Sports A to Z

Here’s something that the youngest sports enthusiasts will get really excited about—and the first in a planned series of conceptual board books by emerging illustrator David Diehl. Sports A to Z celebrates the full range of games, and words associated with them, from archery to zamboni, end zone to yellow card. It’s got real visual excitement, too, with striking graphic designs in exuberant colors that have real child-appeal. Whether kids are looking at the airborne athlete for “Long Jump,” the diving goalie for “Net,” or the wheelie-popping cyclist for “eXtreme sports,” they’ll feel as if they’ve got the best seats in the house for every sporting event around!

Children's Literature

This alphabetic approach to sports includes games as well as the accoutrements that accompany them. For example, "a" is represented by archery and "b" by batter (not baseball). It is an interesting combination of sports-related terminology—some of which is more sophisticated than expected for board book readers—cheer, dunk, end zone, javelin, marathon, and yellow card are just a few examples. This may be a good warm up for the Olympics or for sports-crazed families. It is also a book that will work for ESOL students as well as older children who have issues with fine motor skills. The pictures are clear, simple and full of action—just like that found on the playing field of the sports depicted. Reviewer: Marilyn Courtot