Young athletes interested in learning how to play like the pros will find a lot of sage advice in this engaging series. Each book follows a similar format, describing an amazing performance by a respected female athlete and then breaking down the components, sharing practice tips for readers looking to up their game. WNBA’s Elena Delle Donne’s breathtaking jumpshot and Sue Bird’s legendary ball-handling prowess will inspire readers to get on the court. Gymnastic gold medalists Simone Biles and Laurie Hernandez have both power and grace, plus mental resilience, and imagining pulling off their powerful moves is fuel for readers’ wildest dreams. Anyone who’s watched the U.S. Women’s National Soccer Team would jump at the chance to learn shooting and passing tips from Alex Morgan and Megan Rapinoe. Packed with engaging writing and an extra emphasis on teamwork and resilience, this series is a must-have. VERDICT A recommended first purchase.

The title of this entry in the Girls’ SportsZone series (6 titles) implies that there is something gender-specific about the book’s contents, but that is not so; rather, this book covers the fundamentals of basketball, applicable to any gender, using WNBA stars as examples and relating a slew of memorable WNBA statistics in the process. The five chapters included are Jump Shooting with Elena Delle Donne, Passing with Skylar Diggins-Smith, Rebounding with Breanna Stewart, Defense with Sylvia Fowles, and Ball Handling with Sue Bird. Each section provides the detailed physical process of the pertinent technique and explains the strategy behind it, making this ideal for both young readers familiar with the game and those wanting to expand their understanding and skill level. Back matter includes a court diagram and further reading suggestions.