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Sports Close-Up Books in Order
Below you'll find the complete list of Sports Close-Up books in publication order. This is generally the recommended reading order for the series.
Reading order verified: April 2026
Quick Answer
What order should I read the Sports Close-Up series? Start with "Johnny Unitas and the Long Pass" (1972) and follow publication order through all 20 books.
The complete Sports Close-Up reading order is listed below in publication sequence.
Publication Order

Johnny Unitas and the Long Pass
1972

Willie Mays, Most Valuable Player
1972

Fran Tarkenton, Scrambling Quarterback
1973

Bobby Orr, Star On Ice
1973

Ernie Banks, Home Run Slugger
1973

Roberto Clemente and the World Series Upset
1973

Gale Sayers, Star Running Back
1973

Bobby Hull, Hockey's Golden Jet
1974

Billie Jean King, Tennis Champion
1974

Hank Aaron Clinches The Pennant
1974

O.J. Simpson
1974

Evel Knievel, Daredevil Stuntman
1975

Janet Lynn, Figure Skating Star
1975

Chris Evert
1975

Muhammad Ali, Boxing Superstar
1975

Frank Robinson
1975

Phil Esposito, The Big Bruin
1975

Arthur Ashe, Dark Star Of Tennis
1975

Evonne Goolagong
1975

Pelé, World Soccer Star
1977
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