These formulaic biographies feature accessible texts describing the careers of famous athletes and plenty of full-page color photographs. The open, non-intimidating pages and information that should satisfy book-report requirements recommend the titles for purchase. Difficulties some of the athletes have had (such as "personal problems" for Bryant and steroid use for Rodriguez) are acknowledged but not sensationalized. Reading list, websites. Glos., ind.

RAPPOPORT, Ken . Derek Jeter: Champion Basball Star . ISBN 978-0-7660-4025-0 . LC 2011033514. RAPPOPORT, Ken . Peyton Manning: Champion Football Star . ISBN 978-0-7660-4027-4 . LC 2011052759. THORNLEY, Stew . Kevin Garnett: Champion Basketball Star . ISBN 978-0-7660-4028-1 . LC 2011031517. THORNLEY, Stew . Kobe Bryant: Champion Basketball Star . ISBN 978-0-7660-4029-8 . LC 2011038174. THORNLEY, Stew . Tim Duncan: Champion Basketball Star . ISBN 978-0-7660-4030-4 . LC 2011050440. ea vol: 48p. (Sports Star Champions Series). charts. photos. further reading. glossary. index. websites. CIP. Enslow . 2012. PLB $23.93. Gr 3-6 Everything about these titles has been updated through 2011, including the series name (the original editions were published as "Super Sports Star ___"). Written in classic, dramatic sports speak, these books will be popular because of the choice of subjects and the attractive layouts. The covers are an eye-catching and the frequent full-color photos are nicely captioned, but some lack clarity and are a bit blurry. The texts focus on the athletes' professional careers, with very little information about their personal lives. Occasional sidebars add additional interest, and each book ends with career statistics, the player's address, and a brief list for further reading. Christina Dorr, Hilliard City Schools, OH