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

Are you on the hunt for the perfect page-turner for your young sports enthusiast? Look no further! Our curated selection of sports books for 10-year-olds is packed with stories that will captivate their minds and stir their love for the game. Whether your child dreams of scoring goals, hitting home runs, or crossing finish lines, these books are sure to keep them hooked. Keep reading to discover our top picks that will score big with your little athlete!

Fun Sports Books for 10-Year-Olds

• The Crossover by Kwame Alexander
  • Genre(s): Sports, Poetry
  • 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, they face on and off-court challenges that test their bond.
  • Why we recommend this book: It combines rhythmic poetry with action-packed basketball scenes, making it a captivating read that keeps young readers engaged.
  • Perfect for: Young sports enthusiasts and fans of stories told in a unique, poetic format.

• Baseball Genius by Tim Green and Derek Jeter
  • Genre(s): Sports, Fiction
  • Synopsis: Jalen DeLuca loves baseball and has a talent for predicting almost any pitch. But when his abilities are tested in the big leagues, Jalen faces challenges that require more than just his knowledge of the game.
  • Why we recommend this book: Co-written by former MLB star Derek Jeter, it offers authentic insights into baseball, making it not only fun but also educational.
  • Perfect for: Aspiring athletes and any kid who dreams of playing baseball professionally.

• Out of Left Field by Ellen Klages
  • Genre(s): Historical Fiction, Sports
  • Synopsis: In 1957, Katy Gordon is a skilled baseball pitcher who learns that girls are not allowed to play Little League. She decides to challenge this rule and fight for her right to play.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a powerful story about breaking barriers and equality in sports, inspiring readers to stand up for what they believe in.
  • Perfect for: Young readers interested in history and those who enjoy stories about justice and perseverance.

• Booked by Kwame Alexander
  • Genre(s): Sports, Poetry
  • Synopsis: Twelve-year-old Nick loves soccer and hates books, but he's forced to face the magic of words when a series of events changes his perspective.
  • Why we recommend this book: Another novel in verse by Kwame Alexander that beautifully blends sports with literature, encouraging even the most reluctant readers to give books a chance.
  • Perfect for: Kids who love soccer and those who might not yet know the power of a good book.

• Roller Girl by Victoria Jamieson
  • Genre(s): Graphic Novel, Sports
  • Synopsis: Astrid signs up for roller derby camp, but her best friend opts for dance camp instead. As Astrid dedicates herself to becoming a roller derby star, she learns about friendship, perseverance, and self-discovery.
  • Why we recommend this book: The graphic novel format is super engaging for young readers, and the story provides valuable lessons about growing up and growing apart.
  • Perfect for: Fans of graphic novels and anyone looking for a story about sports and personal growth.

Educational Sports Books for 10-Year-Olds

• Winners Never Quit! by Mia Hamm, illustrated by Carol Thompson
  • Genre(s): Sports, Biography
  • Synopsis: This picture book, written by soccer legend Mia Hamm, teaches children about the importance of perseverance and sportsmanship through the story of Mia's own experiences.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Teamwork, perseverance, understanding of sportsmanship
  • Why we recommend this book: It's written by a real-life sports icon who beautifully conveys the message that losing is part of playing.
  • Perfect for: Young soccer fans and children who are learning how to handle defeat gracefully.

• Magic Tree House #29: A Big Day for Baseball by Mary Pope Osborne, illustrated by Sal Murdocca
  • Genre(s): Sports, Fantasy, Adventure
  • Synopsis: Jack and Annie travel back in time to 1947 Brooklyn to watch Jackie Robinson break the color barrier in Major League Baseball.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Historical knowledge, reading comprehension, imagination
  • Why we recommend this book: It combines fantasy with a significant historical event, making learning fun and memorable.
  • Perfect for: Young readers who enjoy adventure and are curious about baseball history.

• Shoot-Out by Mike Lupica
  • Genre(s): Sports, Fiction
  • Synopsis: Jake is a star soccer player at his middle school, but when a new student threatens to take his spot, Jake has to deal with competition and jealousy, both on and off the field.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Emotional intelligence, conflict resolution, teamwork
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a relatable story that deals with real-life issues kids face in sports and school.
  • Perfect for: Middle schoolers who love soccer and stories about overcoming personal challenges.

• The Girl Who Threw Butterflies by Mick Cochrane
  • Genre(s): Sports, Fiction
  • Synopsis: Eighth-grader Molly Williams uses her unique talent of throwing a knuckleball to navigate the challenges of school, grief, and joining the boys' baseball team.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Coping with loss, breaking gender norms, resilience
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a touching story that encourages readers to find unique ways to overcome their struggles.
  • Perfect for: Young readers who enjoy baseball and stories about strong female protagonists.

• Salt in His Shoes: Michael Jordan in Pursuit of a Dream by Deloris Jordan and Roslyn M. Jordan, illustrated by Kadir Nelson
  • Genre(s): Sports, Biography
  • Synopsis: This picture book tells the story of Michael Jordan's early years and how his family helped him work through his worries about his height and skills to become a basketball legend.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Self-esteem, perseverance, family values
  • Why we recommend this book: It offers a rare glimpse into the childhood of a sports icon, emphasizing the importance of family support and persistence.
  • Perfect for: Young basketball fans and any child who needs encouragement to pursue their dreams.

Challenging Sports Books for 10-Year-Olds

• Ghost by Jason Reynolds
  • Genre(s): Sports, Fiction
  • Synopsis: The story centers on Ghost, a talented runner with a troubled past who joins an elite track team. He struggles with his emotions and the discipline required but finds a sense of belonging and purpose through the sport.
  • Why this book is challenging: It tackles complex themes like poverty, trauma, and redemption, requiring readers to engage with emotionally mature content.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a compelling narrative that offers a realistic portrayal of overcoming personal obstacles through sports, providing both a thrilling and inspiring read.
  • Perfect for: Young readers who appreciate stories about personal growth and resilience in sports.

• The Playbook: 52 Rules to Aim, Shoot, and Score in This Game Called Life by Kwame Alexander
  • Genre(s): Sports, Non-fiction, Motivational
  • Synopsis: This book combines uplifting quotes, inspirational stories, and practical advice, all framed around the metaphor of sports, to guide young people in their personal and athletic lives.
  • Why this book is challenging: It presents a sophisticated blend of philosophy and sports wisdom that goes beyond simple sports narratives to provoke deeper thinking.
  • Why we recommend this book: It offers motivational insights and life lessons through the engaging theme of sports, making it a valuable resource for personal development.
  • Perfect for: Motivated young athletes and readers looking for guidance and inspiration in both sports and life.

• The Boy Who Never Gave Up by Anthony Curcio
  • Genre(s): Sports, Biography
  • Synopsis: This biography of NBA star Stephen Curry follows his journey from a young basketball player with dreams to becoming one of the greatest shooters in basketball history, emphasizing his perseverance and dedication.
  • Why this book is challenging: The book delves into the setbacks and challenges Curry faced, requiring readers to understand and appreciate the complexities of achieving success in sports.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's an inspiring story that highlights the importance of never giving up, tailored to captivate and motivate young readers.
  • Perfect for: Young basketball enthusiasts and any reader who needs inspiration to keep pursuing their dreams despite challenges.

• Soccer Star Cristiano Ronaldo by John Albert Torres
  • Genre(s): Sports, Biography
  • Synopsis: This biography explores the life of Cristiano Ronaldo, from his humble beginnings to becoming one of the world's most famous soccer players, focusing on his incredible work ethic and talent.
  • Why this book is challenging: It covers detailed aspects of Ronaldo's career and personal life, offering insights into the world of professional sports that require a mature understanding from readers.
  • Why we recommend this book: It provides a detailed look at the life of a sports superstar, encouraging readers to learn from his dedication and persistence.
  • Perfect for: Soccer fans and young athletes who aspire to excel in any field of sport.

• Fast Break by Mike Lupica
  • Genre(s): Sports, Fiction
  • Synopsis: Jayson, a talented basketball player, struggles with family issues and homelessness but finds new hope when he moves to a new school and joins their basketball team.
  • Why this book is challenging: It addresses serious issues like homelessness and loss, intertwined with the sports narrative, challenging young readers to empathize and reflect.
  • Why we recommend this book: It combines exciting basketball action with a touching story of hope and resilience, offering a well-rounded and emotionally engaging reading experience.
  • Perfect for: Readers who enjoy sports fiction and stories that tackle real-life challenges.

Exercises to Develop a Good Reading Habit

Hey there! If you're looking to dive into the world of sports books, that's awesome! Sports books can be super engaging and fun, especially for 10-year-olds. To make the most out of your reading experience, here are some exercises that can help develop good reading habits. These are simple, fun, and tailored just for young sports enthusiasts like you!

• Set Reading Goals
  • What it is: Decide how many pages or chapters you want to read each day or week.
  • How it helps: Helps you stay focused and build a consistent reading habit.
  • Tips: Start with small, achievable goals and gradually increase them.

• Create a Reading Space
  • What it is: Designate a specific area in your home as your reading nook.
  • How it helps: Enhances concentration by associating one place with reading.
  • Tips: Make sure it’s quiet, comfy, and has good lighting.

• Discuss What You Read
  • What it is: Talk about the books with friends or family members who are also reading them.
  • How it helps: Improves comprehension and retention of the material.
  • Tips: Try to express what emotions and lessons the book invokes in you.

• Visualize the Story
  • What it is: Imagine the scenes in your mind as you read through the book.
  • How it helps: Makes the reading experience more vivid and enjoyable.
  • Tips: Pause after a few pages to picture the events and characters.

• Read Aloud
  • What it is: Read the book out loud to yourself or to someone else.
  • How it helps: Improves pronunciation and helps you process the information better.
  • Tips: Change your tone and pace to match the action in the story.

• Book Summary
  • What it is: After finishing a book, write a short summary of the plot and your thoughts.
  • How it helps: Enhances understanding and memory of the story.
  • Tips: Include what you liked, what surprised you, and what lessons you learned.

• Match Reading with Activity
  • What it is: Pair reading time with a physical activity related to the book’s sport.
  • How it helps: Connects the joy of sports with reading and enhances engagement.
  • Tips: If it’s a soccer book, try reading before or after playing soccer.

By incorporating these exercises into your reading routine, you'll not only enjoy your sports books more, but you'll also strengthen your reading skills. Remember, the key is consistency and fun. So, grab your next sports book, get comfy, and start practicing these exercises today. Happy reading!