Books About Sports · 428 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 Award (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

$1599

Wilma Rudolph

Ages 0–3 · 2019

Overcome polio to become an Olympic champion. Discover Wilma Rudolph's inspiring journey.

Inspirational Sports Stories for Young Readers

Sale price

$1099

Inspirational Sports Stories for Young Readers

Ages 1–12 · 2022

Discover athletes' journeys from struggle to triumph across diverse sports.

Sale price

$599

Race Day

Ages 2–5 · 2010

Engines roar, tires screech, and the race to the finish line begins. Who will claim victory?

View all sports board books

Browse by age

Sports Picture Books

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

Sale price

$2260

Goodnight Football

Ages 5–8 · 2014

A child bids goodnight to the thrilling world of football.

Sale price

$1599

Simone Biles

Ages 6–8 · 2024

A gymnast's journey from foster care to Olympic glory, facing challenges and advocating for mental health.

Sale price

$599

The Berenstain Bears: God Loves You!

Ages 4–8 · 2008

Two bear siblings try out for their school's play and basketball team, but things don't go as planned.

Sale price

$1999

The Floating Field

Ages 7–10 · 2021

Thai boys defy odds to play soccer on a floating field in a stilt village.

Graphic Nov.

Sale price

$1699

Dewdrop

Ages 5–8 · 2020

An axolotl helps friends find joy in their talents at a sports fair.

Sale price

$1899

There Goes Patti McGee!

Ages 4–8 · 2021

Discover the groundbreaking journey of the first female skateboard champion.

Sale price

$1599

Jesse Owens

Ages 4–7 · 2020

A young athlete defies racism and sets world records at the 1936 Olympics.

Sale price

$1799

She Persisted in Sports

Ages 4–8 · 2020

Discover women athletes who defied the odds and achieved greatness through persistence.

Sale price

$1099

Watch Me Throw the Ball!

Ages 4–8 · 2009

A serious elephant and a playful pig clash over a simple game of catch.

Sale price

$1595

The Boy Who Never Gave Up

Ages 5–8 · 2016

A boy defies the odds to become an NBA legend.

Sale price

$999

Tacky and the Winter Games

Ages 4–7 · 2005

Can Tacky's antics lead Team Nice Icy Land to Winter Games glory or disaster?

Sale price

$1799

Max and Marla

Ages 3–5 · 2015

Two friends face sledding challenges, discovering joy in friendship over victory.

View all sports picture books

Browse by age

Sports Chapter Books & Middle Grade

Longer stories about sports for developing and independent readers.

Sale price

$999

The Academy V

Ages 7–13 · 2026

A young soccer star must unite a struggling team to win the U15 Cup of Nations.

Sale price

$1400

Shaken

Ages 10–+ · 2017

Discover your true purpose beyond life's highs and lows.

Sale price

$1899

Home for the Holidays

Ages 9–12 · 2011

Holiday plans unravel as friends face unexpected challenges. Can they find their festive spirit?

Sale price

$999

Usain Bolt

2024

Discover the journey of a boy who became the fastest man alive.

Graphic Nov.

Sale price

$1199

Haikyu!! (Volume 2)

Ages 14–17 · 2012

Can a short player with unmatched jumping skills become a volleyball legend?

Binding 13

Ages 16–18 · 2018

A rugby star and a troubled girl collide, risking everything for a chance at love.

Sale price

$1600

Gym Candy

Ages 12–+ · 2007

A young athlete risks everything for a competitive edge.

Sale price

$1699

The Perfect Star

Ages 9–12 · 2019

Middle schoolers face family upheavals, friendship rifts, and hidden talents in a year of unforgettable challenges.

Sale price

$1699

Soccerland

Ages 12–17 · 2010

A young soccer player faces fierce competition and personal challenges to fulfill her dream of joining the national team.

Sale price

$1799

Change Up

Ages 8–11 · 2016

Derek's baseball dreams face unexpected challenges when his dad becomes coach. Can he adapt and lead his team to victory?

Sale price

$999

Rising Above

Ages 10–14 · 2017

Athletes defy odds, proving perseverance and passion lead to greatness.

Sale price

$1699

Rivals

Ages 8–12 · 2010

A young athlete uncovers a dangerous secret at a high-stakes baseball tournament.

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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