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Amazing Athletes
Series · 51
books · 1996-2015

Books in series

Aaron Rodgers book cover
#1

Aaron Rodgers

2011

Many people believed NFL quarterback Aaron Rodgers would quickly become a star when he joined the Green Bay Packers in 2005. But as the backup to Brett Favre, Aaron didn't get to play much during his first three seasons. When Aaron took over as starting quarterback in 2008, he showed that he belonged on the field. Aaron led his team to the playoffs in 2009. The next season, he guided the Packers to victory in Super Bowl XLV. Learn more about this amazing quarterback's journey from his childhood in California all the way to Super Bowl MVP.
Adrian Peterson book cover
#3

Adrian Peterson

2010

Running back Adrian Peterson of the Minnesota Vikings didn't waste any time proving that he belonged in the National Football League (NFL). During his first season in 2007, Adrian set the all-time NFL record for most rushing yards in a game with 296. He went on to be named NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year, and he hasn't slowed down since. In 2010 Adrian led the Vikings to the National Football Conference championship game. Follow this amazing runner from his humble beginnings to the top of the football world.
Albert Pujols book cover
#4

Albert Pujols

2006

This biography recounts the childhood, training, and professional career of Albert Pujols, star first baseman and skilled hitter for the St. Louis Cardinals.
Alex Ovechkin book cover
#6

Alex Ovechkin

2011

When Washington Capitals left wing Alex Ovechkin entered the NHL for the 2005-2006 season, he didn’t waste any time. He immediately became one of the game’s best players. Alex scored 52 goals during his rookie season, and he hasn’t slowed down since. In 2007-2008 Alex scored 65 goals, the most in the NHL in more than a decade. But Alex and his teammates have an even bigger goal in mind―winning the Stanley Cup. Learn more about Alex’s amazing journey from his birthplace in Moscow, Russia, to the top of the NHL.
Alex Rodriguez book cover
#7

Alex Rodriguez

2005

Alex "A-Rod" Rodriguez of the New York Yankees has been breaking records since he joined the Major Leagues in 1994. In 2007, he made history again by becoming the youngest MLB player ever to hit 500 career home runs. This American League MVP and Gold Glove infielder is consistently at the top of the league in home runs and runs batted in. His amazing combination of offensive and defensive skills has made him one of baseball's highest-paid players. Follow A-Rod from his Miami childhood through his transformation.
Annika Sorenstam book cover
#11

Annika Sorenstam

2005

Presents the life and accomplishments of the first woman golfer to compete in a men's Professional Golfers' Association event in fifty-eight years.
Barry Bonds book cover
#13

Barry Bonds

1996

This completely revised and updated biography follows baseball's most controversial slugger from his early years to his achievement of the most revered record in sports—the career home run record.
Ben Roethlisberger book cover
#14

Ben Roethlisberger

2007

Quarterback Ben Roethlisberger set an amazing record in only his second year in the NFL. In late 2005, the twenty-four-year-old led the Pittsburgh Steelers on a wild ride to Super Bowl XL. With 11 wins, the Steelers just made a playoff spot. Next Ben and the team defeated three strong opponents on the road. Then in the big game, Ben became the youngest quarterback ever to achieve a Super Bowl victory. Having reached the top of his sport so early, many wondered what Big Ben would do next. A motorcycle accident and surgery almost took Ben out of play for 2006. He recovered, but his 2006 season had ups and downs. Still Pittsburgh fans are eager for more great play from this hugely talented young quarterback.
Brett Favre book cover
#16

Brett Favre

1998

When NFL quarterback Brett Favre joined the Green Bay Packers in 1992, no one knew the impact he would have on the game. In 1997 Favre lead the Packers to victory in Super Bowl XXXI, and he racked up impressive statistics on the field. By 2007 Favre had set records for most touchdown passes, most victories, and most yards passing in a career for a quarterback in the NFL. But Favre still wasn't finished. In 2010 he led the Minnesota Vikings to the conference championship game―the team’s best performance in more than a decade. Read more about one of football's biggest stars.
Brian Urlacher book cover
#17

Brian Urlacher

2009

Elected to six consecutive Pro Bowls, Brian Urlacher defines the linebacker position. As captain of the Chicago Bears' defense, Urlacher flies around the football field, searching for the next person to tackle. His quickness and strength have made him a force for quarterbacks and receivers offenses to avoid at all costs. During his career, Urlacher has logged more than 700 solo tackles and nearly 40 sacks. He's picked off 17 passes and batted down more than 50 more. Learn how this hard-working and talented athlete has become a fan favorite.
Brittney Griner book cover
#18

Brittney Griner

2014

After breaking records and winning awards in college basketball, Brittney Griner was the first pick in the 2013 WNBA draft. She joined the Phoenix Mercury. In her first game, Brittney showed the league her skills by dunking twice. Brittney's height makes her a talented center. She's a force on defense too. Fans love to watch her block shots and grab rebounds. Follow Brittney's story from her early years learning basketball in Houston, Texas, to her electrifying rookie season in the WNBA.
Carmelo Anthony book cover
#25

Carmelo Anthony

2013

Carmelo Anthony has had an incredible basketball career. As a freshman at Syracuse University in 2003, he led his team to victory in the national championship game. Next Carmelo joined the National Basketball Association's (NBA) Denver Nuggets for the 2003-2004 season. As one of the best scorers in basketball, he helped turn the Nuggets into a winning team. Carmelo loves playing in front of his hometown fans after being traded to the New York Knicks during the 2010-2011 season. Learn more about one of the NBA's biggest stars.
Chris Paul book cover
#26

Chris Paul

2009

In his first year of professional basketball, Chris Paul led all NBA players in steals and was named Rookie of the Year. The New Orleans Hornets' point guard is a huge star, but basketball has not always been easy for Chris. As a freshman in high school he stood just five feet tall and spent most of his team's games on the bench. But through hard work Chris soon became one of the world's best basketball players. Follow Chris' rise from his high school team's bench to the top of the NBA.
Clay Matthews book cover
#27

Clay Matthews

2012

Green Bay Packers linebacker Clay Matthews has had incredible success in just a few years in the NFL. When he was named to the 2009-2010 Pro Bowl, he became the first Packers rookie since 1978 to be selected for the game. In 2010-2011, Clay led the Green Bay defense to victory in the Super Bowl over the Pittsburgh Steelers.
Colin Kaepernick book cover
#29

Colin Kaepernick

2014

When San Francisco 49ers quarterback Colin Kaepernick was in high school, his coaches thought he was too skinny to play in college. At the University of Nevada, his coaches thought he ran with the ball too often and he would be prone to injury in the National Football League (NFL). But Colin led the 49ers to the 2013 Super Bowl. In 2014, he and his teammates were just one win away from playing in the big game again. Learn more about one of the biggest stars in the NFL.
Dale Earnhardt Jr. book cover
#31

Dale Earnhardt Jr.

2005

Dale Earnhardt Jr. has been auto-racing royalty since he was born. Dale Jr.'s father was the legendary Dale Earnhardt. Dale Jr. has carried on the Earnhardt family winning tradition since his father was killed in a racing accident in 2001. Dale Jr. won NASCAR's biggest race, the Daytona 500, in 2004. Then he did it again in 2014. Find out more about this racing hero who is creating his own legacy on the track.
#32

Dallas Friday

2007

Highlights the life and accomplishments of the U.S. national champion wakeboarder and Summer X Games gold medalist.
David Beckham book cover
#35

David Beckham

2007

Discusses the life and career of English soccer star David Beckham.
Derrick Rose book cover
#38

Derrick Rose

2014

Chosen first overall in the 2008 National Basketball Association (NBA) draft, Derrick Rose is one of the most explosive players in basketball. He learned the game from his older brothers while growing up in a tough neighborhood in Chicago. After one year at the University of Memphis, Derrick brought his high-flying game to the Chicago Bulls. Learn all about Chicago's biggest sports star and his dream of bringing the NBA championship to his hometown.
Dirk Nowitzki book cover
#40

Dirk Nowitzki

2007

Dallas Mavericks star Dirk Nowitzki didn't grow up with a basketball in his hands. Dirk was born in Wurzburg, Germany, where soccer is the most popular sport. But as a teenager, Dirk discovered that he was a natural basketball player. After being selected in the 1998 NBA draft, the powerful 7'0" forward quickly proved that he is more than just a tall player. In 2011 Dirk was named Most Valuable Player (MVP) of the NBA Finals as Dallas beat the Miami Heat to become world champions. Learn more about Dirk's unusual journey to the top of the basketball world.
Drew Brees book cover
#41

Drew Brees

2010

When quarterback Drew Brees left Purdue University to pursue a career in the National Football League (NFL) in 2001, many people thought he was too short. At six feet tall, they wondered if he would be able to see over the heads of the other players on the field. Brees quickly proved the doubters wrong. Named to numerous Pro Bowls as one of the NFL's best players, Brees was named Offensive Player of the Year for the 2007-2008 season. In 2009-2010 Brees took his game to another level, leading the New Orleans Saints to victory in Super Bowl XLIV.
Dwight Howard book cover
#43

Dwight Howard

2010

As the first player taken in the 2004 National Basketball Association (NBA) draft, Orlando Magic center Dwight Howard created high expectations. He has more than lived up to the hype. Dwight led his team to the NBA Finals in 2008-2009 and was named Defensive Player of the Year. In 2009-2010 Dwight was named to the Eastern Conference All-Star Team for the third time. He also became the first player ever to receive more than three million All-Star votes from fans. Follow Dwight's career all the way to the top of the NBA.
Eli Manning book cover
#45

Eli Manning

2009

A series of attractive, high-interest biographies includes a description of a famous athlete's career from the beginning through his or her current achievements.
James Stewart book cover
#51

James Stewart

2007

James “Bubba” Stewart is one of the fastest men in Supercross motorcycle racing. He has dominated dirt tracks ever since he was in elementary school. But James didn’t become a great racer overnight. He practiced every day in his own backyard, from age 3 on. Through this experience, he developed the skills that helped him win the World Supercross title in his first full season of competition in 2006. His courage, strength, and skill make him almost impossible to beat.
Joe Mauer book cover
#53

Joe Mauer

2008

See how a blend of natural ability and hard work has paid off for Joe Mauer, the first catcher in baseball's American League to win a batting title.
Johan Santana book cover
#54

Johan Santana

2006

Looks at the life and career of the Cy Young Award winner from the Minnesota Twins.
Josh Hamilton book cover
#56

Josh Hamilton

2009

Looks at the life and accomplishments of the outfielder for the Texas Rangers and discusses the injuries and addiction that derailed his career in 2001.
Kevin Durant book cover
#58

Kevin Durant

2011

Kevin Durant faced high expectations after he was selected with the second pick in the 2007 NBA draft. The Oklahoma City Thunder forward has gone beyond those expectations. Kevin was named the 2007-2008 NBA Rookie of the Year, and he’s only gotten better from there. In 2010 Kevin was named the Most Valuable Player at the FIBA World Championship in Istanbul, Turkey, where the United States won the gold medal. During his short time in pro basketball, Kevin has proven himself to be one of the best players in the world. Learn more about this amazing athlete’s journey to the top.
Kevin Garnett book cover
#59

Kevin Garnett

2004

When Kevin Garnett was drafted in 1995 he became one of just a few players to go straight from high school to the NBA. In twelve seasons with the Minnesota Timberwolves, he became the team's all-time leader in points, rebounds, assists, steals, and blocks. He also became one of the highest paid players in basketball history. Traded to the Boston Celtics in 2007, Kevin led his new team to the NBA Championship. Follow one of basketball's biggest personalities from childhood to the top of the basketball world.
Ladainian Tomlinson book cover
#63

Ladainian Tomlinson

2009

Who would have thought that a poor kid from Rosebud, Texas, would grow up to break National Football League (NFL) records and earn the Most Valuable Player title? Success didn't come easily to San Diego Chargers' running back LaDainian Tomlinson. But despite injury and personal loss, he's risen in the NFL ranks to become one of the most popular players of the game. LT helped turn his team into a dominating force in the league. Learn why his teammates call this determined and powerful player "Superman without the Cape."
Lebron James book cover
#65

Lebron James

2005

Introduces the life and accomplishments of basketball star LeBron James.
Maria Sharapova book cover
#68

Maria Sharapova

2008

A series of attractive, high-interest biographies includes a description of a famous athlete's career from the beginning through his or her current achievements.
Maya Moore book cover
#71

Maya Moore

2012

Maya Moore is a basketball forward for the Minnesota Lynx of the Women's National Basketball Association (WNBA), and the winner of the 2006 and 2007 Naismith Prep Player of the Year. She was selected as the John Wooden Award winner in 2009 after leading the University of Connecticut to the undefeated national championship. The following season, Moore led Connecticut to capture its second national championship and continued its overall undefeated game-winning streak at 78; in the 201011 season, she led the Connecticut Huskies to extend that streak to an NCAA both-gender record (all divisions) of 90. Moore was selected 1st overall in the 2011 WNBA draft by the Minnesota Lynx.
Miguel Cabrera book cover
#74

Miguel Cabrera

2013

Miguel Cabrera always knew that he wanted to be a baseball player. He grew up next to a baseball field in Venezuela, and most of his family played the game. Miguel became a star with the Florida Marlins, helping the team win the World Series in 2003. He was traded to the Detroit Tigers in 2008 and has become one of the most-feared sluggers in the game. In 2012, Miguel became the first player in 45 years to win the Triple Crown in the American League. Learn how Miguel went from a small field in Venezuela to the top of the baseball world.
Mikaela Shiffrin book cover
#75

Mikaela Shiffrin

2014

Alpine skier Mikaela Shiffrin won her first world championship in slalom in 2013. She was just getting warmed up. In 2014, she won a gold medal in the same event as a member of Team USA at the Winter Olympics in Sochi, Russia. Mikaela was the youngest person to ever win an Olympic slalom competition. At an event a few weeks later, she was named world champion for the second year in a row. Learn more about this young star with an incredibly bright future.
Prince Fielder book cover
#79

Prince Fielder

2012

Detroit Tigers first baseman Prince Fielder was born to hit home runs. He spent his childhood at the ballpark with his dad, former Major League Baseball star Cecil Fielder. Like his father before him, Prince is one of the most-feared sluggers. In the 2007 season Prince hit 50 home runs, becoming the youngest player to ever reach that mark. In 2012, he became the second player to win the All-Star Home Run Derby twice. But Prince is more than just a big hitter. Learn more about Prince's journey to baseball stardom.
Richard Sherman book cover
#80

Richard Sherman

2014

Richard Sherman is so good at defending passing plays that quarterbacks avoid throwing the ball in his direction. His incredible ability to smother opposing wide receivers helped the Seattle Seahawks win the Super Bowl in 2014. Richard is a big talker, and he's known for his brash personality on the field. Players and fans also know him as one of the best and most intelligent players in the National Football League (NFL).
Roger Federer book cover
#83

Roger Federer

2009

Roger Federer may be the finest tennis player ever to set foot on a court. His steady confidence, quiet power, and graceful ground strokes have made him a tough opponent as well as a pleasure to watch. Born in Switzerland, he wowed the junior tennis world, becoming Swiss junior champion at age 12. In 2001, he started his rise to the top of the professional ranks. By 2003, Roger was ranked number one in the world and has never looked back. With twelve career Grand Slam titles, he has only Pete Sampras’s record of fourteen to beat. The tennis world is watching!
Roy Halladay book cover
#85

Roy Halladay

2010

Strasburg is a right-handed pitcher for the Washington Nationals. He was selected with the first pick in the 2009 Major League Baseball Draft. He was called the "most-hyped pick in draft history" by ESPN and the "most hyped and closely watched pitching prospect in the history of baseball" by Sports Illustrated.
Russell Wilson book cover
#86

Russell Wilson

2014

When Russell Wilson played for the University of Wisconsin, many people thought he was too short to be a starting quarterback in the National Football League (NFL). But he proved these doubters wrong. This Seattle Seahawks quarterback led his team to victory in his very first season, winning the 2014 Super Bowl. Football fans cheer his passing power and leadership skills. Find out more about Russell's journey to the top.
Shaquille O'Neal book cover
#90

Shaquille O'Neal

2004

Follows the career of Shaquille O'Neal from his time playing basketball in high school and college to his years as a professional basketball player for the Orlando Magic and the Los Angeles Lakers.
Shaun White book cover
#91

Shaun White

2006

On snowboarder Shaun White's first run on the halfpipe at the 2010 Winter Olympic Games in Vancouver, Canada, he set the high score and secured the gold medal. On his second run, which people called a "victory lap," Shaun set an even higher score to destroy the competition. But Shaun is more than a two-time Olympic snowboarding champion. He's also a world-class skateboarder. As the first person to compete in both the Summer and Winter X Games, Shaun is the biggest star in two sports. Learn more about his high-flying skills and unique personality.
Stephen Strasburg book cover
#94

Stephen Strasburg

2012

When Washington Nationals pitcher Stephen Strasburg was picked first in the 2009 Major League Baseball (MLB) draft, some people called him the most-hyped young pitcher ever. Stephen quickly proved that he deserved the hype by striking out 14 batters in his first game. After missing most of the 2010 and 2011 seasons with an elbow injury, Stephen is back at the top of his game. He led the Nationals to one of the best records in baseball in 2012. Learn more about this young pitcher with a rocket arm.
Tim Duncan book cover
#97

Tim Duncan

2009

A series of attractive, high-interest biographies includes a description of a famous athlete's career from the beginning through his or her current achievements.
Tim Howard book cover
#98

Tim Howard

2015

Goalkeeper Tim Howard makes blocking streaking soccer balls look easy. But soccer is more than a game for Tim. When he was diagnosed with Tourette syndrome as a child, Tim turned to soccer. He could focus on the game and not worry about anything else. He was focused on soccer at the 2014 World Cup. Tim's incredible 16 saves for the United States against Belgium set a world record for most saves in a single match. Read all about the life of one of the world's best goalkeepers.
Tim Lincecum book cover
#99

Tim Lincecum

2012

At 5'11" and 165 pounds, San Francisco Giants pitcher Tim Lincecum is much smaller than the usual Major League Baseball player. Growing up in Renton, Washington, Tim was told he was too small to be a star athlete. He proved people wrong by winning the National League Cy Young Award in 2008 as the league's best pitcher. Then he won the award again in 2009. Tim secured his place as one of baseball's greatest pitchers by helping the Giants win the World Series in 2010. Learn more about Tim's amazing life and career.
Tom Brady book cover
#101

Tom Brady

2005

Quarterback Tom Brady of the New England Patriots has done it all in the National Football League (NFL). He and his teammates have won the Super Bowl three times. Twice he was named Most Valuable Player of the Super Bowl. But Tom didn't get to the top by being satisfied with his accomplishments. He still has the drive to win, and almost made it to the Super Bowl again in 2014. Learn all about one of the fiercest competitors in football history.
Tony Romo book cover
#103

Tony Romo

2010

Dallas Cowboys quarterback Tony Romo has one of the most high-profile jobs in sports. As the starting quarterback for America's team since 2006, Tony has amassed impressive stats and wowed fans. But it wasn't always this way. Tony spent three years as the backup quarterback and had to fight to earn the starting job. Find out more about the player who rose from the Cowboys' bench to become a three-time Pro Bowl selection.
Travis Pastrana book cover
#104

Travis Pastrana

2006

Travis Pastrana was just for years old when he learned to ride his first motorbike. Before long, he was competing in and winning races and freestyle competitions around the country. By age fourteen, he had become the youngest World Freestyle Motorcross Champion ever.
Venus and Serena Williams book cover
#106

Venus and Serena Williams

2003

Profiles the life and achievements of the Sacramento Monarchs guard, who won a gold medal in the 1996 Olympics as a member of the United States women's basketball team.
Yao Ming book cover
#107

Yao Ming

2004

Chronicles the life and career of Houston Rockets center Yao Ming.

Authors

Matt Doeden
Author · 63 books

Matt Doeden was born in southern Minnesota and lived parts of his childhood in Golden Valley, Minnesota, and Madison, Minnesota. He studied journalism at Mankato State University, where he worked at the college newspaper for three years. In his senior year, he served as the paper's Sports Editor, which put him in charge of the entire sports section, the sports writers, and the photographers. He covered mostly college sports, but also the Minnesota Vikings, who held training camp at MSU. His work allowed him to meet and interview people like Dennis Green, Cris Carter, Robert Smith, and more. Matt went on to work as a sports writer for the Mankato paper, and then he got a job as an editor with a small children's publisher called Capstone Press, and in 2003 he decided to start his own business as a freelance writer and editor. Since then, Matt has written and edited hundreds of books. Lots of them are on high-interest topics like cars, sports, and airplanes. He also writes and edits on geography, science, and even math.

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Amazing Athletes