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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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