Shaquille O’Neal is so enormous that the actual-size footprint accompanying his poem needs a fold-out page to accommodate it. Jason Williams’s ball handling skills are so magical that the word “SEE” is repeated four times in big, bold letters just to make sure the reader catches his sleight of hand. Twelve other NBA stars are celebrated in jamming action poems accompanied by large photographs embellished with electric designs. Each poem celebrates the athletes’ special basketball talents. The poems are identified by the numbers on the jerseys of the players instead of page numbers. End notes offer author Charles R. Smith Jr.’s prose commentary on the individual styles of his favorite superstars in a book that will delight young fans. (Ages 7–14)

Cheer on twelve top basketball pros with a dynamic collection of verse by Charles R. Smith Jr., set against vibrant photos of the players in action.

Tim Duncan cashes in double-digit points by banking it off the backboard. Kevin Garnett makes his new-and-improved moves in 3-D. As for the "Super Human Atomic Quake" Shaquille O’Neal, just open the foldout and see what it might take to fill his gargantuan shoes (shown actual size). With pumping, energetic, rap-inspired wordplay, Charles R. Smith Jr. profiles the distinctive playing styles of twelve of the best players in basketball. A striking cover treatment, arresting design, and eye-catching action photos make HOOP KINGS a guaranteed magnet for kids who love basketball—and a valuable find for teachers who love language.