Good Sports Jamie Short, King of the Court by Katy Duffield

This basketball story follows pint-sized Jamie Short as he navigates team dynamics with the Baytown Blobfish, blending sports action with genuine friendship challenges that will resonate with young athletes. The narrative balances Jamie's on-court confidence with relatable moments of self-discovery, creating an engaging sports fiction experience for middle grade readers. Duffield captures the energy of youth basketball while addressing important themes about teamwork and personal growth through Jamie's journey with his teammates.

What sets this sports book apart are the valuable educational components woven throughout, including thoughtful writing prompts and comprehension questions that extend the reading experience beyond the final page. The back matter and glossary provide excellent support for developing readers, making this particularly valuable for children who benefit from reading comprehension practice. Young basketball enthusiasts will appreciate both the court action and the story's heart, while parents and educators will value how seamlessly it combines literacy development with sports entertainment.