The Basket Ball

 by Esme Raji Codell

Summary: After the boys won't let her join in their basketball game, Lulu decides to host a Basket Ball, where girls from all over come to participate and, with Lulu as captain, end up forming a special team.

This is fantastic book for discussing gender roles. I admire Lulu’s personality. I am happy that authors, such as Codell, have recently tackled stereotypical gender roles by showing that some girls and boys like a little bit of “girlish” AND “boyish” activities. As a child, I felt we were taught that some girls do boyish things and some girls do boyish things. Teachers told us that this is okay and we were to accept that. No one discussed that a girl, like Lulu, can be a basketball star and enjoy sequins. This story is in rhyme with many cute puns and is an ideal read aloud. However, I do not recommend reading this book to very young children because of the text’s advanced basketball vocabulary. There is a glossary at the end of the book with such terms that may be helpful to elementary children that read this book independently.

Interest Level: grades k-3
Reading Level: grade 3

 

Home Field Advantage

  by Justin Tuck

Summary: New York Giants defensive end Justin Tuck observes that growing up with five sisters helped make him tough, and he tells of when twins Christale and Tiffany gave him an unforgettable haircut.

This is a mediocre story, but it is fun to see that a huge NFL star was once just a younger brother whose five older sisters made him tough. This book is most appropriate for younger children but may be enjoyed by older children who are fans of Justin Tuck.  

Interest Level:grades k-6

Reading Level: grade 2

The Jellybeans and the Big Camp Kickoff



The Jellybeans and the Big Camp Kickoff

by Laura Numeroff

Summary: When four friends with different talents and abilities go to summer camp together, they use their strengths to make camp fun for all.

This book is part of a series about four friends. I like the theme that all friends have different talents and are able to apply their talents in different ways. Also, if something you love is not available, try to make it available by starting a team, club, etc.

Interest Level: ages 2-4, grades K-3
Reading Level: grade 3

Madlenka Soccer Star

Madlenka Soccer Star

by Peter Sís

Summary: Madlenka plays soccer in her city neighborhood--with the mailbox, a dog, a parking meter, and some cats.

This story is mediocre, but may be of interest to young soccer players and fans. What I like most about the book is the notes in the back which give a history of soccer.

Interest Level: grades K-3
Reading Level: grade 2

Soccer Hour

Soccer Hour

by Carol Nevius

Summary: Pictures and rhyming text describe the drills and scrimmages of a team at soccer practice.

This is a spectacular read for soccer lovers! I feel it is most appropriate to read to a child one-on-one or as a quick fun read for older children.

Interest Level: grades k-3, grades 4-6
Reading Level: grade 2