Mo Jackson Books

Penguin Random House numbers the eight sports stories, beginning with Don't Throw It to Mo! and ending with Get on the Ice, Mo! Each book is a complete game-day story, so children can also start with the sport that interests them most.

Sources: Penguin Random House: Mo Jackson series.

Controlled vocabulary, short sentences, repetition, and supportive illustrations make these useful for developing independent readers. Mo succeeds through practice, attention, teamwork, and persistence rather than suddenly becoming the strongest athlete.

Rivals sometimes underestimate or tease Mo because he is small, and games bring ordinary disappointment and pressure. Coaches, teammates, and family members are encouraging, injuries are not a focus, and each story ends on an affirming note.