Living in a community where the Von Erich family of wrestlers was well known, there will be interest in The Professional Wrestling Encyclopedia (Mary Gerard, Abdo, 2025, 192 pages, $52.79). An honest portrayal of the history of wrestling including several periods of decline and then resurgence opens the book and is followed by the basics of wrestling. The bulk of the book contains brief essays on the top wrestlers over a century, including women.

Sports fans will find a wealth of information in these comprehensive encyclopedias. Each volume is dedicated to a specific sport, starting with a detailed history before diving into chapters on notable teams, players, and leagues. The writing draws readers in by highlighting thrilling moments and standout performances. Each page features a well-written paragraph paired with a relevant photo, including historical black-and-white images that transport readers to the sport’s origins, as well as vibrant color photos that capture iconic moments and players. Each book concludes with further reading, an index, and a glossary. VERDICT A solid purchase for all sports collections.