Calling all athletes! Did you know that today is National Football Day? In honor, here are 5 book recommendations for athletes, sports lovers, or anyone.

Before the Ever After by Jaqueline Woodson

In this novel-in-verse, Woodson tells the story of ZJ, the son of a professional Black football player, and his family's journey of dealing with his dad's memory loss which renders him unable to play football anymore.

Ghost (Track #1) by Jason Reynolds

This first book of Reynold's Track series tells the story of Castle Cranshaw (A.K.A Ghost), a basketball player turned track runner, who must leave his dark past behind to be the best athlete that he can be. 

Bump by Matt Wallace

In this Middle-Grade novel, Wallace tells the story of MJ, a young girl who dreams of becoming a professional luchadora or wrestler, all while balancing her home life.

Black Brother, Black Brother by Jewell Parker Rhodes

In this coming-of-age novel, Rhodes tells the story of two brothers, Donte and Trey, who must navigate a world that treats them differently due to their skin color. In order to prove himself at a predominantly white school, Donte takes up fencing to steal the title of "King," which Alan, his main aggressor, currently holds. 

Unsettled by Reem Faruqi

In this Middle-Grade novel-in-verse, Faruqi tells the story of Nurah, an immigrant Pakistani girl, who dreams of being a professional swimmer in a culture where the sport is looked down upon.