Middle school is a crucial time for students to develop a love for reading, and middle-grade sports fiction can be a fantastic way to capture their interest. Here's a list of engaging sports books tailored for middle schoolers:
"The Crossover" by Kwame Alexander:
This novel-in-verse follows the story of basketball-playing twins, Josh and Jordan Bell. It combines poetry and sports, making it an accessible and exciting read for middle schoolers.
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"Heat" by Mike Lupica:
Lupica, a prolific sports writer, delivers a captivating story about a young Cuban immigrant with a baseball talent. "Heat" explores themes of friendship, family, and pursuing one's dreams.
"Ghost" by Jason Reynolds:
The first book in the "Track" series, "Ghost" introduces readers to a young sprinter named Castle Cranshaw. It explores his struggles and triumphs as he joins a track team and finds purpose in running.
"Hoop Genius: How a Desperate Teacher and a Rowdy Gym Class Invented Basketball" by John Coy:
This non-fiction book introduces middle schoolers to the origin story of basketball. It combines history with a compelling narrative, making it an informative and entertaining choice.
"Travel Team" by Mike Lupica:
Lupica makes another appearance on the list with this novel about a young basketball player, Danny Walker, who faces challenges when he is cut from his town's travel team. It's a tale of resilience and determination.
"The Underdogs" by Mike Lupica:
Lupica strikes again with a heartwarming story of a soccer team overcoming odds. This book combines sports action with themes of teamwork, friendship, and self-discovery.
"Friday Night Lights for Kids: A Town, a Team, and a Dream" by H.G. Bissinger and Various Authors:
Inspired by the classic "Friday Night Lights," this adaptation for younger readers explores the impact of high school football on a small town. It's a compelling narrative with powerful life lessons.