Auston Matthews

Auston Matthews and Serena Williams, two short nonfiction sports biographies, are part of “Superstars”, a large series about famous people. The 32-page books are full of facts and colour photographs that let the school-aged reader know detailed information about the people featured inside. While most of the information is positive, the authors include short excerpts about hardships or controversy surrounding each person. Reading about how Serena competed against her sister, dealt with the death of another sister, and overcame injuries (mental and physical) during her life, will be inspiring for young readers. Both Auston and Serena’s books show how their fathers influenced their lives, and how each sports star gives back to their fans by helping with charities. The books contain information up to 2018 and a timeline that begins with their birthdate. Although both athletes were born in the United States, Auston’s book talks a little about his hockey ties to Canada (he plays for the Toronto Maple Leafs). Neither book delves into how the games the stars excel in are played (tennis or hockey), but the books do give examples of how they exemplify good sportsmanship, and the number of awards they have received over the years. These are quick reads for sports fans, both male and female.