Cool Snowboarders

Children's Literature - David Adams

Did you know that a snowboarder can go as fast as a skier at 125 miles per hour? Did you also know that the world record for quarterpipe air is 32 feet? Such is the exhilarating world of snowboarding presented in Cool Snowboarders. This thrilling presentation captures the basics of the sport, its history, athletes, and top tricks, all done with clear cut text and colorful photos. The section called Snowboarding 101 and the glossary provide good basics for the uninitiated. Snowboarders include both men and women. One of the most exciting things about snowboarding is to see these performers in action, something that is presented in the videos that are linked on the publisher's website. The author's credentials are conspicuously absent, but he did consult with a snowboarding expert to write the book. He nevertheless does a good job of engaging young daredevils and others with a sport that has attained Olympic status. This book is one of six in the series called "X-moves." Includes glossary, suggested reading, bibliography, and index. Recommended for public libraries and school libraries. Reviewer: David Adams

School Library Journal

Gr 3-5–Readers may not have tried, or even witnessed, many of these sports in person. Nonetheless, they will welcome these overviews that feature short sentences coupled with colorful action photographs, and that all include at least one famous female competitor. History, basics, and important competitions are covered in a spread each, with text on one page and a full-page photograph on the other (many photos show superstars wearing the recommended helmets and other safety gear). Interesting fact boxes further explain concepts from the narratives. Closing “101” sections detail the equipment necessary. Rally Car Dudes, the most unusual offering, disappointingly does not fully describe what the sport is until the third chapter. Select individual titles as needed.