Basketballogy

Gr 4-7--An in-depth overview of basketball history from James Naismith's invention of the game in 1891 to the international phenomenon it is today. Each bright and busy spread focuses on a different aspect of how the sport evolved, covering play rules to the color barrier to shoes worn on the court over time. The pages contain a wealth of information; however, the layout can prove difficult to read with varying graphics and typefaces scattered across spreads. Catchy, punny section titles like "Wood You Like to Play a Game?" and "Don't Quibble with the Dribble," are engaging but can seem juvenile. There are more serious conversations included, such as the cost of inflation when attending a game in the present day versus in 1960. Sylvester also excellently highlights racial, gender, and physical diversity with images and detailed facts. The end papers contain trivia, the original rules, and resources to learn more. VERDICT Consider this information-packed volume wherever basketball is popular.--Emily Bayci, Naperville Public Library, IL