Books About Sports · 3,154 titles considered

The Best Sports Books for Kids

Looking for excellent children's books about sports? 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.

The Shortlist

Our 10 Favorite Books About Sports

Sale price

$1597

Chapter Book · Ages 9–12 · 2020

Black Brother, Black Brother

By Jewell Parker Rhodes

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?

Sale price

$1797

Chapter Book · Ages 11–15

The Crossover

By Kwame Alexander · Book #1 in the The Crossover series

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

Newbery Medal (2015)Coretta Scott King Honor (2015)

240 pages· 16,738 words· Est. 1.5 hour read

4.2/5 Goodreads · 71,496 ratings

$18.99Save 5%

Sale price

$1797

Chapter Book · Ages 10–12 · 2017

The Playbook

By Kwame Alexander, Thai Neave (Illustrator)

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

176 pages· 8,478 words· Est. 57 min read

4.2/5 Goodreads · 3,099 ratings

$18.99Save 5%

Summary: In 'The Playbook,' explore life's game with Kwame Alexander's poetic guidance. Dive into stories of triumph and wisdom from icons like Serena Williams and Nelson Mandela. What if you could create your own rules to achieve your dreams? This motivational journey offers inspiration for anyone seeking encouragement, featuring insights from athletes and leaders who have overcome obstacles. Will you take the shot and soar?

Sale price

$1597

Chapter Book · Ages 8–12 · 2020

Becoming Muhammad Ali

By James Patterson, Kwame Alexander, Dawud Anyabwile (Illustrator)

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

320 pages· 20,312 words· Est. 3 hour read

4.2/5 Goodreads · 5,095 ratings

$16.99Save 6%

Summary: Before he became Muhammad Ali, Cassius Clay was a young boy facing everyday struggles. In Louisville, Kentucky, a stolen bike set him on a path to boxing greatness. At twelve, he began training, soon winning his first Golden Gloves bout. This vivid portrayal by Kwame Alexander and James Patterson captures his early life, friendships, and the racism he faced, revealing the budding charisma of a future icon. How did these experiences shape the legend we know today?

Sale price

$574

Picture Book · Ages 4–6 · 1976

The Littlest Leaguer

By Syd Hoff · I Can Read series

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

48 pages· 881 words· Est. 7 min read-aloud

3.7/5 Goodreads · 164 ratings

$5.99Save 4%

Summary: Harold, the smallest player in little league, struggles to keep up with the game. Always benched, he dreams of proving himself. When an important game arrives, Harold's moment to show that size doesn't define skill finally comes. Can he turn his disadvantage into an unexpected triumph?

Sale price

$574

Chapter Book · Ages 7–9 · 1987

Soccer Sam

By Jean Marzollo

A cousin bridges language gaps through soccer.

48 pages· 1,630 words· Est. 19 min read

3.6/5 Goodreads · 77 ratings

$5.99Save 4%

Summary: Sam's Mexican cousin visits, facing a language barrier in a new environment. Through the universal language of soccer, he connects with new friends, transforming challenges into bonds. Can sports unite them all?

Sale price

$1498

Picture Book · Ages 7–10 · 2002

The Real Slam Dunk

Book #1 in the The Real Slam Dunk series

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

80 pages· 6,110 words· Est. 47 min read-aloud

3.9/5 Goodreads · 89 ratings

$15.99Save 6%

Summary: Marcus dreams of becoming a basketball star, but when he meets his idol, Jason Carter, he hears unexpected advice that shakes his world. As Marcus grapples with the idea that life might require more than just basketball skills, he faces a pivotal choice. Will he embrace the challenge and redefine his dreams, or cling to his old beliefs? This journey of self-discovery and growth will reveal what it truly means to achieve a slam dunk in life. Join Marcus as he learns that champions need more than just talent on the court.

Sale price

$759

Picture Book · Ages 4–8 · 2007

Casey Back at Bat

By Dan Gutman, Steve Johnson (Illustrator), Lou Fancher (Illustrator)

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

32 pages· 739 words· Est. 6 min read-aloud

7.0/7 Bookroo experts·3.6/5 Goodreads · 147 ratings

$7.99Save 5%

Summary: Casey, the once-failed sports hero, faces the ultimate test as he steps up to the plate again. With Mudville's hopes resting on his shoulders, can he finally deliver the victory they crave? In this humorous sequel to the classic poem, Casey's redemption is on the line. Will he triumph or repeat his past mistakes? The stakes are high, and the crowd is watching. Discover if Casey can turn his luck around and bring joy back to Mudville in this entertaining tale of second chances.

Sale price

$1697

Picture Book · Ages 6–10 · 2021

Sakamoto's Swim Club

By Julie Abery, Chris Sasaki (Illustrator)

A teacher transforms plantation kids into Olympic swimmers using innovative techniques.

40 pages· 165 words· Est. 2 min read-aloud

6.3/7 Bookroo experts·4.2/5 Goodreads · 487 ratings

$17.99Save 6%

Summary: In 1930s Maui, science teacher Soichi Sakamoto turns irrigation ditches into training grounds, coaching plantation children to Olympic glory. Can his unique methods and their determination defy the odds?

Sale price

$1899

Picture Book · Ages 4–8 · 2012

Dream Big

By Deloris Jordan, Barry Root (Illustrator)

A young dreamer aims for Olympic gold with perseverance.

32 pages· 896 words· Est. 7 min read-aloud

5.8/7 Bookroo experts·4.1/5 Goodreads · 235 ratings

$19.99Save 5%

Summary: Before becoming a basketball legend, young Michael Jordan dreamed of Olympic gold. This heartwarming tale, penned by his mother, reveals his childhood journey of dedication and values. Will his dreams soar?

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Browse by age

Sports Board Books for Babies & Toddlers

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

Sale price

$799

This Little Trailblazer

Ages 3–5 · 2017

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

Sale price

$799

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.

Sale price

$899

I Can Play

Ages 2–6 · 2015

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

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.

Sale price

$1599

Pop-up Ocean

Ages 0–3 · 2018

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

Sale price

$1199

All Aboard! Pacific Northwest

Ages 0–3 · 2017

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

Sale price

$799

Tumble Bumble

Ages 0–4 · 1992

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

Sale price

$999

Ali

Ages 0–3 · 2018

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

Sale price

$1599

Bruce Lee

Ages 1–3 · 2019

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

Sale price

$799

Peek-A-Bruce

Ages 0–3 · 2019

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

Sale price

$799

Peekaboo Morning

Ages 0–2 · 2002

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

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 board books

Browse by age

Sports Picture Books

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

Graphic Nov.

Sale price

$599

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.

Sale price

$599

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.

Sale price

$599

Don't Throw It to Mo!

Ages 6–8 · 2015

A young football player proves himself despite his small size

Sale price

$599

Digger the Dinosaur

Ages 4–6 · 2011

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

Sale price

$599

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.

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.

Sale price

$599

Gilbert, the Surfer Dude

Ages 4–8 · 2009

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

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.

Sale price

$1999

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?

Sale price

$1999

L Is for London

Ages 4–8 · 2018

Explore London's iconic sights from A to Z with hidden surprises.

Sale price

$1999

Fox and the Bike Ride

Ages 4–8 · 2017

Fox turns a dull bike ride into a wild adventure with unexpected twists.

Sale price

$1495

Go, Pea, Go!

Ages 3–6 · 2015

Pea Junior races to the Pea Bowl with support from family and friends.

View all sports picture books

Browse by age

Sports Chapter Books & Middle Grade

Longer stories about sports for developing and independent readers.

Sale price

$799

Ghost

Ages 10–13 · 2016

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

Graphic Nov.

Sale price

$2399

New Kid

Ages 8–12 · 2019

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

Sale price

$1899

Furia

Ages 14–18 · 2020

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

Sale price

$1999

Maybe He Just Likes You

Ages 9–13 · 2019

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

Sale price

$1699

Unsettled

Ages 9–12 · 2021

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

Sale price

$799

Saving the Team

Ages 7–12 · 2013

Can Devin transform a struggling soccer team into champions?

Sale price

$1699

Rebound

Ages 10–12 · 2018

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

Sale price

$1699

The Eleventh Trade

Ages 10–14 · 2018

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

Sale price

$899

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

Graphic Nov.

Sale price

$2099

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.

Sale price

$1599

My Year in the Middle

Ages 8–12 · 2018

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

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.

View all sports chapter books

Keep exploring

Books about basketball Books about prejudice and racism Books about sports and recreation Books about athletes Books about boxing Books about bullying Books about coming of age Books about encouragement

Our 10 Favorite Books About Sports

Great books, picked for their age.

Sports Board Books for Babies & Toddlers

Sports Picture Books

Sports Chapter Books & Middle Grade

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