10+ Best Basketball Books for 10-Year-Olds w/ Exercises (2024)

Are you on the hunt for the perfect slam dunk in reading for your young hoop fan? Look no further! Our latest roundup of Basketball Books for 10-Year-Olds is just what you need to keep your all-star reader hooked. From thrilling game-time tales to inspiring stories of players who dream big, we’ve got the top picks that will surely score points with your eager reader. Keep reading to discover our favorite basketball books, tailored just for 10-year-olds!

Fun Basketball Books for 10-Year-Olds

• The Crossover by Kwame Alexander
  • Genre(s): Poetry, Sports Fiction
  • Synopsis: This novel in verse tells the story of 12-year-old twin basketball stars, Josh and Jordan Bell. As they navigate their way through middle school and growing up, their father's health issues and family dynamics come to the forefront.
  • Why we recommend this book: Its rhythmic, poetic prose captures the swift pace of a basketball game while exploring themes of family, brotherhood, and maturity. It's a captivating read that beautifully merges sports with life lessons.
  • Perfect for: Young sports enthusiasts and fans of stories told in a unique, poetic format.

• STAT: Standing Tall and Talented #1: Home Court by Amar'e Stoudemire, illustrated by Tim Jessell
  • Genre(s): Sports Fiction, Realistic Fiction
  • Synopsis: This series opener introduces young Amar'e Stoudemire, who is just starting to play basketball on the neighborhood courts. Through the series, he learns about teamwork, leadership, and the importance of balancing sports with education.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's written by a real-life NBA star and provides an authentic look into overcoming obstacles and finding success both on and off the court.
  • Perfect for: Aspiring young athletes and readers who enjoy stories about personal growth and sportsmanship.

• Rebound by Kwame Alexander
  • Genre(s): Poetry, Historical Fiction
  • Synopsis: Set in the 1980s, this prequel to The Crossover follows Chuck Bell, the father of the twins, who after a personal loss finds solace and direction in basketball and music.
  • Why we recommend this book: It uses engaging verse to connect readers with the emotional and physical challenges of the protagonist. The combination of sports, history, and personal development is both educational and inspiring.
  • Perfect for: Readers who enjoy a blend of history, sports, and coming-of-age stories.

• EllRay Jakes Stands Tall by Sally Warner, illustrated by Brian Biggs
  • Genre(s): Realistic Fiction
  • Synopsis: EllRay Jakes is a small boy with big problems at school. But when he finds a talent for basketball, he sees a chance to prove that size doesn't always matter.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a great story about overcoming bullying and finding one's niche, providing a positive message about self-acceptance and perseverance.
  • Perfect for: Young readers facing their own school challenges and those looking for a story where the underdog comes out on top.

• Slam Dunk by Sharon Robinson
  • Genre(s): Sports Fiction, Realistic Fiction
  • Synopsis: Jumper can't believe his luck when he's invited to a basketball camp. However, he soon learns that it takes more than just skill on the court to be a true star.
  • Why we recommend this book: This book not only thrills with its on-court action but also teaches important life skills like teamwork, integrity, and the importance of hard work.
  • Perfect for: Young athletes and any reader who loves a good story that balances sports action with life lessons.

Educational Basketball Books for 10-Year-Olds

• Basketball Belles: How Two Teams and One Scrappy Player Put Women's Hoops on the Map by Sue Macy, illustrated by Matt Collins
  • Genre(s): Historical Fiction, Sports Fiction
  • Synopsis: Set in 1896, this book tells the story of Agnes Morley, who led her Stanford basketball team to a challenging, controversial game against Berkeley, marking a pivotal moment in women's basketball.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Historical awareness, understanding of women's sports evolution, teamwork
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a thrilling depiction of a landmark event in sports history, emphasizing perseverance and courage.
  • Perfect for: Young readers interested in history and the origins of women's basketball.

• Long Shot: Never Too Small to Dream Big by Chris Paul, illustrated by Frank Morrison
  • Genre(s): Autobiography, Sports Fiction
  • Synopsis: This book shares the story of NBA star Chris Paul's childhood, focusing on his determination to overcome obstacles due to his size and become a basketball great.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Motivation, self-esteem, goal-setting
  • Why we recommend this book: It inspires kids to dream big and work hard, regardless of their limitations.
  • Perfect for: Aspiring young athletes and fans of inspirational stories.

• Salt in His Shoes: Michael Jordan in Pursuit of a Dream by Deloris Jordan and Roslyn M. Jordan, illustrated by Kadir Nelson
  • Genre(s): Biography, Sports Fiction
  • Synopsis: This book recounts the early years of Michael Jordan's life, focusing on his struggles with self-doubt and his family's support that helped him pursue his basketball dreams.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Perseverance, self-confidence, family values
  • Why we recommend this book: It provides a heartwarming and motivational look at how a family's encouragement can shape a child's future.
  • Perfect for: Young MJ fans and anyone who needs a little push to keep chasing their dreams.

• Hoops by Robert Burleigh, illustrated by Stephen T. Johnson
  • Genre(s): Sports Fiction, Poetry
  • Synopsis: This poetic picture book captures the excitement and energy of a basketball game, from the swoosh of the net to the pounding of the dribble.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Appreciation of poetry, understanding of basketball dynamics, rhythm and flow in writing
  • Why we recommend this book: Its dynamic illustrations and lively verses perfectly capture the thrill of basketball.
  • Perfect for: Young poets and basketball enthusiasts alike who appreciate the beauty of sports through artistic expression.

• Basketball (and Other Things): A Collection of Questions Asked, Answered, Illustrated by Shea Serrano, illustrated by Arturo Torres
  • Genre(s): Sports Nonfiction, Humor
  • Synopsis: This book poses and answers quirky questions about basketball, ranging from player analysis to hypothetical matchups, all with a humorous twist.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Critical thinking, sports analysis, humor writing
  • Why we recommend this book: It's an engaging and funny take on the intricacies of basketball, perfect for sparking curiosity.
  • Perfect for: Kids who love to question the "what ifs" of their favorite sports and enjoy a good laugh.

Challenging Basketball Books for 10-Year-Olds

• Travel Team by Mike Lupica
  • Genre(s): Sports Fiction, Drama
  • Synopsis: Danny Walker may be shorter than the average basketball player, but his skill on the court can't be overlooked. When he's cut from the travel basketball team, his father decides to coach a rival team, giving Danny and other overlooked players a shot at glory.
  • Why this book is challenging: It deals with complex themes like rejection, perseverance, and familial relationships, which are presented in a nuanced and mature way.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a gripping story that not only entertains but also imparts valuable lessons about resilience and the true spirit of sportsmanship.
  • Perfect for: Young athletes facing challenges and anyone who enjoys stories about underdogs and redemption.

• Summer Ball by Mike Lupica
  • Genre(s): Sports Fiction, Coming-of-Age
  • Synopsis: As a sequel to Travel Team, Danny Walker returns to face new challenges at a prestigious summer basketball camp. Here, he confronts taller and more skilled players, testing his abilities and his confidence.
  • Why this book is challenging: The narrative explores deeper psychological and social challenges, pushing young readers to think about personal growth and self-worth.
  • Why we recommend this book: This book encourages readers to believe in themselves and their capabilities, regardless of external pressures and expectations.
  • Perfect for: Readers looking for a story about overcoming obstacles and growing up.

• True Legend by Mike Lupica
  • Genre(s): Sports Fiction, Mystery
  • Synopsis: Drew "True" Robinson is a high school basketball star with big dreams, but his life takes a turn when he meets a mysterious old man at an abandoned gym who challenges his understanding of success and dedication.
  • Why this book is challenging: It includes themes of mystery and self-discovery, intertwined with realistic depictions of the pressures faced by young athletes.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a thought-provoking read that mixes sports action with life lessons about humility and hard work.
  • Perfect for: Young readers who enjoy sports stories with a bit of mystery and life lessons.

• The Wizenard Series: Training Camp by Wesley King, created by Kobe Bryant
  • Genre(s): Fantasy, Sports Fiction
  • Synopsis: This novel follows a diverse group of young basketball players at an inner-city basketball camp, who are each taught by a mysterious, magical coach with unconventional methods.
  • Why this book is challenging: The blend of fantasy elements with sports fiction introduces complex narrative structures and character development.
  • Why we recommend this book: It offers a unique mix of fantasy and sports, providing both entertainment and a fresh perspective on personal growth and teamwork.
  • Perfect for: Fans of fantasy and basketball who are looking for an imaginative and inspiring read.

• Fast Break by Mike Lupica
  • Genre(s): Sports Fiction, Realistic Fiction
  • Synopsis: Jayson, a talented basketball player, struggles with family issues and homelessness until he is taken in by a family that shows him what it means to be part of a team, both on and off the court.
  • Why this book is challenging: It addresses serious issues like homelessness and foster care, requiring readers to consider and understand complex social issues.
  • Why we recommend this book: It combines thrilling basketball action with heartfelt stories of family and belonging.
  • Perfect for: Readers who appreciate sports stories that also tackle significant real-life challenges.

Exercises to Develop a Good Reading Habit

Hey there! If you're a young basketball fan, diving into basketball books can be both fun and educational. To make the most out of your reading experience, here are some exercises that will help you develop great reading habits while enjoying your favorite sport through books.

• Set Reading Goals
  • What it is: Decide how much you want to read each day or week.
  • How it helps: Helps you stay focused and make reading a regular part of your day.
  • Tips: Start with small, achievable goals, like one chapter a day.

• Create a Reading Space
  • What it is: Set up a specific spot in your home where you can read comfortably.
  • How it helps: Reduces distractions and makes reading time special and enjoyable.
  • Tips: Make sure it’s well-lit and quiet, and maybe add a basketball poster or two!

• Discuss What You Read
  • What it is: Talk about the books with friends or family who are also basketball fans.
  • How it helps: Enhances understanding and retention of the book’s content.
  • Tips: Try to link the strategies or stories in the book with real-life basketball games or players.

• Use a Dictionary
  • What it is: Keep a dictionary handy to look up any unfamiliar words.
  • How it helps: Builds vocabulary and better understanding of the content.
  • Tips: There are also great dictionary apps that you can use on your tablet or smartphone.

• Visualize the Play
  • What it is: Imagine the plays or scenes described in the book as if they're happening right in front of you.
  • How it helps: Makes the reading experience more vivid and engaging.
  • Tips: You might even sketch some scenes or plays in a notebook as you read.

• Keep a Reading Journal
  • What it is: Maintain a journal to note down thoughts and favorite quotes.
  • How it helps: Helps establish a routine and keep track of progress.
  • Tips: Make it a habit of filling out the journal every day.

By incorporating these exercises into your reading routine, you'll not only enjoy your basketball books more, but you'll also develop strong reading habits that will benefit you for years to come. So, grab that basketball book, find your cozy reading spot, and let's get started! Happy reading!