Reviews

Gr 4-8-These titles offer a great deal of detailed information. Both have solid introductions that provide some background on the sports and descriptions of the equipment and skills needed to begin. The majority of the content consists of clear, step-by-step color photos and directions for performing various movements. However, Gymnastics has a busy layout that readers might find overwhelming or confusing. No mention is made of safety or of using a "spotter," and only two photos show a coach helping with a move. The section on scoring in competitions is incomplete. Skateboarding is the better of the two. One page is dedicated to using helmets and pads and another discusses how to handle injuries. Horsley frequently mentions the necessity of performing tricks with friends so that help can be summoned quickly in case of injury. Unfortunately, all of the photos feature boys. Because the titles include difficult and highly technical moves that are unlikely to be learned from books, they will work only as supplements to lessons or as review materials.-Kate Kohlbeck, Randall School, Waukesha, WI Copyright 2009 Reed Business Information.