Little Shaq (Little Shaq #1)

O'Neal (Shaq and the Beanstalk) kicks off a family-centric series with a mild story that unfolds over three chapters. As might be expected, basketball is at the forefront: Little Shaq's ball-hogging leads to a rift with his brother Barry, culminating in a broken video game. Readers may be surprised to discover, however, that a gardening theme is equally present, as Little Shaq and Barry begin a plant-watering business in order to purchase a replacement video game. Taylor's full-color illustrations do a passable job of reflecting the ups and downs of the characters' emotions, though with the exception of a few scenes of on-the-court action, they begin to look static and repetitive. The straightforward language is well-tailored to the target audience, and there's no missing the earnest, obvious messages about compromise, teamwork, and community involvement. A Full Fathom Five property. Ages 5-7. (Oct.)

Gr 1-3—This fictionalized look into the childhood of the basketball superstar features young Shaq and his cousin Barry. They're the best of friends and love to play video games. One day while playing their favorite game, they accidentally break the disc. Now charged with the responsibility of replacing the broken game, Barry and Little Shaq must come up with a way to make money. Working together, they come up with the idea to water plants. By working as a team and learning that hard work pays off, they eventually have enough to buy two games. Instead, Barry and Little Shaq decide to use the extra money to help out their community. Filled with cheerful illustrations, this is a quick and easy read. The language is simple and the story filled with a sense of community and friendship. VERDICT A sweet addition to chapter book collections.—H. Islam, Brooklyn Public Library

"The straightforward language is well-tailored to the target audience, and there's no missing the earnest, obvious messages about compromise, teamwork, and community involvement." —Publishers Weekly

"A conflict-resolution story that may well inspire young sports lovers to garden—or young gardeners to pick up a basketball." —Kirkus Reviews

"The language is simple and the story filled with a sense of community and friendship. . . A sweet addition to chapter book collections." —School Library Journal