This series explores the finer points of popular sports, explaining how various strategies can make crucial differences. Titles concentrate on specific activities; despite having different authors, they follow the same format. Chapters are introduced by vividly described action scenes that set up situations in which choosing a specific strategy affected ultimate outcomes, followed by in-depth analyses and comparisons to other approaches. Auto Racing Strategies explains the differences between NASCAR, Indy, Formula One, and Endurance Racing and the details the careful planning that goes into both technical aspects (wheels, fuel) and driver decisions (pit stops, passing). Mixed Martial Arts Strategies devotes two chapters to basic moves (striking, wrestling) and two to specific disciplines (Brazilian Jiu- Jitzu, Muay Thai). Both Tennis Strategies and Hockey Strategies get fairly technical offering in depth books at distinct aspects serving attacking the net, playing the baseline and doubles strategies, as well as offense and defense, special teams, overtimes and shootouts for hockey. Pages are filled with full-color action shots, sidebars and reference to winning franchises and celebrity athletes past and present. One caveat: while a woman appears on the cover of Tennis Strategies and both the tennis and martial arts titles include coverage of women’s events, there are not references to women in either the auto racing or hockey books. All titles do include a glossary and brief lists of references. These eye- catching offerings are sure to be popular with sports aficionados.

From mixed martial arts which draw upon traditional disciplines to modern auto racing, strategy is essential to sports. Offering dramatic, action-packed photos, these concise overviews use historic plays and current athletes to demonstrate strategy’s impact. Top-tier players are versatile and multi-talented, such as WNBA forward Breanna Stewart, a master of “positionless” offense and defense. Excerpts from memorable games also demonstrate strategic play. In the 2022 Australian Open, Coco Gauff’s aggressive play, including “attacking the net,” proved pivotal in winning key matches. Soccer Strategies describes how an aggressive strategy called “high press” has helped women’s teams to outscore and overcome opponents. VERDICT Sports fans will relish these well-written books, which should be welcome additions in most libraries.