Books About Sports And Recreation · 3,095 titles considered

The Best Sports And Recreation Books for Kids

By the Bookroo Editors

Looking for excellent children's books about sports and recreation? This collection brings together Bookroo's highest-rated and most useful picks in one place.

Start with our editorial favorites, then browse recommendations organized by reading stage to find the right book for your reader.

Furia
Unsettled
Rebound
The Shortlist

Our 10 Favorite Books About Sports And Recreation

Sale price
$759
Chapter Book · Ages 10–13 · 2016

Ghost

By Jason Reynolds · Book #1 in the Track series

A young sprinter must outrun his past to achieve greatness on the track team.

208 pages· 39,201 words· Est. 4.5 hour read
6.0/7 Bookroo experts·4.2/5 Goodreads · 53,925 ratings
$7.99Save 5%
Summary: Castle 'Ghost' Cranshaw dreams of being the fastest sprinter on his middle school track team, but his troubled past threatens to derail him. Haunted by memories of fleeing his violent father, Ghost struggles to channel his raw talent under the guidance of a former Olympic coach. As he races toward the Junior Olympics, Ghost must confront his fears and prove to himself that he can overcome his history. Will he find the strength to stay on track, or will his past catch up to him? Discover the electrifying journey of a boy running for more than just victory.
Graphic Nov.
Sale price
$2279
Chapter Book · Ages 8–12 · 2019

New Kid

By Jerry Craft · Book #1 in the New Kid series

A young artist navigates two worlds, struggling to fit in at a new school.

Newbery Medal (2020)Coretta Scott King Award (2020)
249 pages· 14,169 words· Est. 2.5 hour read
5.8/7 Bookroo experts·4.1/5 Goodreads · 62,474 ratings
$23.99Save 5%
Summary: Seventh grader Jordan Banks dreams of art school, but his parents send him to a prestigious academy where he's one of the few kids of color. Torn between his diverse neighborhood and the elite school, Jordan must find a way to fit in without losing himself. Can he balance these worlds and stay true to his passion for drawing? Discover the challenges and triumphs of a young artist caught between two cultures in this compelling graphic novel.
Chapter Book · Ages 14–18 · 2020

Furia

A young soccer star must defy family expectations to chase her dreams and navigate a complicated love.

368 pages· 74,369 words· Est. 7 hour read
4.1/5 Goodreads · 15,602 ratings
$18.99Save 5%
Summary: In Rosario, Argentina, Camila Hassan leads a double life. At home, she's a dutiful daughter under her father's strict rule. On the soccer field, she's La Furia, a rising star. When her team qualifies for a major tournament, Camila faces a dilemma: pursue her dreams or adhere to her family's expectations. Complicating matters, her former love, now an international soccer sensation, returns. As Camila battles for her future, she must confront secrets and decide if love or ambition will guide her path. Will she break free and claim her destiny, or will her dreams remain out of reach?
Chapter Book · Ages 9–13 · 2019

Maybe He Just Likes You

A girl faces unwanted attention at school and learns to stand up for herself.

304 pages· 46,516 words· Est. 5 hour read
4.2/5 Goodreads · 8,566 ratings
$19.99Save 5%
Summary: Seventh-grader Mila is confused when friendly gestures from classmates turn uncomfortable. As unwanted attention escalates, she questions what it means to be respected. Finding strength in karate, Mila learns to assert herself and discovers her voice. Can she navigate the complexities of middle school and stand up for what's right?
Chapter Book · Ages 9–12 · 2021

Unsettled

A girl navigates a new life in America, facing cultural challenges and sibling rivalry in her quest for belonging.

352 pages
4.2/5 Goodreads · 1,802 ratings
$16.99Save 6%
Summary: Nurah moves from Karachi to Georgia, struggling to fit in with her accent and attire. In the pool, she finds solace and ambition, aiming to outshine her brother, Owais. But a moment of betrayal alters their paths. As Nurah battles bullies and self-doubt, she discovers her strength and the courage to stand up for herself. Will she find her place in this unfamiliar world, or will her choices haunt her? Dive into this heartfelt tale of family, identity, and the quest for belonging.
Chapter Book · Ages 7–12 · 2013

Saving the Team

Can Devin transform a struggling soccer team into champions?

192 pages
4.3/5 Goodreads · 996 ratings
$7.99Save 5%
Summary: Twelve-year-old Devin moves to California, leaving behind her chance to be soccer captain. Facing a disorganized team and indifferent coach, she befriends Jessi, Zoe, and Emma. Together, can they revive the Kentville Kangaroos and prove their potential on the field?
Chapter Book · Ages 9–12 · 2020

Black Brother, Black Brother

A boy battles racism and injustice through fencing, seeking redemption and belonging.

240 pages· 29,078 words· Est. 3 hour read
4.2/5 Goodreads · 7,903 ratings
$16.99Save 6%
Summary: Twelve-year-old Donte, dubbed "Black Brother" at Middlefield Prep, faces bullying and racism. Framed and arrested, he finds hope in fencing with former Olympian Arden Jones. As he trains to defeat his tormentor, Donte confronts systemic injustice and discovers his own strength. Can he reclaim his identity and find justice?
Chapter Book · Ages 11–15

The Crossover

A young basketball player navigates his relationships with his family and friends while learning valuable life lessons on and off the court

240 pages· 16,738 words· Est. 1.5 hour read
4.2/5 Goodreads · 71,496 ratings
$18.99Save 5%
Chapter Book · Ages 10–12 · 2018

Rebound

A summer with grandparents changes young Charlie's life through basketball and family secrets.

416 pages· 27,564 words· Est. 3 hour read
4.3/5 Goodreads · 14,361 ratings
$16.99Save 6%
Summary: Young Charlie Bell, sent to his grandparents for the summer, discovers basketball and unravels family secrets. As he navigates this pivotal time, will he find his path to becoming the legend his sons admire? Experience the rhythm and impact of a life-changing summer in this novel in verse.
Chapter Book · Ages 10–14 · 2018

The Eleventh Trade

A boy must trade up from a keychain to reclaim his grandfather's stolen instrument.

304 pages· 53,985 words· Est. 6 hour read
4.4/5 Goodreads · 376 ratings
$16.99Save 6%
Summary: Sami, a young refugee, faces a daunting challenge when his grandfather's cherished rebab is stolen. With only a keychain and a dream, he embarks on a daring quest to trade up to $700. Each trade brings him closer to reclaiming the instrument and finding his place in a new world. Can Sami navigate the complexities of friendship and fear to achieve the impossible? Discover the heartwarming journey of resilience and hope in 'The Eleventh Trade.'
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Browse by age

Sports And Recreation Board Books for Babies & Toddlers

Sturdy, inviting books about sports and recreation for the youngest readers and listeners.

This Little Trailblazer

Ages 3–5 · 2017

Discover ten women who changed history with their courage and vision.

The Whale in My Swimming Pool

Ages 2–6 · 2015

A boy finds a whale in his pool and must find a way to share the space.

I Can Play

Ages 2–6 · 2015

Wiggle fingers to make athletes move and unite as a team.

Let's Find Momo Outdoors!
Sale price
$999

Let's Find Momo Outdoors!

Ages 2–5 · 2021

Join a playful adventure to find hidden surprises in nature with a curious dog and his puppy friend.

Pop-up Ocean

Ages 0–3 · 2018

Explore the ocean's wonders in a vibrant pop-up adventure.

All Aboard! Pacific Northwest
Sale price
$1199

All Aboard! Pacific Northwest

Ages 0–3 · 2017

Embark on a train journey through the Pacific Northwest's wonders.

Tumble Bumble

Ages 0–4 · 1992

A tiny bug's walk leads to unexpected friendships with various creatures.

Ali

Ages 0–3 · 2018

Discover how a stolen bike led to a boxing legend's rise.

Bruce Lee

Ages 1–3 · 2019

A young martial artist defies Hollywood's barriers to become a film legend.

Peek-A-Bruce

Ages 0–3 · 2019

Goslings search for their elusive bear friend. Can they find him?

Peekaboo Morning

Ages 0–2 · 2002

Join a toddler's peekaboo adventure. Who's hiding next?

Ruby & Rufus
Sale price
$999

Ruby & Rufus

Ages 0–3 · 2019

Goslings face a frozen pond. Is it a new adventure or a challenge?

View all sports and recreation board books
Browse by age

Sports And Recreation Picture Books

Illustrated read-alouds about sports and recreation for preschool and elementary-age readers.

Do You Like My Bike?

Ages 4–6 · 2019

A young boy tries to find his lost bike helmet and then goes for a bike ride with his friend.

Pete the Cat: Pete at the Beach

Ages 4–8 · 2013

A cat named Pete spends the day at the beach with his mom and brother, trying surfing for the first time.

Don't Throw It to Mo!

Ages 6–8 · 2015

A young football player proves himself despite his small size

Digger the Dinosaur

Ages 4–6 · 2011

Can Digger clean his room in time to play baseball with friends?

The Camping Trip

Ages 5–7 · 2014

A young girl goes on a camping trip with her friends and their ponies, learning about responsibility and friendship along the way.

Flat Stanley at Bat
Sale price
$599

Flat Stanley at Bat

Ages 4–8 · 2012

A boy who has been flat since a bulletin board fell on him tries out for a baseball team.

The Littlest Leaguer

Ages 4–6 · 1976

A young boy helps his team win a baseball game despite his small size.

The Real Slam Dunk

Ages 7–10 · 2002

A young boy's basketball dreams are challenged by unexpected advice from his hero.

Gilbert, the Surfer Dude

Ages 4–8 · 2009

A beach day turns tricky when fears and forgotten suits collide.

Pinkalicious: Pink around the Rink
Sale price
$499

Pinkalicious: Pink around the Rink

Ages 4–8 · 2010

A young girl gets a new pair of ice skates and learns to love them despite their initial imperfections.

Casey Back at Bat

Ages 4–8 · 2007

A failed sports hero gets a second chance to redeem himself. Can he succeed?

The Grizzly Bear Who Lost His GRRRRR!

Ages 4–8 · 2015

A champion bear loses his growl before a big contest. Can he find it in time?

Browse by age

Sports And Recreation Chapter Books & Middle Grade

Longer stories about sports and recreation for developing and independent readers.

The Playbook
Sale price
$1899

The Playbook

Ages 10–12 · 2017

Discover life's rules through inspiring stories and wisdom from iconic figures.

Becoming Muhammad Ali

Ages 8–12 · 2020

Discover how a stolen bike led a young Cassius Clay to become Muhammad Ali.

Honus & Me

Ages 8–12 · 1997

A boy discovers a baseball card that lets him time travel to meet legendary players.

The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-Time Indian

Ages 12–18 · 2007

A Native American teen seeks a new future at an all-white high school.

My Year in the Middle

Ages 8–12 · 2018

In 1970 Alabama, Lu's running talent challenges racial divides and tests her friendships.

Stone Fox
Sale price
$899

Stone Fox

Ages 8–12 · 1980

A boy races to save his farm, facing an undefeated rival in a high-stakes dogsled race.

The Fenway Foul-Up

Ages 6–9 · 2011

A baseball bat is stolen from a famous player and two kids try to solve the mystery.

Lola Levine Is Not Mean!

Ages 6–10 · 2015

A young girl navigates the challenges of second grade, friendships, and family while pursuing her passion for soccer

The Tail of Emily Windsnap

Ages 8–12 · 2003

A girl discovers she's half mermaid and dives into a quest to find her father.

Maniac Magee

Ages 9–13 · 1990

A boy's legendary runs challenge a racially divided town's boundaries.

Forever...
Sale price
$1199

Forever...

Ages 14–18 · 1975

Katherine questions love's permanence when summer brings new feelings.

Soccer Sam
Sale price
$599

Soccer Sam

Ages 7–9 · 1987

A cousin bridges language gaps through soccer.

Keep exploring
Books about basketballBooks about family lifeBooks about father-son relationshipsBooks about prejudice and racismBooks about athletesBooks about bullyingBooks about coming of ageBooks about discrimination

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