Books in At the Top of Their Game series

Some athletes not only thrill their fans with their skill on the playing field but also inspire their followers by overcoming obstacles along the way. That combination has helped make such people icons in our culture. One of those great icons is baseball's Mookie Betts. The five-foot-nine Betts always displayed great athletic ability, but many considered him too small to climb up the sports ladder. However, Betts overcame those doubters to become one of his sport's best players. In 2018, he became the first ever American League player to win baseball's Most Valuable Player, Silver Slugger, Gold Glove, batting title, and World Series title in the same season. This biography tells the exciting story of the Boston Red Sox star, including the victory of his team in the 2018 World Series. This bio features stats, photographs, and the words of teammates, coaches, opponents, and Betts himself.

It took a while for Cam Newton to establish himself as a star quarterback, but when his time came he really shined. The Georgia native spent two years at the University of Florida playing behind Heisman Trophy winner Tim Tebow before transferring to a junior college, which he led to a national championship. Returning to major college football, he led undefeated Auburn to a national title. He was then chosen first overall in the National Football League draft by the Carolina Panthers. In 2015, he led the Panthers to a franchise-best 15-1 record and a berth in Super Bowl 50.

Some athletes not only thrill their fans with their skill on the playing field but also inspire their followers by overcoming obstacles along the way. That combination has helped make such people icons in our culture. One of those great icons is baseball's Mookie Betts. The five-foot-nine Betts always displayed great athletic ability, but many considered him too small to climb up the sports ladder. However, Betts overcame those doubters to become one of his sport's best players. In 2018, he became the first ever American League player to win baseball's Most Valuable Player, Silver Slugger, Gold Glove, batting title, and World Series title in the same season. This biography tells the exciting story of the Boston Red Sox star, including the victory of his team in the 2018 World Series. This bio features stats, photographs, and the words of teammates, coaches, opponents, and Betts himself.

Simone Biles is four foot eight, making her the shortest American athlete to participate in the 2016 Olympic Games. But Biles soars high above her competition and is one of the most decorated athletes in the world, with twenty-five competition medals between the Olympics and World Championships. This engaging biography delves into the early life of Biles, including her Texas roots and how she found a unique family with her adoptive parents Ron and Nellie. Appealing photographs and thought-provoking sidebars support the narrative. Readers will explore her demanding career as a gymnast, her tireless work ethic, the ups and downs of competition-level gymnastics, and what it takes to soar.

National Football League quarterback Drew Brees has risen to become one of football's all-time greats, all while overcoming two devastating injuries as well as early doubts about his skills. The term "star athlete," however, only scratches the surface of the Drew Brees story. When he led the New Orleans Saints to a Super Bowl championship, Brees helped restore a sense of pride and hope to a city still recovering from the destructive forces of Hurricane Katrina. This biography delves into his background and football career, contributions to society, and success as a quarterback. Photographs and sidebars illuminate how Drew Brees continues to excel, inspiring others both on and off the field.