The original and interesting Athlete vs. Mathlete trilogy of chapter books for kids ages 8 and up follows the adventures of two very different twin brothers, one a whiz in the classroom and the other unstoppable on the basketball court. Through the series the boys face challenges that help them see things from one another’s point of view.
Athlete vs. Mathlete (4.5/5 stars, currently priced at $5.70)
Owen Evans lights up the scoreboards. His brother, Russell, rocks the school boards. These twin brothers couldn’t be more different. They’ve long kept the peace by going their separate ways, but all that is about to change.
The new basketball coach recruits Russell for the seventh grade team and a jealous Owen has to fight to stay in the game. When someone tries to steal Russell’s spot as captain of the mathlete team, will the two be able to put aside their differences in order to save his position? Or will they be sidelined?
Perfect for fans of Matt Christopher and Andrew Clements alike, this is a lighthearted and hilarious look at what happens when brains meets brawn meets basketball.
Athlete vs. Mathlete: Double Dribble (4.5/5 stars, currently priced at $4.49)
One month ago, academic whiz Russell Evans never thought he’d be a basketball superstar. But now he’s playing on the seventh-grade team alongside his fraternal twin, Owen, and they’re tearing up the court. The Pioneers are on a winning streak, and Russ and Owen are getting along better than ever. Until the Matthews twins (Mitch and Marcus) show up.
These twins are a triple threat: practically basketball pros, academic geniuses, and . . . identical. Things heat up on the court and in the classroom as these brothers are poised to rule the school.
Now Russ and Owen are fighting for the spotlight, and sabotage seems like their only hope. But when Marcus suffers an injury and Mitch falters during a big game without him, it becomes clear that the Matthews are powerless when separated. Will Russ and Owen take advantage? Or do they have other plans in mind?
Athlete vs. Mathlete: Time Out (5/5 stars, currently priced at $3.82)
There’s only one slot left at the local basketball camp, and both Russ and Owen Evans want it, but it goes to Owen. Russ’s only option is the “Multi-Sport Sampler” camp, and he’s anything but enthusiastic.
When the twins arrive at camp, though, things take an unexpected turn. From the moment he sees the grit and natural gifts of the other guys, Owen suspects he’s in over his head. Meanwhile, Russ is inspired. He studies the science of soccer, volleyball’s variables, and the principles of pole vaulting, delighted to discover that it all makes perfect sense.
But when he sees how bummed-out his brother has become, Russ knows it’s his job to snap Owen out of it. Can he convince his ever-competitive twin to let down his guard and learn from the Hoopster hotshots?
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