April 1, 2022
Gr 3-8-Young athletes interested in learning more about a new game will appreciate this hi-lo series. Following a steady format, each book covers the history of its sport before breaking down positions, equipment, rules, and basic skills. In Wrestling, readers also learn about the different weight classes, though there's no mention of the possibility of coed teams, which is not uncommon in small communities. While the importance of practice is discussed in each book, practice and "camps," week long intensive training, is described in Cheerleading and after reading about cheer competitions, few will doubt that cheerleaders are talented athletes. Most of the books make an effort to include a diverse array of athletes, both male and female; however, none of the athletes in Football appear to be female. While the writing is not particularly intriguing, the series is a useful set for most libraries. VERDICT A fine additional purchase.
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