(4) 4-6 Playmakers series. These volumes provide brief profiles of basketball, baseball, tennis, soccer, football, and golf standouts. The choppy texts focus on each player's biggest games to date (through early 2017) and impressive statistical accomplishments, while also touching on his or her background and personal life. Color photographs capture the athletic action. "Fun Facts and Quotes" are appended. Reading list. Glos., ind. Review covers these Playmakers titles: Odell Beckham Jr., Jordan Spieth, Serena Williams, Bryce Harper, Stephen Curry, and Neymar.

Reviewer: Elissa Gershowitz

(4) 4-6 Total Sports series. These volumes provide broad overviews of the histories, notable teams and coaches, rivalries, star players, etc., of the title sports; most (not Football) include mention of both men's and women's teams. The texts are easy to read if occasionally vague or overgeneralized. Informative sidebars and copious stock photos enhance the presentations for sports fans. Reading list. Glos., ind. Review covers these Total Sports titles: Total Lacrosse, Total Basketball, Total Baseball, Total Hockey, Total Soccer, Total Gymnastics, Total Volleyball, and Total Football.

Reviewer: Elissa Gershowitz

(4) 4-6 Issues in Sports series. These hot topics are treated in a low-key way that highlights not only the social and physical hazards in sports but also how sports can contribute to one's personal development and community ties. Unfortunately, some of the examples selected to portray the problems aren't really well developed. Interesting photos, sidebars, and thoughtful discussion questions supplement the narratives. Reading list. Bib., glos., ind. Review covers these Issues in Sports titles: Injuries in Sports, Violence in Sports, High-Pressure Youth Sports, and Equality in Sports.

Reviewer: Jack Forman

(3) 4-6 Playing Pro Sports series. Each basic volume includes a brief history of the sport, rules, skills needed for success, and vignettes of outstanding athletes and memorable games. Sports fans will appreciate the clear but abbreviated information about their favorite teams and personalities. Numerous photographs, sidebars, inserts, and flashy graphics accompany the readable texts. Training tips and equipment diagrams are appended. Reading list, websites. Glos., ind. Review covers these Playing Pro Sports titles: Playing Pro Football, Playing Pro Basketball, Playing Pro Hockey, and Playing Pro Baseball.

Reviewer: Luther B. Clegg