World of Sports

Even the youngest basketball fans can name some of the greats of this sport: Michael Jordan, Stephen Curry, and Lebron James may come to mind. But true students of the sport know that a single player can't win it all-it takes a team. This motivating book takes readers off the bench and onto the court. They'll learn the positions of the game and what it takes to be the victors. At-level text, including essential sports vocabulary, fun fact boxes, and thrilling photographs will engage all levels of readers-and inspire them to gather their friends for a game!

From Europe's rugby and soccer evolved a truly American sport. Played across the United States at parks, schools, universities, and in stadiums, football is as much a part of America's iconographic experience as apple pie. Emerging from college campuses, it has blossomed to become a popular form of recreation throughout the country, as well as a professional-sports juggernaut. This detailed narrative examines the history of gridiron football, including the teams and players that have helped make it a national obsession.

Integral to the consciousness of the American people, the sport of baseball has become a steadfast institution in a nation whose identity is constantly evolving. Although the game has undergone its own share of changes since it first took center stage, baseball has maintained an unwavering devotion among fans and players alike. This comprehensive volume details the rules of baseball, introduces some of its key personalities, and examines the historical role of the game as it changed both the recreational and social landscapes of the country.

Despite its American origins, the fast-paced and often acrobatic game of basketball commands the attention of audiences around the world. The sport's seeming simplicity-put the ball in the basket-is delightfully offset by the complexity of the athleticism and strategy required to be successful at the game. Recounting the evolution of basketball and profiling greats from George Mikan to Larry Bird, Michael Jordan, and beyond, this gripping volume examines the story of a game that continues to dazzle American and global audiences alike.

Although it assumes different monikers in various parts of the world and has appeared in various incarnations over time, the game of soccer has retained a great deal of its original character. While it is ostensibly simple in terms of equipment and rules, soccer has inspired skill, strategy, and pure athleticism that have allowed the professional sport to evolve. The history of soccer and the biographies of game-changing players who have kept fans riveted game after game are chronicled in this lively volume.

Soccer is one of the first sports that young athletes try-and one that many develop a passion for over their lifetime. This "beautiful game" isn't about individuals but about team effort. Readers of this informative and inspiring book will gain an appreciation for the extraordinary athleticism that each soccer position demands and learn what it takes for a team to succeed. Stunning, bright photographs and fascinating fact boxes add to the volume's winning design, sure to capture the interest of readers of all levels.

Football is fast overtaking baseball as the most popular sport in the United States. The Super Bowl is often the most-watched TV event of the year, a game that even casual fans believe is a must-see. Readers of this informative volume will learn what makes this sport so exciting, including the different positions, the features of the field, and the unique rules and plays that make it fascinating to so many. Action photographs of game play, interesting fact boxes, and an eye-catching design will interest readers of all levels.

Baseball may be America's pastime, but many people don't know a fly ball (a ball hit into the air) from a beanball (a ball thrown at a hitter's head!). Watching this historic sport gets even more fascinating with a bit of knowledge about the basics. This vibrant volume takes readers on the field and shows them the positions and the rules that make baseball such an exciting and iconic game. At-level text, including essential sports vocabulary, fun fact boxes, and thrilling photographs will engage fans and future pro players alike.