Don't Break the Balance Beam! (Sports Illustrated Kids Victory Superstars)

Gr 2-4—These early chapter books are about six friends who attend the Victory School for Super Athletes. In the first book, Kenzie is a gymnast whose super strength allows her to dominate when it comes to handsprings and flips, but works against her on the balance beam. After a meet at which she breaks the beam in half, she's too embarrassed to attempt her routine again. Coach Trish and Kenzie's best friend offer encouragement, and, sure enough, when she focuses on channeling her strength, she is able to master the balance beam. In the second book, Danny has the speed necessary to be a great running back, but he finds that faster isn't always better. Eating too fast gives him a stomachache, and racing through his schoolwork is causing him to make so many errors that he is actually suspended from playing a game. As Danny's parents and sister help him learn to slow down and enjoy life, the balance allows him to get his focus back and perform even better in his next football game. Colorful full-page illustrations capture the energy of the friends immersed in their various pursuits, and the short chapters will appeal to sports fans who are making the transition to chapter books.—Kim Dare, Fairfax County Public Schools, VA