Jody just can't bring himself to throw hard, so the ball usually falls short of its mark. Taunts of "catcher's got a glass arm" echo in his ears. Then injury is added to insult when he's beaned by a wild pitch—and suddenly he's having trouble hitting as well as throwing. What good is a ball player who's afraid of the ball?

The Peach Street Mudders return in another action-packed adventure!

Bus Mercer, shortstop for the Peach Street Mudders baseball team, would give his right arm to be picked for the county All-Star team. And except for one error, his performance during the first game the All-Star scouts attend is good. Bus is determined to improve his playing in the next two games but finds his concentration is broken by an unlikely distraction: his new mountain bike! The day after he receives the bike, Bus makes the mistake of breaking the rules of riding set by his parents. When he doesn't confess to his disobedience, he is plagued by guilty feelings, and these feelings start to affect his playing ability. Will Bus set the matter right and prove he's All-Star quality, on and off the field?

Last season, Julian Pryce was the star center on his championship basketball team. But this year, he's the only starter to return to the team. Julian knows everyone will look to him to lead the team, but he doesn't want the responsibility. How can he replicate last year's miracle run?

Renny and Bryce play on opposite soccer teams battling for the championship. Until recently the soft-spoken but talented Renny warmed the bench while another player took the field. But now that player's out with an injury and Renny's been given the chance to show what he can do. And no one is more surprised at Renny's playing ability than his opponent, the hot-dogging, one-man team, Bryce. Bryce was sure Renny would be pushover, but Renny, who had admired Bryce's showmanship, proves that solid teamwork is often hard to beat. And in the end, both boys come off the field a little wiser.

Rob Lasher may just be an average soccer player, but there's nothing he loves more than working together with his teammates. Sure, his soccer skills aren't anything special, but that's all right with him--Rob has never minded flying under the radar. But when he saves his coach's life during one fateful afternoon practice, Rob finds himself suddenly thrust into the spotlight. Now lauded as a hero and heralded as the savior of his team, Rob wants nothing more than for things to go back to normal. Because not everyone on the team is happy about Rob's newfound fame... This classic story from beloved author Matt Christopher is sure to win over any young sports fan, all while teaching them what it means to be a good teammate, and what it means to be a true hero.

Tim Daniels is back at Camp Wikasaukee with rest of the gang from Nothin' But Net, serving as a mentor to three young rookies, and he's got his hands full He's still working on keeping his height from getting in the way of his game--he's shorter than most of the guys. Plus, he's got a bully on his hands, and he's got to find a way to inspire his campers. Good thing NCAA pro Dick Dunbar is there to help Tim with a super-cool shot that gives him the confidence to make his mark at camp.
Packed with on the court action and useful lessons about the game, this is story that gets to the heart of what team sports are all about--and because it comes from Matt Christopher, young readers know they're getting the best sports writing on the shelf.

Over one million copies sold! Sylvester loves baseball, but he isn't exactly what you'd call a good hitter. Even though he wants nothing more than to join his neighborhood team, the Hooper Redbirds, he's sure he'll never do anything more than warm the bench. But then he meets the mysterious Mr. Baruth who promises to make Sylvester one of the best players ever. Suddenly Sylvester goes from the worst player on the team to the kid who can only hit homers. With his overnight success, however, come tough questions. Will Sylvester ever learn the true meaning of teamwork? And what will happen when he has to learn to stand on his own? This beloved story about baseball, confidence, perseverance and being a good teammate is a modern classic for any young sports fan.

In this action-packed and inspiring guide, young readers can relive the US women's national soccer team win at the 2019, and will discover what lead the team to victory throughout the years. The U.S. women's national soccer team proved their prowess at the 2019 Women's World Cup when they defeated the Netherlands in the championship match. This marked the fourth world title and back-to-back win for the powerhouse team, and the players brought attention, support, and pride to women's sports and inspired everyone in the United States. This action-packed guide brings readers onto the field with the women's national team to experience the biggest moments of their careers, and dives deep into four of the team's most prominent stars: the steadfast Carli Lloyd, superstar Alex Morgan, newcomer Mallory Pugh, and the fearless Megan Rapinoe. Complete with stats and photographs, this book makes the perfect gift for any young sports fan.

Discover the amazing achievements of fan favorite two-time MVP Stephen Curry in this brand-new, comprehensive biography Steph Curry is a two-time NBA Most Valuable Player, record-breaker, and Finals champion who electrifies fans with his incredible on-court feats. He's also a dedicated husband, father, and philanthropist who inspires people on and off the court. Learn more about this remarkable athlete in this biography, complete with stats and photographs.

Outstanding. Unbelievable. Mindblowing.
These are just a few of the words used to describe the talents of LeBron James. He was a sensation in his early days playing AAU ball in Akron, Ohio-and continued to amaze through his four years as a high school phenomenon. Now going into his fifth year as a star of the Cleveland Cavaliers, he is touted as the best player in basketball today. And for good reason: his dunks are monstrous, his no-look passes are things of beauty, his three-pointers seem effortless. But even more importantly, he is that one-of-a-kind superstar whose main goal isn't to rack up the stats-it's to make his team better.

Delving into the life of skateboarding sensation Tony Hawk, this biography examines how he began skateboarding at age nine and his performance at the 1999 ESPN X Games, where he astonished viewers by performing a trick thought impossible to do. Illustrations.

Jeff is crazy about basketball, but his father is a research scientist and thinks sports are a waste of time. Jeff still wants to play, and so, without his father's support, he tries out for the school team. And he makes second string. He'd mostly sit on the bench, but Jeff knows that he will get a chance to prove himself to the coach and the team--and his father. He also knows that his dream of playing varsity will take a lot of hard work, but he enjoys every minute of practicing and playing.
After a frightening accident involving the team bus, Jeff's father insists that he quit the team. Later, the school principal convinces Jeff's father to change his mind, and eventually Jeff persuades his father to come see a game.
In a dramatic season-ending playoff game Jeff gets a chance to prove that his dream is possible--and that sports can be a valuable part of growing up.

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MATT CHRISTOPHER has written and published more than one hundred twenty novels, making him the most prolific and bestselling sportswriter for children and young adults ever. From books on football and baseball to soccer and skateboarding. Matt Christopher's work has spanned three generations of readers, and new fans are joining the ranks every year.

More than anything Boots Raymond wants to be a quarterback for the Apollos. But because of his size, the coach assigns him to a tackle position—and there's no arguing with the coach. Boots rebels and almost quits the team. It seems that nothing can change his mind, but his brother Tom intercepts and teaches Boot something valuable he learned from playing football and being a soldier.

Soccer. No other sport in the world captivates a bigger audience--and no other competition electrifies its fans like the World Cup. Now, just in time for the 2018 World Cup, comes this updated edition of Matt Christopher's classic title, jam-packed with information about each and every World Cup ever played. Want to know who was behind the biggest surprise defeat of the 1950 tournament? It's in here. Curious about what happened to the Jules Rimet trophy when it was in England? Turn to the chapter on World Cup 1966. Want to know more about the biggest triumphs and harshest defeats, all while feeling like you're on the field with the sports legends? Wondering what the term Total Football means? You'll find the answer here--along with much, much more. With updated content reflecting changes in the world of soccer, as well as all-new chapters going further in-depth into recent tournaments and the Women's World Cup--which the US women's team has won more times than any other team in history--this new edition is sure to capture a new generation of sports fans.

Drew Brees grew up in a family of athletes, and overcame injuries and setbacks to become one of today's best quarterbacks. This comprehensive biography--complete with photos and fun infographics--shows how Drew Brees went from being a flag football player to a Super Bowl MVP and a modern legend, and is sure to appeal to legions of football fans.

Babe Ruth was baseball's first true power hitter, a strong pitcher and smart outfielder who made some amazing game-saving catches. His love of the sport came through in his playfulness on the field and drive to win but Babe had to overcome a lot of obstacles in order to become the greatest. This comprehensive biography - with bonus photos and infographics - tells the story behind the legend.

Mia Hamm's speed, aggressive play, and ability to "read the field" helped her become the best women's soccer player in the world. Her stellar performance as a college, World Cup, and Olympic champion made her a sports hero, and her story will inspire a new generation of young athletes. This comprehensive biography - with bonus photos and infographics - gives readers an up-close look at one of America's greatest soccer stars.

This revised edition is now part of our Passport to Reading program! In this level 3 reader, Mike's telepathic dog Harry is able to tell him what the other football team plans to do on the field but Mike wonders - is it cheating? Can he win the game without Harry's help? Completely re-illustrated in full color by popular artist Steve Bjoerkman.

Jim Nardi could be the Vulcans' number one linebacker. He's fast and strong, and he has good hands. But he also has one major problem: He's afraid of being tackled. His teammates are disgusted with him, and his older brother, the Vulcans' coach, is disappointed. Then one person steps forward to give Jim the help he needs—but will it be enough?

Passport to Reading Level 3
Newly independent readers will love this classic baseball story now illustrated in full color with brand new artwork
Mike has a special relationship with his dog, Harry. They can read each other's minds Harry is able to help Mike out with tips about the opposing players on the baseball field, but Mike's having trouble with his pitches--and the buddies need to work together to save the game

Right fielder Alfie Maples is mystified by the newest member of the Peach Street Mudders. As far as Alfie can see, Roberti Frantelli can barely catch a ball or hit. Then Coach Parker asks Alfie to show the newcomer the ropes. Alfie is flattered and teaches Roberti all he can -- but begins to suspect that the coach plans to start Roberti in his position in the next game! Who is this strange new player, and can Alfie continue to help him play his best?

When Rudy Calhoun buys a catcher's mask at a yard sale, his playing improves dramatically--and he starts to wonder if there's some otherworldly presence helping him out behind the plate! Illustrations.

After he gets hit by a fast-moving ball, Turtleneck Jones loses his confidence on the baseball diamond and sees his position at first base given to another player.

Nicky is on his way to breaking the record for most runs batted in, but first he must overcome his superstitions, and someone who doesn't want to see the old record broken.

The Peach Street Mudders are in trouble: they need to find a substitute coach quick. Pitcher Zero Ford would love to ask his uncle Pete to step in, but after his poor performance on the mound, he doubts his uncle would be interested. Then Zero injures his finger -- and finds he can throw an amazing pitch that stumps every batter he faces! The question is, When the bandage comes off, will the slider -- and Uncle Pete -- disappear?