readers understand
the game. Gibbons explains our national pastime in simple, easy to
understand terms. Because of the way Gibbons has integrated illustrations
and text, this book can be used for remedial purposes or for adults with
English as a second language.
Mary Ann Paulin; Director, Superiorland Preview
Center, Marquette, MI
Mandel, Peter. SAY HEY! A SONG OF WILLIE MAYS.
New York: Jump at the Sun/Hyperion,
2000. 32p. 0-7868-0480-7 hb. $15.99
0-7868-2417-4 lib.bdg. $16.01 Gr. K-4
796.357
"Say Hey Facts" at the end of the book not only
tell how Willie's nickname the "Say Hey Kid" came about but also includes
important personal and baseball facts. The back of the book and jacket
look like a baseball card and include statistics for when Mays played outfield
for the New York Giants. The book itself is told in rhyme with a refrain
after every two lines. This book can be used to introduce antiphonal
choral reading to students. Provide a hand signal for students to
say the refrain in unison: "Say hey, Willie. Say hey."
It's unfortunate that part of the illustrations have been lost in the margins.
While this can keep Mandel's book from being a Caldecott winner, it should
not keep librarians in school and public libraries from purchasing this
handsome versatile book that is sure to be a crowd pleaser.
Mary Ann Paulin; Director, Superiorland Preview
Center
Schaefer, A. R. KEN GRIFFEY JR. Sports Heroes series.
Mankato, MN: Capstone
High-Interest, 2003. 48p. 0-7368-1294-6 lib.bdg.,
$21.26 Gr. 3-4 796.357
This is one of almost twenty biographies about current practitioners from
a variety of sports. The book begins with Griffey’s contribution to
the game between the Seattle Mariners and the New York Yankees during the
playoffs in 1995. Information about his 11 seasons with the Mariners
and his move to the Cincinnati Reds after 2000 are given in his career statistics
which include the 2001 season. Girffey’s father was a baseball player
whose son played football and baseball in high school and was part of the
state football championship team. Griffey was the first baseball player
drafted by the pros in 1987 when he was only 17 years old. He first
played in the minor leagues but was not happy and his suicide attempt in
1988 is included. Griffey ‘s first major league game was in 1989 and
his career to date is included as well as information about his family life.
There is a page of “Career Highlights,” a list of six “Words to Know,” a
list of three books in a section called “To Learn More,” three mail addresses
in “Useful Addresses,” three URLs under “Internet Sites,” and an index.
The color photos are clear and the text is readable and interesting.
Consider this title and others about Brett Favre, Michelle Kwan, and Serena
and Venus Williams.
Mary Ann Paulin; Director, Superiorland Preview
Center
Stewart, Mark. ICHIRO SUZUKI; BEST IN THE WEST. Brookfield, CT:
Millbrook, 2002.
48 p. 0-7613-2616-2; lib.bdg., $16.00
2002-003343 Gr. 4-8 796.7
There is a “New Wave” in baseball and hence the name
of the series including this biography of Ichiro Suzuki. The incubation
for this new wave concept came about because children of the 1980's, who
were raised on fast food, shopping malls, music videos and arcade games;
and who came of age in the '90 's had to battle the intense pressures and
distractions that now come with success in the sports. These athletes
are super-focused, super-tough and super-talented stars who establish themselves
in a time when a super-play can become news around the world soon after
it happens.
Although the first baseball arrived on the shores
of Japan in 1873, Japan did not export any baseball superstars to the U.S.
until almost a century later. Japanese baseball hero, Suzuki won just
about everything there was to win in Japan, so he decided to risk it and
make it in the major leagues. Happily, he did it in just one season
and consequently helped erase an eternal period of racial stereotyping.
This bio follows Suzuki from childhood when he was a wiry little guy, right
up until he joined the Seattle Mariners. Irchiro claims he had a dream...and
he made that dream come true in his becoming one of baseball's biggest stars--on
both sides of the Pacific!
Patricia Fittante; Children’s Librarian, Escanaba
Public Library, Escanaba, MI
Stewart, Mark. DEREK JETER: SUBSTANCE AND STYLE. Illus.
with photos. Brookfield, Ct:
Millbrook Press, 1999. 48p.
0-7613-1516-0; hb., $15.00. 99-17935 Gr. 4+
796.357 or 921
A boy from Kalamazoo, Michigan, was teased for predicting
that he would some day be a shortstop for the New York Yankees. However,
Derek Jeter grew up to have the last laugh because his life turned out just
exactly as he dreamed. Jeter made a name for himself as a student athlete
while maintaining an A-minus average. And things only got better. Stewart
traces Jeter's life from when he was a pint-sized pinstriper up to the time
of writing. Along with many fun and informative photographs there is a table
with Jeter's impressive stats. Any young boy who dreams like Jeter
did of some day playing in the big leagues will totally enjoy this biography.
Patricia Fittante; Children's Librarian, Escanaba
Public Library, Escanaba, MI
Weatherford,
Carole Boston. A NEGRO LEAGUE SCRAPBOOK. Illus. with photos.
Honesdale, PA:
Boyds Mills
Press, 2005. 48p. ISBN 1-59078-091-4
$19.95
Gr. 3-6 j796.357
Black Baseball Leagues began in 1887, when the major leagues decided not
to hire black players, and stayed strong until 1963 when the Civil Rights
movement changed segregation in America. This book has more photographs
than text. It features many of the well-known players of the time.
It also covers some of the history of black culture and segregation laws.
The layout is very appealing and easy to read.
Children who love baseball will read every inch of this book!
Public and school libraries should consider including this book in their
collection for elementary students.
Lynette Suckow, Youth Services, Peter White Public Library, Marquette,
MI
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796.42 RUNNING AND TRACK Mildred Ella was nicknamed Baby because she was
the sixth child in the family. When another brother was born, she
became Babe, a name which continued when she played baseball with neighborhood
boys. Freedman shows her as a person of her times; Babe
was 9-years-old when women got the right to vote and was a ground breaking
athlete when women were supposed to stay at home. Freedman does an
excellent job of showing Babe as a person and an athlete, a tomboy who wasn't
interested in makeup and played everything but dolls. Babe went
from the terror of the neighborhood to the hero of the town. She was
a high school athlete who left school before her junior year to play basketball
for an Insurance company. Once in a meet, she was a one person
team who won six gold medals and broke four women's world records.
During the 1932 Olympics, she won two gold and a silver medal.
Babe married a wrestler, son of Greek immigrants, she was the daughter
of Norwegian immigrants. George was her manager and Freedman explains
how the breakup of their marriage occurred. Babe's special
passion was golf where she was the first American to win the British Women's
Amateur championship. In addition to golf, Babe was proficient
in basketball, baseball, tennis, diving, roller skating, bowler, and track
and field athletics and was the greatest female athletes of all times.
Freedman documents Babe as self confident, boastful, over-achieving, broody,
graceful, goal oriented, humorous, and a superior athlete. Chapter
by chapter notes and selected bibliography, black and white pictures on every
other page, and a complete index add to the value of this book. This
is a well-written and well-documented biography of an unusual woman that
deserves a place on school and public library shelves.
Mary Ann Paulin; Director, Superiorland Preview
Center, Marquette, MI
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This is an exemplary science picture book. A
multitude of information is presented in an interesting manner and the cut
paper collage illustrations catch the spirit of the text. Information
includes: Sir George Everest, the city of Katmandu, the Shepas
people of Nepal, yaks, famous climbers, supplies, levels of mountain life,
trash left behind by climbers, icefall, rivers of ice, oxygen and breathing,
avalanches and the seven summits. Maps, records and a
bibliography are helpful. This is a book for readers of any age who
are interested in mountain climbing anywhere but especially in the Himalayas.
In a recent measuring, it was revealed that Mt. Everest measured is several
feet taller than formerly reported. This recent development should not affect
this book's chances as a Caldecott Medal contender because the new findings
may or may not be accurate and this book was accurate at the time of printing.
Highly recommended for elementary and middle schools as well public libraries.
Mary Ann Paulin; Director, Superiorland Preview
Center, Marquette, MI
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796.6 CYCLING[ To the top of this page ] | [ To SPC Homepage ]
Dahl, Michael. ONE CHECKERED FLAG: A COUNTING BOOK ABOUT
RACING.
Illus.by Derrick Aldermand and Denise Shea. Minneapolis,
MN: Picture Window Books, 2004.
24p. 1-4048-0576-1 hb. $15.95 Gr. PreS
- 2 796.72 or E
This is a counting book with lots of visual information
on race cars and racing. The illustrations, digitally composed on
a computer, are large and very bright. They show the action at the
race track and enhance the brief text. Each page also includes a small
graphic that symbolizes a number, the name of the number and how many items
are in the number. The last two pages highlight fun facts about auto
racing and counting activities. Young readers and teachers will find
this book interesting and useful.
Lynette Suckow, Peter White Public Library,
Marquette, MI
Marx, Mandy R.
MOTOCROSS RACING. Series:
Blazers to the Extreme. Mankato,
MN:
Capstone
Press, 2006. 32 p.
ISBN: 0736854657 hb. $14.95.
Gr. 1-2 j796.7
This is a very appealing book. The book is set up with one page of
text with a full-color photograph opposite. The text has only two
sentences per page and is appropriate to the reading level. The
photographs correspond to the text. Chapters are: Moto
Madness, Designed for Dirt, Motocross Safety and Pro Racing. The chapters
range from four to six pages in length. Motocross terms are explained on
some pages with "Blazer fact" sidebars. The book includes:
Table of Contents, Glossary index, reinforced library binding, photo diagrams
and "FactHound.com" Internet sites. A "Read More"
feature includes three references. This book would appeal to grades up to
9 as stated by the publisher and also younger readers because of the simple
text.
Denise Engel, Director, Wakefield Public Library
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Lapinski started roller skating when she
was 3 years old and won her first competition at age 5; she began ice skating
at age six. The book tells about her ballet and skating lessons,
how her family rallied behind her lessons and competitions, and her
road to an amazing 1998 Olympic Gold Medal. Information on the history
of ice skating is a bonus. Although the book is packed with information,
it flows in an interesting manner. The black and white photos are
in a center section away from the text but that is compensated for by
several which show Lapinski's effervescent smile. This book will entice reluctant
readers.
Mary Ann Paulin; Director, Superiorland
Preview Center, Marquette, MI
Gutman, Bill. TARA LIPINSKI: QUEEN OF THE ICE. Brookfield,
CT: Millbrook, 1999.
48p. Millbrook Sports World series. 0-7613-1456-3
lib.bdg. $19.90 Gr. 2-5
796.91
There are 18 color photos, most of them full page
to enhance the text which is easy enough for intermediate students and thin
enough for middle school students who want a quick read. The information
is current and Gutman discusses turning professional, being a national
spokesperson for the Boys & Girls Clubs of America, promoting
anti-tobacco legislation before Congress as a lobbyist, and working at Champions
on Ice then Stars on Ice. No mention was made of her recent venture
into the daytime soap operas in The Young and the Restless. A chronology,
bibliography, address at the Detroit Skating Club, and web site are helpful
additions. There are several reasons for Upper Peninsula libraries
to purchase this book. This biography
is about the youngest athlete to win a gold medal at the U.S. Olympic
Festival just after she turned 12 years old and did so recently enough that
it is easy for elementary students to identify with her. That
Lapinski is a winter sports figure in a snowy state is a plus. Gutman's
biography has a picture book feel to it and is appropriate for elementary
students whereas Christopher's ON THE ICE WITH...TARA LAPINSKI (Little,
1999) is for middle school students, and Jones' TARA LAPINSKI (Chelsea,
1997) is for junior and senior high school students. The books are
for different age levels and all are worthy biographies. Right now
Gutman's book contains the most recent information.
Mary Ann Paulin; Director, Superiorland Preview
Center, Marquette, MI;
Kwan, Michelle and Laura James. THE WINNING ATTITUDE! WHAT
IT TAKES TO BE A CHAMPION.
New York: Hyperion, 1999.
127p. 078680546-3; lib.bdg., $9.99 Gr. 4-10+
796.92 or 921
In the introduction, Michelle tells about taking skating
lessons at the age of five with her sister but it wasn't until she was
seven that she saw the 1988 Olympics and her "eyes were opened to truly
great figure skating." The thoughts and ideas in the book are Michelle's
but were written by Laura James so it is not a pure autobiography.
The book is multidimensional: it's a biography, a "self-help" book, and
a sports book. All the color photos appear on eight glossy pages in
the middle.
Michelle poses a variety of questions to readers
about vision quests, self-discipline, perseverance, dedication, courage,
flexibility, patience, imagination, common sense, desire, sacrifice,
obsession, setbacks, motivation, challenges, plateaus, perspective, sparkle,
and winning and losing with style. These questions provide a framework
for providing information about Kwan's life. Interest in Michelle will
continue through the next Olympics and as long as Kwan skates on television.
Interest in the questions she poses about self are timeless.
Mary Ann Paulin; Director, Superiorland Preview
Center, Marquette, MI
Morrissey, Peter. THE YOUNG ICE SKATER. Photos by Andy Crawford.
Forward by Todd Eldredge. Young Enthusiast Series.
New York: DK, 1998.
40p. 0-7894-3422-9; hb., $15.95
98-11936 Gr. 3+ 796.91
An easy-to-read, how-to text is complimented with outstanding
pictorial works to entice anyone who has the slightest yearning to grow
up to be Kristi Yamaguchi or Todd Eldredge. This book will help fulfill
those dreams. Done in a double-page format, Morrissey introduces
the sport with a brief history, then continues on with essentials--i.e.
necessary equipment, warm-up exercies and the proper lacing of the boot.
Continuing on in a practical manner, he devotes space to fundamentals of
figure skating---first steps, skating forward and backward, jumps, spins,
turns and more. The attractive photos of young skaters of various ethnic
backgrounds, stand out on the white glossy page. Each photo is accompanied
with an explanation of what the skater is doing, step-by-step. A particularly
lively, helpful book for any beginning skater, a fun book for any interested
browser and an enticing book for any wannabee.
Patricia Fittantte, Children's Librarian,
Escanaba Public Library, Escanaba, MI
Wilkes, Debbi. THE FIGURE SKATING BOOK: A YOUNG PERSON'S GUIDE
TO FIGURE
SKATING. Illus. with photos.
Buffalo, NY: Firefly, 1999. 116p. Gr. 4+
796.91
This is a superbly comprehensive and appealing approach
to the world of figure skating. Wilkes, a professional skater and coach
for many years, created this instructional guide to help young people explore
and understand this sport of endurance and grace. Fully illustrated,
there are step-by-step diagrams and photographs in black and white that
explain in detail the mechanics of the many moves, jumps, spins and dances.
Wilkes also discusses choosing equipment and how to care for it. For the
serious skater she suggests how to choose a club and/or coach. This is an
excellent teaching aid and an ideal handbook for students of figure skating.
Patricia Fittante; Children's Librarian, Escanaba
Public Library, Escanaba, MI;
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796.962 HOCKEY A hockey fan has written this sports biography about
a very private athlete. Besides the biography itself, touches have
been added by the librarian author: a map of places mentioned in the book,
statistics for regular seasons and playoffs, career awards and accomplishments,
glossary, time line index, further reading, and resources including web sites.
Lazarus begins her authorized biography with Steve's skating debut at age
3 at a family outing. Steve, born in British Columbia, began playing
hockey at age five but he and his three brothers played other sports also.
Information about playing on hockey teams in his youth is included as well
as testimonials mentioning his "unselfishness when it came to helping teammates
score." The book includes living and playing in Ontario, being
drafted by the Detroit Red Wings, and winning the Stanley Cup that had eluded
Detroit for 42 years until 1997 and again in 1998. The information
about coaches, players, fans, and the superstar flow from beginning to end
aided by large print. Yzerman read biographies about hockey players
when he was a kid and young hockey fans will enjoy reading this biography
too. This book is a good addition to sports biography collections anywhere
but is essential where hockey is popular.
Mary Ann Paulin; Director, Superiorland Preview
Center, Marquette, MI 49855
Morrison, Scott, ed. WAYNE GRETZKY: THE GREAT GOODBY.
Illus with photos.
Toronto: Key Porter, 1999. 96p.
1-55263-099-4, pb. $14.00. 796.962 Gr. 3+
If your readers need Gretzky's final career
statistics (regular play, playoff, and all star), trophies, career
highlights, and NHL records, then your library needs this book.
There are color photos, on almost every page to celebrate the career of
"the great one." The readable text begins with Gretzky's early years,
glory days in Edmonton, trades to Los Angeles and St. Louis, and ends
with his last game for New York. Hockey fans of all ages will
enjoy this sports biography, it's a winner.
Mary Ann Paulin; Director, Superiorland
Preview Center, Marquette, MI
Wilson, Stacy. THE HOCKEY BOOK FOR GIRLS. Buffalo:
Kids Can, 2000. 39p.
1-55074-860-2; hb., $12.95
1-55074-719-3; pb., $6.95 Gr. 3-7 796.962
Although it has been played for over 100 years, women's
ice hockey took the spotlight when it was recognized as an Olympic event
in 1998. Stacy Wilson, like many girls, started playing on a boys'
team and has gone on to star on Canada's World Championship and Olympic teams.
She currently coaches a women's team at the college level. Her expertise
is apparent in this excellent instructional book. Chapter topics
include basic rules, proper equipment, training and skill building.
The book is comprehensive without being overly detailed. It closes
with profiles of star female players and the outlook for women's hockey.
Excellent photographs enhance the clear and informative text. "Expert
tips" and "try it" paragraphs encourage girls of every level of playing
ability to improve their game. Wilson has scored a winner with this
"must-read" for all girls interested in playing hockey.
Carolyn Anderson, L'Anse Public Library Board;
Superiorland Library Cooperative Board
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Acrylics complement the text in this picture book about
the first woman who swam the English Channel. Gertie, called Trudy,
was taught to swim by her father after nearly drowning in a pond.
At age 15 Trudy won her first big race, and at 16 Trudy was first woman
to swim 17 miles from Manhattan to NJ to beat the men's record. In
1924 she won 3 medals at the Olympics and by 1925 set 29 U.S. and world
records. In a storm, she became the first woman to swim the
channel and beat the male record. More information about Trudy is
given in the "Notes from the author" Which includes information
like why she was disqualified on her first channel swim. Purchase this
book where primary and intermediate biographies are needed.
Mary Ann Paulin; Director, Superiorland Preview
Center, Marquette, MI
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796.93 SKIING[ To the top of this page ] | [ To SPC Homepage ]
Demi tells how the Double Ninth Festival or Ch'ing
Yang began. This Chinese festival is celebrated on the 9th day of
the 9th month (Sept. 9) Many people purchased holy pictures from an
old painter in China and offered them to their gods in the temple and prayed
their wishes would come true. Often the pictures in the painting would
show what the person wanted, like a picture of a Peaceful Buddha for someone
who wanted peace or a picture of an abacus for someone who wanted money.
One day a woman wanted a dragon kite because it was the symbol of wealth,
wisdom power, and nobility and wanted it in kite form so she could fly
it into the sky to heaven. When people saw the boy become bigger,
stronger, richer, and nobler before their eyes, they also wanted their
pictures on kites. Nine bird representations on kites include
magpies to bring joy and fame and for nobility and honesty. Ten insects
on kites include crickets to bring music and song and a butterfly to symbolize
love. Ten reptiles, fish, and crustaceans include carp for abundance
and frogs for long life and joy. Eleven animals on kites include pandas
for happiness and tigers for courage. Eleven Buddhas and gods on kites
include Vairochana, the teaching Buddha, or Akshobhya for wisdom and overcoming
anger. Three flowers and five symbols on kites include T'ai Chi for
creativity and harmony in the universe, Fu for happiness, and Shou
for longevity Sometimes people cut kite strings to send bad luck away.
Four pages include 12 steps for making a kite 4 pages and 12 steps.
This is more than a kite book and more than a holiday book. Share this book in March or when studying Buddhist
countries in social studies. Demi makes it easy to understand
an Eastern philosophy. Highly Recommended for school and public libraries.
Mary Ann Paulin; Director, Superiorland Preview
Center, Marquette, MI
Pawson, Des. THE HANDBOOK OF KNOTS: A STEP-BY-STEP GUIDE TO TYING
AND USING MORE THAN 100 KNOTS.
Illus. with photos. New York: DK, 1998.
160p. 0-7894-2395-2; pb., $16.95.
97-38707 Gr. 4-12+ 623.88
Using different colors of line to clearly show
the exact way to tie the knots, the photos and the short, but clear directions
make the book very useful. The book is well laid out and the
format is inviting for anyone interested in knot typing, even "eager" beginners
and intermediates. The author explaines which knot to use for specific
tasks. This book is of interest to sailors, boaters, hikers,
rock and mountain climbers, scouts, etc. It could also be used
as a text for Coast Guard auxiliary safe boating classes or for teaching survival
skills making it especially valuable to libraries near lakes and wilderness
areas. Even the size of the book is a plus, making it portable.
Highly recommended.
Penny Pederson, teacher and librarian, Graveraet
Middle School, Marquette, MI
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