SLJ: Players come and go, but mascots (usually) stay the same. Fans who spend their lives rooting for the same team know this to be true and it’s part of what makes mascots such a big part of fandom. The books in this series feature a handpicked list of some of the weirdest, most wonderful mascots in sports. From MLB’s Phillie Phanatic and Bernie the Brewer to NHL’s Youppi and Gritty, pro sports have no shortage of bizarre characters. The basketball and football books in the series include both professional and NCAA mascots, like Benny the Bull and the Fighting Irish ­Leprechaun. Each mascot gets a two-page writeup with stats and fun facts to enthrall readers. Overall, these are easy, engaging reads that will appeal to browsers and curious superfans alike. VERDICT Unique and exciting, this series is a first purchase for all.