World of Sport

In World of Sport, particular sports are singled out for more detailed description followed by more general information about the sporting genre to which it belongs, in an 'Around the World' double page spread.

History and notable champions, as well as how certain sports are played, are also included. For instance, for 'Boxing', we learn that it dates back to Ancient Egypt or earlier, and we're told some of the rules, as well as the specifications for contestants. Muhammad Ali is profiled and Olympic women's boxing is mentioned. Martial Arts are similarly summarised before a double-page about combat sports, some practised in more than one country (sumo wrestling) or region (kabaddi), others internationally (chess).

Ball Sports, as the biggest genre, has more pages, covering a range from American football to squash, before we finally reach the Around the World double spread. And, as bookends, there's an introduction about how sport began, and a comparison of ancient and modern Olympics, plus a glossary. There's also a chart which children are encouraged to use for their own tournament.

This snazzy production works. It works because it is inclusive, not just in the choice of sports, but in the illustrative style: the usual depictions of svelt sports people replaced by chunky figures of diverse appearance and abilities. We get to thinking, 'that could be me'. It also works because the text, although small, is set amid the pictures with careful thought to legibility, as well as aesthetics. It works because we're given plenty of information without it being overwhelming. And it's fun, such that a group of friends could read it aloud, or a teacher dip into it as a five-minute filler.

World of Sport will appeal to those who aren't 'sporty', as much as to those with active ambitions; as much to six-year-olds as to upper primary children. Highly recommended.

Suggested Reading Age 7+