Football is a beloved sport that has captured the hearts of millions of people around the world. For many kids, the excitement of watching their favorite team on TV or playing with friends is a highlight of their day. However, for young readers who are just starting to explore the world of football, finding the right books can be a challenge.
That’s why we’ve put together a list of the best football books for 1st grade readers. These books are designed to capture the imagination of young readers and introduce them to the world of football in a fun and engaging way. From stories about the history of the sport to tales of young athletes overcoming obstacles, these books are sure to inspire and entertain.
When choosing a football book for a 1st grade reader, it’s important to consider the reading level and interests of the child. Look for books with simple language and engaging illustrations that will hold their attention. Additionally, consider the theme of the book and whether it aligns with the child’s interests. For example, if the child is a fan of a particular team, look for books that feature that team or its players.
With our list of the best football books for 1st grade readers, you can help your child discover the joys of reading and the excitement of football. So grab a book and get ready to score a touchdown with your young reader!
Best Football Books for 1st Grade
As avid readers and football enthusiasts, we have compiled a list of the best football books for 1st grade students. These books are perfect for young readers who love football or are looking to learn more about the sport. We have carefully selected books that are age-appropriate, engaging, and informative. Our list includes a variety of fiction and non-fiction books that will capture the attention of young readers and ignite their passion for football.
Inspirational Sports Stories for Young Readers
If you’re looking for a book that can inspire and motivate your young ones to pursue their dreams, then Inspirational Sports Stories for Young Readers is a great choice.
Pros
- The book features inspiring stories of 12 world-class athletes who overcame various challenges to reach the top of their respective sports.
- The stories are well-written and engaging, making it easy for young readers to stay interested.
- The book is suitable for children aged 8 to 11 years, making it perfect for first-grade students.
Cons
- The book may be too simplistic for older readers or those who are already familiar with the athletes featured in the book.
- The book only covers 12 athletes, so readers looking for a more comprehensive collection of sports stories may be disappointed.
- The book is only 120 pages long, so it may not provide enough reading material for children who are avid readers.
We recently purchased this book for our first-grade child, and we were impressed with the quality of the stories. The book features inspiring tales of athletes such as Michael Jordan, Serena Williams, and Usain Bolt, who overcame various obstacles to become champions in their respective sports.
The stories are well-written and engaging, with colorful illustrations that help bring the tales to life. Our child was captivated by the stories and was inspired by the athletes’ perseverance and dedication.
Overall, we highly recommend Inspirational Sports Stories for Young Readers to parents who are looking for a book that can motivate their children to pursue their dreams. The book is well-written, engaging, and features inspiring tales of world-class athletes who overcame various challenges to reach the top of their sports.
The Berenstain Bears Play Football! (I Can Read Level 1)
If you’re looking for a fun and educational book about football for your 1st grader, The Berenstain Bears Play Football! (I Can Read Level 1) is a great option.
Pros
- The book is part of the popular Berenstain Bears series, which is well-loved by children and parents alike.
- The book is written at a level that is appropriate for 1st graders, making it easy for them to read on their own or with a little help.
- The book teaches children about the basics of football, including the rules of the game and the importance of teamwork.
Cons
- The book is relatively short, with only 32 pages, so it may not provide enough content for children who are particularly interested in football.
- The book is part of a series, which means that if your child enjoys it, you may need to purchase additional books to keep them engaged.
- The book may not be as engaging for children who are not already familiar with the Berenstain Bears characters.
Overall, we would recommend The Berenstain Bears Play Football! (I Can Read Level 1) for parents who are looking for a fun and educational book about football for their 1st grader. The book is well-written, easy to read, and teaches children about the basics of football in a way that is both engaging and informative.
A Running Back Can’t Always Rush (Sports Illustrated Kids: Victory School Superstars)
We highly recommend A Running Back Can’t Always Rush (Sports Illustrated Kids: Victory School Superstars) for any first-grade football fan.
Pros
- The book is written in an engaging and easy-to-understand language that is perfect for young readers.
- The story teaches important lessons about teamwork, sportsmanship, and the value of taking your time to do things right.
- The book is part of the Sports Illustrated Kids Victory School Superstars series, which means there are other great titles to explore once your child finishes this one.
Cons
- At only 56 pages, the book is a bit on the short side, which may leave some readers wanting more.
- The Lexile measure of 470L may be a bit too challenging for some first-grade readers, although the engaging story and illustrations should help keep them interested.
- Some readers may find the price a bit steep for a book of this length.
If you’re looking for a fun and educational football book for your first-grader, A Running Back Can’t Always Rush (Sports Illustrated Kids: Victory School Superstars) is an excellent choice. The story follows a young running back who learns the importance of slowing down and taking his time, both on and off the field. The book is written in a way that is easy for young readers to understand, and the illustrations are colorful and engaging.
In addition to being a great story, A Running Back Can’t Always Rush (Sports Illustrated Kids: Victory School Superstars) teaches important lessons about teamwork, sportsmanship, and the value of doing things right. The book is part of the Sports Illustrated Kids Victory School Superstars series, which means there are other great titles to explore once your child finishes this one.
While the book is a bit on the short side at only 56 pages, the engaging story and illustrations should keep your child entertained throughout. The Lexile measure of 470L may be a bit challenging for some first-grade readers, but with a little help from parents or teachers, most should be able to enjoy the story. The only downside is that the price may be a bit steep for a book of this length, but we believe the quality of the story and illustrations make it worth the investment.
Quarterback Rush (Sports Illustrated Kids Graphic Novels)
If you’re looking for a fun and engaging football book for a 1st grader, we highly recommend Quarterback Rush by Sports Illustrated Kids Graphic Novels.
Pros
- The book is part of a popular series, so if your child enjoys it, they can continue reading more books in the series.
- The graphic novel format makes it easy for kids to follow along with the story and stay engaged.
- The book teaches valuable lessons about teamwork and performing at your best.
Cons
- At 72 pages, the book may be too long for some 1st graders to read in one sitting.
- The lexile measure of GN560L may be too difficult for some 1st graders to read independently.
- The book is geared towards grades 4-6, so some of the content may be too advanced for 1st graders.
We recently read Quarterback Rush with a 1st grader and they absolutely loved it. The story follows a young quarterback who learns the importance of trusting his teammates and performing at his best. The graphic novel format made it easy for them to follow along with the story and stay engaged, and they were excited to read more books in the series.
Overall, if you’re looking for a fun and engaging football book for a 1st grader, we highly recommend Quarterback Rush by Sports Illustrated Kids Graphic Novels.
The Dog That Stole Football Plays
If you’re looking for a fun and engaging book to introduce your first grader to the world of football, The Dog That Stole Football Plays is a great option.
Pros
- The book is part of the Passport to Reading Level 3 series, which means it’s designed specifically for kids in the first to fourth grade range. This makes it a perfect choice for first graders who are just starting to read on their own.
- The story is engaging and easy to follow, with plenty of illustrations to keep young readers interested.
- The book has a positive message about teamwork and perseverance, which are important values to instill in young children.
Cons
- At only 32 pages, the book is relatively short. If your child is a fast reader, they may finish it quickly and want more.
- While the story is about football, it’s not a comprehensive guide to the sport. If you’re looking for a book that teaches the rules and strategies of football, this may not be the best choice.
- Some parents may find the vocabulary a bit challenging for first graders, but with a little help, most kids should be able to understand the story.
Overall, we recommend The Dog That Stole Football Plays as a great choice for first graders who are interested in football. The book is engaging, fun, and has a positive message that kids will love.
Buying Guide
When it comes to choosing the best football books for 1st graders, there are a few key features to consider. We recommend keeping the following factors in mind:
Age Appropriateness
First and foremost, it’s important to choose books that are appropriate for your child’s age. Look for books that are specifically designed for young readers, with simple language, engaging illustrations, and relatable themes.
Content
Consider the content of the book carefully. Look for stories that are positive, uplifting, and inspiring, with messages about teamwork, perseverance, and sportsmanship. Avoid books that contain violence, profanity, or other inappropriate content.
Format
There are many different formats to choose from when it comes to football books for kids. Some books are traditional picture books, while others are chapter books or graphic novels. Consider your child’s reading level and preferences when choosing a format.
Author and Illustrator
Finally, consider the author and illustrator of the book. Look for books by reputable authors and illustrators with a track record of creating high-quality children’s literature. Check reviews and ratings to ensure that the book is well-received by other parents and children.
By keeping these factors in mind, you can choose the best football books for your 1st grader and help foster a love of reading and sports in your child.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are some recommended football-themed books for first graders?
Some recommended football-themed books for first graders include “Football Hero” by Tim Green, “Kickoff!” by Tiki and Ronde Barber, and “Game Day” by Tiki and Ronde Barber.
Which football books are suitable for children around 8 years old?
Football books suitable for children around 8 years old include “The Dog That Stole Football Plays” by Matt Christopher, “Touchdown Kid” by Tim Green, and “The Big Game” by Tim Green.
Can you suggest age-appropriate football books for young readers?
Age-appropriate football books for young readers include “Football Genius” by Tim Green, “The Underdogs” by Mike Lupica, and “The Football Fumble” by Tony Abbott.
Who are some football players who have authored children’s books?
Some football players who have authored children’s books include Tiki and Ronde Barber, Tim Tebow, and Drew Brees.
Are there any introductory books on football history for kids?
Yes, some introductory books on football history for kids include “Football: Then to WOW!” by Joe Fullman, “Football’s Top 10: Ranking the Best in the Game” by Clive Gifford, and “The Everything Kids’ Football Book” by Greg Jacobs.
What titles are considered classics in children’s football literature?
Some titles considered classics in children’s football literature include “The Kid Who Only Hit Homers” by Matt Christopher, “The Football That Won” by Michael Sampson, and “The Greatest Football Stories Ever Told” by Jeff Silverman.
View more reviews of children’s books here: https://wellroundedny.com/reviews/books/