Derek Jeter

After retiring from the MLB Derek Jeter has written an amazing childhood story, The Contract. The title of the novel refers to the contract Derek’s parents had him sign which basically tells him to get good grades, be kind, and to always follow your dreams.

The debut book in the Jeter Publishing imprint, The Contract is a middle grade baseball novel inspired by the youth of legendary sports icon and role model Derek Jeter.
As a young boy, Derek Jeter dreams of begin the shortstop for the New York Yankees. He even imagines himself in the World Series. So when Derek is chosen for the Little League Tigers, he hopes to play shortstop. But on the day of the assignments, Derek Starts at second base. Still, he tries his best while he wishes and dreams of that shortstop spot. And to help him stay focused on school, his parents make him a contract: keep up the grades or no baseball. Derek makes sure he always plays his best game—on and off the baseball field!

Derek Jeter has played Major League Baseball for the New York Yankees for twenty seasons and is a five-time World Series Champion. He is a true legend in professional sports and a role model for young people both on the field and through his Turn 2 Foundation.

Inspired by Derek Jeter’s childhood, The Contract is the first book in Derek Jeter’s middle grade baseball series, an important part of the Jeter Publishing program, which will encompass adult nonfiction titles, children’s picture books, middle grade fiction, Ready-to-Read children’s books, and children’s nonfiction. For more about Jeter Publishing visit JeterPublishing.com.… (more)

This book I took off the shelf thinking it would be about a new Derek Jeter growing up. But it was all about one of my favorite players of all time. He is about my age may be a little older playing baseball with his new best friend. His team makes it to the playoffs and wins by just a little in the finals. That summer Derek has to stay at is Grandparents house for the summer his Grandpa helps him improve at baseball. But only after he gets home from work. It was his best year ever, because he also got a lot better at school to.

Derek is one of my favorite sports players. So it was automaticaly one of my favorite books ever. Even if it wasn't about him it was great. The characters were greatly described and built up. His life was in a apartment with a lot of other kids. They played baseball every night with all of them. This was a book worth reading and was a 9 out of 10.… (more)

The Life You Imagine is a motivational book about achieving dreams. Since the book is written by Derek Jeter, most would think that it is purely motivational in the sports realm. This is not the case. Throughout the book, Derek Jeter teaches people of all ages how to work toward their dreams. He writes about the importance of doing well academically, setting goals, and living a well balanced life. Teenagers will enjoy the mix of facts about the Yankees, but will also learn about Derek Jeter as an all around good person. A good example of this is the section of the book where Jeter talks about his admiration for his sister due to her prowess at a number of sports and concentration on academics. This book will connect in curricular units where students are focusing on non fiction reading strategies or in an autobiography/biography unit. I could see the book used as one of many that is offered to students to differentiate for interest and reading level. While on the longer side, the text is written at a level that it would be appropriate for many middle school or high school students.… (more)

I thought this was a great read for young readers, especially for those who enjoy baseball. The plot was well thought out as it describes what a young Derek Jeter does on and off of the baseball field as he progressed to eventually become a major league baseball player. The writing was also well done because it helped me as reader visualize what Derek was going through at particular parts of the story, and it helped me learn that life can be difficult at times, but it its important to keep your head up and be strong. The book also presents good morals for young kids outside the baseball field to be outstanding members of their community and families. The main message of the book is to always think before you act (hit and miss).… (more)