The Basket Counts

The Basket Counts (2000) by Arnold adoff and illustrated by Michael Weaver. 47 pages.

ISBN: 0-689-80108-4

A collection of poetry about playing basketball. Text formatting is playful, enhancing meaning. Colorful expressive llustrations show teens, girls and boys, of various ethnicities playing basketball. Games take place in urban street settings. Expressive and appealing for tweens.

Skateboarding

Skateboarding (2003) by Ben Powell. 32 pages.
ISBN: 0-8225-1241-6

Little bits of history, facts and tips are provided on each page; covering tricks, surfaces, techniques, competitions and legends. Text is simple and accessible, presented in short blurbs which tweens will find attractive. Photos and graphics are full of action. All pictures are of boys, except one. A list of websites and books for further reading is provided.

Discover the exciting world of skateboarding. Great book for beginning and advanced skateboarders, as well as those interested in just learning more about the sport. Appropriate for 10 to 13 year olds.

Soccer Encyclopedia

The Kingfisher Soccer Encyclopedia (2006) by Clive Gifford. 144 pages.

ISBN: 0-7534-5928-0

Colorful, visually attractive book with interesting photos of soccer players and graphics of game actions. Information is presented in accessible text, covering playing the game, soccer legends and great teams, mental tactics, significant competitions, and soccer facts. Includes a glossary and weblinks as well.

An interesting and informative book for those who enjoy soccer as well as those who may have a fleeting interest. Appealing format (and timely read for the Summer World Cup) for 10 to 13 year olds.