What This Book Is About
Jessica is her team's basketball all-star. She can dribble, pass and shoot, and she is also completely certain of one thing: without her lucky shoes, she cannot play. The story puts that belief to the test with the clock running down and the ring in front of her.
This is one short story for new readers rather than a collection, written by Felice Arena and illustrated by Tom Jellett. Short, fast and illustrated, it is an easy first chapter book for a child who would rather be on the court than in a chair.
Available at Popular bookstores, Kinokuniya, and the Singapore National Library.
Why UWC Chose This Book
UWC recognizes that the best way to build lifelong readers is to meet children where their passions are. For many Grade 2 students—especially those who are more active than bookish—sports are the gateway. Sporty Kids: Basketball hooks these readers with a world they already love, then delivers genuine reading practice wrapped in a story they can't put down.
The book also reinforces important UWC values. Jessica's problem is self-belief, and the question it leaves with a seven-year-old is a useful one: does the confidence come from the shoes, or from the practice? For a school community where students come from diverse backgrounds and sports are a universal language, this book is a natural fit.
Reading Level Guide
Building reading foundations? Start with picture books and simple labeled stories.
Perfect difficulty. Engaging stories with simple vocabulary for early readers.
An easy, quick read at A2. Great for building reading speed and confidence.
Other UWC Recommended Books for This Grade
Not sure if this book is right for your child? Take our free English assessment to find their CEFR level, then choose books that match.