Baseball player Jose Mendez worries about his poor performance with the bat and fears disappointing his father, a former ballplayer with an outstanding batting average.

When thirteen-year-old Tim Daniels gets a chance to go to basketball camp, he is faced with trying to be accepted by the popular players and remaining true to his friend who has become the butt of practical jokes.

In a career that spanned over thirty years, George Herman "Babe" Ruth changed the way the sport of baseball was played. He was the first true power hitter, a strong pitcher, and in the outfield made some amazing game-saving catches. His love of the sport shined through in the way he laughed while jogging around the bases, in how he kidded and horsed around with teammates, and in his overall determination to win. But there was a darker side to Babe, one that nearly ruined his career - and his life. In the end, however, Ruth managed to overcome his personal demons, recapture his health, and go on to lead his beloved Yankees to championship status. Simply put, there has never been another player like the Babe. This comprehensive biography of one of baseball's most memorable legends also comes with photos.

Tim Daniels is back at Camp Wikasaukee with rest of the gang from Nothin' But Net, serving as a mentor to three young rookies, and he's got his hands full! He's still working on keeping his height from getting in the way of his game--he's shorter than most of the guys. Plus, he's got a bully on his hands, and he's got to find a way to inspire his campers. Good thing NCAA pro Dick Dunbar is there to help Tim with a super-cool shot that gives him the confidence to make his mark at camp. Packed with on the court action and useful lessons about the game, this is story that gets to the heart of what team sports are all about--and because it comes from Matt Christopher, young readers know they're getting the best sports writing on the shelf.

Dale Earnhardt, Sr. first broke onto the racing scene in 1979, when he was named Rookie of the Year. In the more than 20 years that followed, his daring driving style earned him several top honors, including his proudest moment, a victory at Daytona. On February 18th, 2001, Earnhardt had been racing in the Daytona 500, when in the final lap, he had a fatal crash. While other drivers have come and gone, the face of Dale Earnhardt, Sr., with his handlebar moustache and wide grin, will always be the face of NACAR. Get to know a legend.

In 1954, Matt Christopher wrote and published The Lucky Baseball Bat and has since published more than one hundred twenty novels, making him the most prolific and bestselling sportswriter for children ever. With over 6 million copies sold, Matt's books have a permanent place in the hearts of young sports fans. Throughout 2004, we celebrate 50 years with Matt Christopher's own commemorative biography written by his son, Dale, in the tradition of the Matt Christopher Biography Bookshelf, with exclusive photos, original letters, and memorabilia.

Eleven-year-old Garry, embarrassed when his unathletic brother joins his lacrosse team, faces a bigger problem when the team bully turns on both of them.

Sylvester's baseball has been so dismal that the coach has him warming the bench. So when Cheeko offers to show him a few pointers, he eagerly accepts his offer. But Sylvester can't help thinking there's something fishy about Cheeko.

A young, inexperienced football team discovers its beginner's luck is due to a series of mysterious but successful plays anonymously sent to the coach.

Rocky Fletcher is being stretched to his limit. Until recently, he'd only played wide receiver for the Pythons. Now his coaches want him to learn the safety position, too-a position that opened up when Bobby, Rocky's best friend, broke his leg. Even though he believes he is to blame for Bobby's injury, Rocky eagerly takes on the challenge of becoming a two-way player. After all, the only other player available is Jared, a sullen boy who switched from soccer to football this season. Yet as time goes on, it's Jared who excels at the position because, thanks to Bobby, Rocky keeps missing practices! What's going on between Rocky and Bobby-and why is Jared on the team when he clearly dislikes football so much? Football Double Threat combines the action and excitement of football with relatable issues about envy, loyalty, and friendship.