For at least forty years, author Matt Christopher (1917-1997) was the top children’s author in sports books. Recognizing his appeal to young boys, publisher Little, Brown and Company has established several series using his name. The New York Yankees : the most successful team in major league history by Glenn Stout is a part of the Matt Christopher Legendary sports teams series. The text covers the team from its beginnings in 1903 as the Highlanders (or Hilltoppers) through the Ruth era with its spectacularly successful teams, the dismal years of the late sixties and early seventies, the Bronx zoo with Billy Martin up to 2006. The story includes the usual suspects like Gehrig, DiMaggio, Mantle, Maris and Jeter. And many more great and not so great players, managers and owners.

The book is written in short chapters and will appeal to the middle elementary school reader (grades three and four). Stout includes the results of every Yankee season and postseason. And it’s impressive with 26 Series championships up to 2006. He also lists all 34 Yankee players who were elected to the Hall of Fame. Sadly, there were only 8 pages of photos in black and white. In a book written for young boys, there could have been more photographs of famous players and games. Also missing were pictures of Yankee Stadium and its predecessor, Hilltop Park. A good introduction to a legendary team! ( )