June 1, 2010
Gr 3-6-These feel-good books introduce stars who make as much of a difference off the field as on. Each one begins with play-by-play narration that features the athlete in a life-changing game. The man's early abilities are then described, beginning with high school and college, and going on to cover his recruitment into professional sports. Sandler describes how Peterson was a star player early on, whereas Romo was not considered a great catch, even in college. Subsequent chapters feature each athlete's desire to give back to his community through civic groups and charitable organizations such as the Special Olympics. Concluding fact sheets provide additional tidbits of information. Though each book features large color photos on every page, those depicting the players' work with organizations that help children realize their dreams are especially poignant. These titles convey a positive message about athletes in a time when so many are featured in the news negatively, and they are sure to inspire readers."C. J. Connor, Campbell County Public Library, Cold Spring, KY"
Copyright 2010 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.
September 1, 2010
Grades 2-4 Stories of athletes working to help their communities provide nice angles to help kids who are interested in sports learn about social issues and giving back, especially amid a sports climate where headlines are so often dominated by big-league selfishness. The Football Heroes: Making a Difference series profiles a few such stand-up superstars. Each book opens with a rundown of the players athletic career, well supported by a dynamic layout and crisp photos. Adrian Peterson profiles one of the most impressive young running backs the NFL has ever seen and reminds readers that even as hes dazzled fans and juked his way into record books, hes never forgotten his roots in Palestine, Texas. On the whole, the books are more weighted toward athletic feats than philanthropic inclinations, but thats not necessarily a bad thing and will no doubt draw the intended audience of reluctant readers. A glossary and additional sources conclude.(Reprinted with permission of Booklist, copyright 2010, American Library Association.)
July 1, 2010
Beginning with career anecdotes and brief personal histories, these books then highlight the athletes' impressive on-field statistics and finish with their off-field charity work (e.g., Fitzgerald's memorial fund in honor of his mother; Gonzalez's commitment to helping sick children). The laudatory volumes are well intentioned but information-sparse. Plenty of photographs will appease fans. Reading list. Bib., glos., ind.
(Copyright 2010 by The Horn Book, Incorporated, Boston. All rights reserved.)