12/08/2025
Whitecaps library
I’ve posted a lot of great books on here that every athlete should read. Today’s post highlights five books that are good for the soul— meaning they are entertaining, thought-provoking, and full of lessons you can actually apply.
These stories spark original thought and create opportunities for real conversations at home between parents and athletes. The mental side of athletics is the most overlooked part of being elite. The best athletes in the world learn to control their minds so their physical abilities never get derailed.
When young athletes struggle mentally, it can sometimes create tension between parent and player. Tackle those challenges together—because we all struggle, and no one gets through this journey alone.
The Zen Monkey and the Lotus Flower — Tenpa Sesha- 52 short stories filled with simple, timeless wisdom. Easy daily reads that always hit.
Inning 1: It’s Not Always Black and Grey — Wi******er Cavalier- A collection of funny, relatable poems packed with great lessons. The author takes the “weirdness” of baseball and creates entertaining ways to learn life lessons.
The Old Man and the Sea — Ernest Hemingway- A classic about resilience and fight. Every athlete can learn from this one.
Wild at Heart — John Eldredge- A book that taught me you can be tough, good, respected, and true to yourself all at once. You don’t have to be the “nice guy” to have strong character and be a leader.
Into the Wild — Jon Krakauer- A gripping adventure young readers will love—but the real value comes from discussing the deeper message together as parent and athlete. Young readers may get lost in the adventure and miss the great take aways.
