10+ Best Sports Books for 7-Year-Olds w/ Exercises (2024)

Are you on the hunt for the perfect way to introduce the thrill of sports to your young reader? Look no further! Our handpicked selection of sports books for 7-year-olds is sure to capture their imagination and maybe even inspire them to play. Whether they're into fast-paced games or stories of teamwork and perseverance, we've got something that will keep them turning the pages. Keep reading to discover our favorite picks!

Fun Sports Books for 7-Year-Olds

• Winners Never Quit! by Mia Hamm, illustrated by Carol Thompson
  • Genre(s): Sports, Children's Fiction
  • Synopsis: This book features Mia, a young girl who loves soccer but hates losing. After deciding to quit following a disappointing game, Mia learns valuable lessons about perseverance and sportsmanship from her family.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's written by Mia Hamm, a soccer legend, which adds authenticity to the story. The book teaches important life lessons about not giving up, making it a great motivational read for kids.
  • Perfect for: Young sports enthusiasts and aspiring soccer players.

• Salt in His Shoes: Michael Jordan in Pursuit of a Dream by Deloris Jordan and Roslyn M. Jordan, illustrated by Kadir Nelson
  • Genre(s): Biography, Sports
  • Synopsis: This inspiring story details young Michael Jordan's early challenges and how he overcame them with determination and the support of his family to become a basketball superstar.
  • Why we recommend this book: It provides a relatable and motivational look at how even the greatest athletes have to overcome obstacles. The beautiful illustrations by Kadir Nelson also help bring the story to life.
  • Perfect for: Young basketball fans and children who need encouragement to pursue their dreams.

• Dino-Football by Lisa Wheeler, illustrated by Barry Gott
  • Genre(s): Sports, Fantasy, Children's Fiction
  • Synopsis: In a world where dinosaurs have not gone extinct, they compete in a thrilling football game. The carnivores face off against the herbivores in this action-packed and humorous story.
  • Why we recommend this book: It combines dinosaurs and sports, two subjects many kids love, making it an engaging read that captures their imagination and excitement.
  • Perfect for: Kids who love dinosaurs and sports, especially those who enjoy a good laugh while reading.

• The Berenstain Bears Play T-Ball by Stan & Jan Berenstain
  • Genre(s): Sports, Children's Fiction
  • Synopsis: This entry in the beloved Berenstain Bears series follows Brother and Sister Bear as they learn the basics of T-ball, including teamwork and sportsmanship.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's part of a well-loved series that many parents trust for teaching good values through engaging stories. This book is no exception, making it perfect for beginning readers.
  • Perfect for: Young readers who are starting to learn about team sports and the values of playing together.

• Little Shaq by Shaquille O'Neal, illustrated by Theodore Taylor III
  • Genre(s): Sports, Children's Fiction
  • Synopsis: Inspired by the childhood of NBA superstar Shaquille O’Neal, this book tells the story of a young boy named Little Shaq and his adventures and lessons learned through playing basketball with his friends.
  • Why we recommend this book: It encourages kids to stay active and embrace teamwork. Plus, it's written by a basketball legend, which adds a layer of inspiration.
  • Perfect for: Young basketball fans and children looking for fun and inspiring sports stories.

Educational Sports Books for 7-Year-Olds

• The Magic Hockey Stick by Peter Maloney, illustrated by Felicia Zekauskas
  • Genre(s): Sports, Children's Fiction
  • Synopsis: This charming tale follows a young girl who receives Wayne Gretzky's hockey stick at an auction. She suddenly becomes the best player on her hockey team, but she learns important lessons when she misplaces the stick.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Reading comprehension, understanding of personal responsibility, and teamwork.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a fun and magical story that also imparts valuable lessons about believing in oneself and the power of hard work over relying solely on luck or talismans.
  • Perfect for: Young hockey fans and readers who enjoy stories with a magical twist.

• Shootout: The Battle for the Stanley Cup by Mike Leonetti, illustrated by Gary McLaughlin
  • Genre(s): Sports, Historical Fiction
  • Synopsis: This book takes readers back to the thrilling 1970-71 NHL season, focusing on the intense battle for the Stanley Cup through the eyes of a young hockey fan.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Historical knowledge of sports, reading for details, and appreciation for the history of hockey.
  • Why we recommend this book: It combines exciting sports action with a touch of history, making it a great educational tool as well as a captivating story.
  • Perfect for: Young sports enthusiasts who are interested in the history of games and fans of hockey.

• Soccer Star by Mina Javaherbin, illustrated by Renato Alarcão
  • Genre(s): Sports, Children's Fiction
  • Synopsis: Set in Brazil, this story follows a young boy who dreams of becoming a soccer star while facing the challenges of poverty. With the support of his friends, he strives to overcome obstacles and pursue his dreams.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Cultural awareness, empathy, and teamwork.
  • Why we recommend this book: It provides a glimpse into the lives of children in different parts of the world and shows how determination and friendship can help overcome life's challenges.
  • Perfect for: Aspiring soccer players and readers interested in diverse cultural backgrounds.

• Fast Break by Derek Jeter, illustrated by Paul Mantell
  • Genre(s): Sports, Biography
  • Synopsis: Based on Derek Jeter’s own experiences, this book tells the story of a young basketball player who learns about the importance of leadership and teamwork.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Leadership skills, teamwork, and sportsmanship.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's an inspiring story from a renowned athlete that teaches important life skills through sports.
  • Perfect for: Young athletes and fans of basketball who are learning about the impact of personal growth and teamwork.

• Goal! by Mina Javaherbin, illustrated by A. G. Ford
  • Genre(s): Sports, Children's Fiction
  • Synopsis: In a dusty South African township, a group of friends gathers to play soccer and protect their new, precious soccer ball from bullies.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Social awareness, problem-solving, and teamwork.
  • Why we recommend this book: It highlights the joy of play and the importance of friendship and community in overcoming adversity.
  • Perfect for: Children who love soccer and stories about friendship and resilience.

Challenging Sports Books for 7-Year-Olds

• The Girl Who Ran: Bobbi Gibb, The First Woman to Run the Boston Marathon by Frances Poletti and Kristina Yee, illustrated by Susanna Chapman
  • Genre(s): Biography, Sports
  • Synopsis: This book tells the inspiring story of Bobbi Gibb, the first woman to run the Boston Marathon. It explores her determination and the challenges she faced in a male-dominated sport.
  • Why this book is challenging: It addresses themes of gender equality and perseverance in the face of societal norms, which are complex issues for young readers.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a powerful story of breaking barriers and challenging societal expectations, encouraging readers to pursue their dreams regardless of obstacles.
  • Perfect for: Young runners and any child interested in stories about overcoming challenges and making history.

• Basketball Belles: How Two Teams and One Scrappy Player Put Women's Hoops on the Map by Sue Macy, illustrated by Matt Collins
  • Genre(s): Biography, Sports, Historical Fiction
  • Synopsis: Set in 1896, this book recounts the first women's basketball game between Stanford and Berkeley, focusing on player Agnes Morley.
  • Why this book is challenging: It introduces historical context and the early days of women's basketball, which requires understanding of both historical and sports-specific concepts.
  • Why we recommend this book: It highlights the origins of women's basketball and promotes understanding of women's roles in sports history, inspiring readers with its tales of empowerment and resilience.
  • Perfect for: Young basketball fans and readers interested in history and women's rights.

• Young Pelé: Soccer's First Star by Lesa Cline-Ransome, illustrated by James E. Ransome
  • Genre(s): Biography, Sports
  • Synopsis: This book explores the childhood of Pelé, one of soccer's greatest players, detailing his rise from poverty in Brazil to becoming a global soccer icon.
  • Why this book is challenging: It deals with themes of poverty and success, using a narrative that weaves personal struggle with sports excellence.
  • Why we recommend this book: Pelé's story is not only thrilling for soccer fans but also offers a motivational glimpse into how dedication and passion can lead to extraordinary achievements.
  • Perfect for: Aspiring soccer players and any child who loves a story of triumph against the odds.

• Miss Mary Reporting: The True Story of Sportswriter Mary Garber by Sue Macy, illustrated by C. F. Payne
  • Genre(s): Biography, Sports, History
  • Synopsis: This biography highlights the career of Mary Garber, a pioneering female sportswriter who broke barriers in a male-dominated field during the mid-20th century.
  • Why this book is challenging: It presents historical and gender issues within the context of sports journalism, which requires readers to consider multiple perspectives.
  • Why we recommend this book: It teaches about the history of sports media and the importance of perseverance and courage in pursuing one's career aspirations, regardless of societal expectations.
  • Perfect for: Young readers interested in journalism, history, and sports, especially those who admire trailblazers and pioneers.

• Queen of the Track: Alice Coachman, Olympic High-Jump Champion by Heather Lang, illustrated by Floyd Cooper
  • Genre(s): Biography, Sports
  • Synopsis: This book tells the story of Alice Coachman, the first African American woman to win an Olympic gold medal, focusing on her journey against both racial and gender barriers.
  • Why this book is challenging: It discusses racial discrimination and gender inequality, alongside achieving athletic excellence, which are advanced topics for young readers.
  • Why we recommend this book: Alice Coachman's story is an inspiring example of overcoming adversity and achieving greatness, providing a powerful role model for young athletes and scholars alike.
  • Perfect for: Young athletes, particularly those interested in track and field, and readers who are inspired by stories of historic achievements and overcoming barriers.

Exercises to Develop a Good Reading Habit

Hey there! If you're looking to help your 7-year-old get the most out of their sports books, here are some fun exercises to boost their reading habits. These activities are designed to be engaging and beneficial, ensuring that reading becomes a favorite pastime for your young athlete.

• Create a Victory Board
  • What it is: A collage or board displaying images and words inspired by the sports books they read.
  • How it helps: Encourages visual association with reading and makes the activity more engaging.
  • Tips: Use a mix of drawings, magazine cutouts, and printed words that relate to the stories they love.

• Character Role Play
  • What it is: Acting out scenes from their favorite sports books.
  • How it helps: Enhances comprehension and helps children remember the story better.
  • Tips: Encourage them to use props and costumes for more immersive play.

• Reading Relay
  • What it is: Take turns reading a book with your child, passing the book back and forth.
  • How it helps: Makes reading a shared, enjoyable experience and builds confidence.
  • Tips: Applaud their efforts after each turn to boost their confidence.

• Story Predictor
  • What it is: Guess what happens next in the story before turning the page.
  • How it helps: Develops critical thinking and anticipation skills.
  • Tips: Discuss why they think the story will unfold in that way, encouraging logical reasoning.

• Book-Based Field Day
  • What it is: Organize sports activities based on the sports in their books.
  • How it helps: Connects the joy of reading with physical play and real-world application.
  • Tips: Include a variety of sports and relate them back to the story to reinforce the connection.

These exercises are not only fun but also incredibly beneficial in nurturing a love for reading and sports. By integrating these activities into your child's reading routine, you're setting them up for a lifetime of learning and enjoyment. So, grab those sports books and get ready to make reading a thrilling adventure for your little champion!