(4) K-3 Illustrated by Carol Thompson. This picture-book anecdote relates how soccer player extraordinaire Mia Hamm learned that playing is more important than winning--but her "don't quit" message comes through a little too loud and clear. Energetic illustrations show a spunky young Mia wearing cleats and sporting a ponytail. The final pages include photographs of Mia playing soccer as a child and as a professional athlete.

Reviewer: Tanya D. Auger

(4) 4-6 New Wave series. Each laudatory profile traces a gifted child-athlete's rise to top-notch sports star. Most chapters are devoted to play-by-play descriptions of crucial games, which will satisfy many fans, but readers interested in a glimpse of the athletes' lives off the field will have to look elsewhere. Statistics and quotes from coaches and teammates are sprinkled throughout each book. Black-and-white and color photos are included. Ind.

Reviewer: Tanya D. Auger

(4) 4-6 Women Who Win series. Each book in this generally adulatory series on female sports stars traces an athlete's career from childhood to the present. The texts touch on the stars' backgrounds and struggles to overcome setbacks but focus mainly on descriptions of important competitions. As a whole, the series provides some insight into what it takes to succeed in professional sports. Color action photos, statistics, and a chronology in each book will please fans. Bib., ind.

Reviewer: Jim St. Claire

(4) K-3 Sports Stars series. The careers of four notable athletes in basketball, football, baseball, and soccer are profiled in these easy-to-read biographies. The bulk of the texts focus on the athletes' professional accomplishments, with only brief glimpses at personal histories. Adding interest are several clear, color action photographs that illustrate the slim volumes. Chronologies and stats are included.

Reviewer: Charlotte S. Huck