Teammates: Karl Malone and John Stockton (Library Binding)

~ (Author)

Editorial Reviews

From School Library Journal

Grade 5-8AA timely book written in a lively style with plenty of game action, black-and-white photos, and statistics. The teammate theme is developed through an examination of the character, background, and playing styles of the two leading lights of the Utah Jazz. Stockton grew up in a white and middle-class Irish-American family in Spokane. Many thought he was not big enough, strong enough, or talented enough to succeed in the NBA. Malone, who is black, is physically much more impressive but had to overcome a childhood of extreme poverty in rural Louisiana. Much of the book deals with the manner in which these individuals have worked to develop and blend their talents in order to succeed. In the process, they have become close personal friends despite their very different backgrounds. This title should have no trouble finding an eager audience among basketball fans.ARichard Luzer, Fair Haven Union High School,
Copyright 1998 Reed Business Information, Inc.

From Booklist

Gr. 5^-7. Despite the Utah Jazz's recent defeat at the hands of the Chicago Bulls, the team is a powerful presence in the NBA, mostly due to the combination of Karl Malone and John Stockton. Although Schnakenberg covers the childhood and professional careers of both players, the hook lies in the relationship that the two share. As the author puts it, "John is white, a Catholic from Washington State, best known for a technical playing style. Karl is an African American Baptist from northern Louisiana, best known for his physical style of play. How could two players as different as these possibly have the strong connection they do, both on and off the court?" Using vivid descriptions of games as well as anecdotes about the two's personal relationship, Schnakenberg gives readers insight into the duo's special bond. An attractive layout and black-and-white illustrations add to the book's usefulness; however, a list of the players' stats might have been interesting. Ilene Cooper

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Product Details

• Reading level: Ages 9-12
  
• Library Binding: 96 pages
• Publisher: Millbrook Press (April 1, 1998)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0761303006
• ISBN-13: 978-0761303008
• Product Dimensions: 9 x 5.9 x 0.5 inches
• Shipping Weight: 12.8 ounces (View shipping rates and policies)
• Average Customer Review: 4.8 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (4 customer reviews)
• Amazon.com Sales Rank: #1,359,417 in Books (See Bestsellers in Books)

Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

1 of 1 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Schnakenberg... He shoots....He SCORES!, October 3, 1998

By A Customer

I admit, when my daughter brought this book home for a book report, my expectations were high. We both loved Mr. Schnakenberg's Scottie Pippen book, and didn't think he could top it. We were both pleasantly surprised. Once again, he has put together an informative and entertaining book. I know it is officially a "Young Adult's" offering, but I was not ashamed to borrow it from my daughter and bring it to work to read over lunch. When a co-worker noticed it he picked it up out of curiosity. Now my daughter has to borrow it from the library again so HE can finish it. I hope Mr. Schnakenberg continues to provide his own personal brand of wit to both young and old alike. He is rapidly distinguishing himself as one of our premiere "Young Adult" authors.

5.0 out of 5 stars Stockton & Malone are different people but best friends,, November 18, 1999

By A Customer

This is the first time I have ever read this book. I thought it was great. This book proves you can be of different color,different religion, and of different build and still be best friends. Even though I don't like the Utah Jazz, I thought this book described the Utah Jazz,Stockton, and Malone very well.This book proves that even if you were once poor, you never forget where you came from.I would read this book or another book by this author if I could.

4.0 out of 5 stars Satisfy your "Basketball Jones", October 18, 1998

By A Customer

Wow. I thought I knew everything there was to know about Karl Malone and John Stockton, then I picked up Mr. Schnakenberg's book. All I can say is, he's painted a vivid portrait of two TRUE hardwood superstars. Their antics on and off the court are entertaining and inspiring. The writing is crisp,and the grammar is impeccable.