This month, ReaderKidZ is talking about sports books for the K-5 reader and we’re thrilled to point readers to a terrific Horn Book article by Dean Schneider. Though not strictly about books for the elementary student, you’ll notice a mention of this month’s Author-In-Residence, Rich Wallace, as well as other important observations about – to… Read more »
January 2011
Athletes With the Courage to Excel
Many world-recognized athletes have had to overcome prejudice and other obstacles as children. Swimming pools only open to them one day a week. Tennis courts declared off limits. Sports leagues closed to them because of their color. Barriers of every kind. The following books tell the stories of several of them in ways young readers… Read more »
Arthur Ashe Remembered
To add further depth of appreciation for Arthur Ashe’s astonishing life achievements peruse the richness presented in the award winning website ArthurAshe.org. One of the many interesting aspects of this site is a video featuring Arthur speaking about the impact of books and education on his own life, including the importance of finishing school and maintaining… Read more »
SIXTEEN YEARS IN SIXTEEN SECONDS:THE SAMMY LEE STORY by Paula Yoo
Access the link below to view a video featuring author Paula Yoo discussing the inspiration behind Sixteen Years in Sixteen Seconds: The Sammy Lee Story. Learn about the story behind the diving legend Sammy Lee, how he overcame the limitations of racial prejudice, and how instrumental his father’s encouragement was in his ultimate Olympic success…. Read more »
PELE, KING OF FOOTBALL by Monica Brown
Pelé, soccer legend, is not only known for being the first man to score 1000 goals in his lifetime and for leading Brazil to three World Cup Championships, but also for his devotion to good sportsmanship and commitment to team spirit. Pelé, King of Football is a inspirational celebration of these valuable attributes, Pele’s personal achievements, and more…. Read more »
Rich Wallace, Author-In-Residence
The flap copy on the back of each book in the KICKERS series announces: “Read them all!” And yes, we agree. You surely must! Each of the books – The Ball Hogs, Fake Out, Benched, and Game Day Jitters – is packed with fast-paced action and the ups and downs of learning how to be… Read more »
Rich’s Story
I grew up in northern New Jersey in a very busy household. I had three older brothers, two younger sisters, and a little brother. We were all very involved in activities like Scouts, music (not me), art lessons, and especially sports, so my mother cooked a lot of meals in shifts because some of us… Read more »
