10+ Best Sports Books for 13-Year-Olds w/ Exercises (2024)

Are you on the hunt for the perfect page-turner for a sports-loving teen? Look no further! Our curated selection of Sports Books for 13-Year-Olds is packed with stories that capture the thrill of the game and the spirit of competition. Whether your young reader is into team dynamics, personal triumphs, or the sheer love of the game, we've got something that will keep them hooked. Keep reading to dive into our diverse lists of must-reads that are sure to score big with any young sports enthusiast!

Fun Sports Books for 13-Year-Olds

• Heat by Mike Lupica
  • Genre(s): Sports Fiction
  • Synopsis: The story follows 12-year-old Michael Arroyo, a Cuban immigrant and pitching prodigy who dreams of playing in the Little League World Series, but faces obstacles that threaten to derail his dreams.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's an inspiring tale of perseverance and passion for sports, which can motivate young readers to pursue their dreams despite difficulties.
  • Perfect for: Young sports enthusiasts and any reader who loves an underdog story.

• The Crossover by Kwame Alexander
  • Genre(s): Sports, Poetry
  • Synopsis: Written in verse, this novel follows twin basketball stars Josh and Jordan Bell as they navigate life’s challenges on and off the court.
  • Why we recommend this book: Its poetic form makes it a unique and engaging read that captures the rhythm and pace of basketball, encouraging readers to appreciate poetry and sports simultaneously.
  • Perfect for: Readers looking for a fast-paced, emotionally resonant story and those interested in basketball.

• Ghost by Jason Reynolds
  • Genre(s): Sports Fiction
  • Synopsis: The book centers on Castle "Ghost" Cranshaw, a boy with a troubled past who finds a new direction in life when he joins a local track team.
  • Why we recommend this book: It addresses important themes like trauma and recovery through sports, offering a powerful message about overcoming hardships.
  • Perfect for: Young athletes and anyone interested in stories of personal growth and redemption.

• Million-Dollar Throw by Mike Lupica
  • Genre(s): Sports Fiction
  • Synopsis: Nate Brodie, a 13-year-old quarterback, wins the chance to throw a pass during halftime at a Patriots game for a million dollars, all while dealing with his family's financial troubles and his friend's worsening eyesight.
  • Why we recommend this book: It combines the thrill of sports with real-life issues, making it both exciting and relatable for young readers.
  • Perfect for: Aspiring young athletes and fans of football who enjoy stories about friendship and overcoming odds.

• Booked by Kwame Alexander
  • Genre(s): Sports, Poetry
  • Synopsis: This novel in verse tells the story of Nick Hall, a star soccer player who is dealing with his parents’ looming divorce and his own troubles at school.
  • Why we recommend this book: The unique narrative style and relatable themes can captivate young readers, making it easier to enjoy and engage with literature.
  • Perfect for: Soccer fans and young readers who might be dealing with personal challenges, offering both escape and comfort through poetry and sports.

Educational Sports Books for 13-Year-Olds

• Out of Left Field by Ellen Klages
  • Genre(s): Historical Fiction, Sports
  • Synopsis: Set in 1957, this novel follows Katy Gordon, a talented baseball pitcher who discovers that girls are not allowed to play Little League baseball. Determined to change this, Katy embarks on a journey to challenge the status quo and fight for girls' rights in sports.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Historical awareness, gender equality in sports, perseverance, and advocacy
  • Why we recommend this book: It provides a compelling look at the struggles for gender equality in sports through an inspiring and relatable protagonist.
  • Perfect for: Young readers interested in history, sports, and stories about fighting for justice.

• Roller Girl by Victoria Jamieson
  • Genre(s): Graphic Novel, Sports
  • Synopsis: This graphic novel follows twelve-year-old Astrid as she discovers her passion for roller derby and learns about friendship, self-confidence, and the importance of hard work.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Teamwork, resilience, self-identity, and the dynamics of friendship
  • Why we recommend this book: Its engaging visual storytelling and relatable themes make it a hit with young readers, especially those interested in alternative sports.
  • Perfect for: Fans of graphic novels and anyone curious about roller derby or seeking stories about personal growth.

• The Playbook: 52 Rules to Aim, Shoot, and Score in This Game Called Life by Kwame Alexander, illustrated by Thai Neave
  • Genre(s): Non-fiction, Sports, Motivational
  • Synopsis: A blend of inspiring quotes, anecdotes, and practical advice, this book offers 52 rules designed to help young people succeed in sports and life.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Motivation, life skills, personal development, and sportsmanship
  • Why we recommend this book: It combines sports anecdotes with life lessons in a visually appealing format, making it both educational and inspirational.
  • Perfect for: Young athletes and any reader looking for motivational guidance in both personal and athletic endeavors.

• Soccer School Season 1: Where Soccer Explains (Rules) the World by Alex Bellos and Ben Lyttleton, illustrated by Spike Gerrell
  • Genre(s): Sports, Education, Humor
  • Synopsis: This book uses soccer to explain various aspects of the world, from biology to history, making learning fun and accessible.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: General knowledge, understanding of complex concepts through sports, critical thinking
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a fun, educational read that uses the universal language of soccer to explore a wide range of subjects.
  • Perfect for: Soccer fans and young readers who enjoy learning about the world in unconventional ways.

• Fast Break by Mike Lupica
  • Genre(s): Sports Fiction
  • Synopsis: Jayson, a young basketball talent, struggles with family issues and homelessness. He finds a new start and challenges on a new team, learning about trust and teamwork.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Team dynamics, resilience, empathy, and personal responsibility
  • Why we recommend this book: It tackles serious issues like homelessness with sensitivity and offers a hopeful outlook through the lens of sports.
  • Perfect for: Basketball enthusiasts and readers who appreciate stories of overcoming adversity through sports and community.

Challenging Sports Books for 13-Year-Olds

• QB 1 by Mike Lupica
  • Genre(s): Sports Fiction
  • Synopsis: This novel follows Jake Cullen, a freshman quarterback living in the shadow of his father and brother, both of whom were football legends in their Texas high school. Jake struggles to prove his worth on and off the field.
  • Why this book is challenging: It explores complex family dynamics and the pressure of high expectations, which can be quite sophisticated concepts for younger readers.
  • Why we recommend this book: It offers a deep dive into personal growth and the challenges of living up to a family legacy in sports, providing both drama and inspiration.
  • Perfect for: Young athletes and readers who enjoy family-driven sports stories.

• The Running Dream by Wendelin Van Draanen
  • Genre(s): Sports Fiction, Young Adult
  • Synopsis: After losing a leg in a car accident, high school track star Jessica thinks her life is over until she meets a guide who inspires her to pursue her running dreams differently.
  • Why this book is challenging: It addresses physical disability and resilience with a depth that challenges young readers to think empathetically and critically about adversity and recovery.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's an uplifting story of overcoming unimaginable challenges and finding new ways to achieve one's dreams.
  • Perfect for: Readers interested in stories of personal triumph and sports rehabilitation.

• Peak by Roland Smith
  • Genre(s): Adventure, Sports
  • Synopsis: Fourteen-year-old Peak Marcello attempts to become the youngest person to reach the summit of Mount Everest, dealing with harsh conditions, personal limits, and ethical dilemmas.
  • Why this book is challenging: The novel introduces complex themes of survival, ethical decision-making, and the physical demands of mountain climbing, which are advanced topics for young readers.
  • Why we recommend this book: It combines adventure with introspective challenges, making it a compelling read that also educates about the rigors of mountaineering.
  • Perfect for: Adventure seekers and young climbers who are interested in the thrill and challenges of mountain climbing.

• Throw Like a Girl by Jennie Finch with Ann Killion
  • Genre(s): Biography, Sports
  • Synopsis: This autobiography by Olympic gold medalist Jennie Finch details her journey from a little league player to a professional softball player and Olympic athlete, emphasizing the importance of hard work, dedication, and the love of the game.
  • Why this book is challenging: It provides a realistic look at the sacrifices and dedication required to succeed at the highest levels of sports, which can be a mature theme for younger readers.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's inspirational, showing the impact of perseverance and passion in achieving great success in sports.
  • Perfect for: Aspiring athletes, particularly girls interested in softball or pursuing a career in sports.

• The Boy Who Never Gave Up by Anthony Curcio
  • Genre(s): Biography, Sports
  • Synopsis: This is the true story of NBA star Stephen Curry, focusing on his determination, hard work, and journey from a young basketball player with doubters to becoming one of the greatest shooters in NBA history.
  • Why this book is challenging: It delves into themes of perseverance against odds and the detailed mechanics of basketball, which are advanced and inspiring topics for young readers.
  • Why we recommend this book: It provides a motivational tale of hard work and resilience, encouraging readers to never give up on their dreams.
  • Perfect for: Basketball fans and young readers looking for a role model in sports and life.

Exercises to Develop a Good Reading Habit

Hey there! If you're diving into the world of sports books and want to make the most out of your reading experience, it's crucial to develop some solid reading habits. Here are a few simple exercises tailored for 13-year-olds that can help enhance your reading skills and make your journey through each book even more enjoyable.

• Set Specific Reading Goals
  • What it is: Decide how much time you'll spend reading each day or how many pages you want to read.
  • How it helps: Keeps you focused and helps in building a steady reading habit.
  • Tips: Start with small, achievable goals and gradually increase them as you get more comfortable.

• Create a Reading Space
  • What it is: Designate a specific area in your home as your reading nook.
  • How it helps: Reduces distractions and can make your reading time something to look forward to.
  • Tips: Make sure it's well-lit and comfortable, perhaps with a favorite chair or some cozy pillows.

• Discuss What You Read
  • What it is: Talk about the books with friends or family members who are also reading them.
  • How it helps: Enhances your understanding and retention of the book's content.
  • Tips: Try forming a small book club where everyone reads the same book and discusses it regularly.

• Use a Bookmark
  • What it is: Always use a bookmark to keep track of where you stopped reading.
  • How it helps: Prevents the frustration of losing your place and helps maintain a smooth reading flow.
  • Tips: You can make your own bookmarks or collect them as a fun side hobby.

• Read Aloud Occasionally
  • What it is: Spend some time reading the book out loud instead of just silently.
  • How it helps: Improves pronunciation and can make complex information easier to understand.
  • Tips: Try reading aloud to a pet or even an audience of your stuffed animals!

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

These exercises aren't just tasks; they're stepping stones to becoming a more engaged and thoughtful reader. By integrating these habits into your routine, you'll not only enjoy your current sports books more but also build a strong foundation for all your future reading adventures. Happy reading!