Discover Magic Johnson: The Kid Who Became the Showtime Legend A Biography for Kids By Ace Carter Hey, young hoop dreamers! Imagine a kid from a big, bustling family in snowy Lansing, Michigan, dribbling a basketball before dawn, dreaming of NBA glory. That kid was Earvin "Magic" Johnson, who grew up to become one of basketball's greatest legends—a five-time champion, three-time MVP, and the heart of the Los Angeles Lakers' flashy "Showtime" era. But Magic's story isn't just about no-look passes, skyhooks with Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, or epic rivalries with Larry Bird. It's about turning hard work, teamwork, and courage into a life that inspires everyone around him! In this action-packed biography for kids ages 6-12, join Magic on his incredible journey: from high school triple-doubles that earned his magical nickname, to college triumphs at Michigan State (including that legendary 1979 NCAA Championship against Bird), and onto the pros where he dazzled with the Lakers, winning titles in 1980, 1982, 1985, 1987, and 1988. You'll cheer through the highs of the 1992 Olympic Dream Team gold medal run with superstars like Michael Jordan, and feel the heart in his brave comebacks after injuries and his 1991 HIV diagnosis. But Magic's magic shines brightest off the court! Discover how he built a loving family with his wife Cookie and their kids, founded the Magic Johnson Foundation to fight HIV/AIDS and support urban communities, and became a business mogul owning movie theaters, Starbucks franchises, and even a piece of the Lakers. Through it all, his faith, family, and passion for giving back show that true success means lifting others—whether mentoring young fans, creating jobs, or advocating for health. Packed with fun "Did You Know?" facts (like how Magic once played all five positions in an NBA Finals game!), vibrant illustrations, and life lessons at the end of each chapter, this book will motivate you to dream big, work as a team, and face challenges with a smile. As Magic says, "All kids need is a little help, a little hope, and somebody who believes in them." Are you ready to find your own magic? Lace up and dive in—this is your playbook for becoming a legend! ★★★★★ "A warm, honest portrait of courage, joy, and community." Dr. Naomi Ellison, Ph.D., Child & Adolescent Psychologist; Director, Hope & Hoops Youth Resilience Clinic Ace Carter's Discover Magic Johnson: The Kid Who Became the Showtime Legend gives kids far more than a highlight reel. It traces Earvin "Magic" Johnson from a crowded Michigan home and snowy driveway courts to NBA superstardom without losing the emotional truth of that journey. Young readers see a boy who loves his family, worries about money and safety, and uses basketball not just as an escape, but as a way to serve others. ★★★★★ "Shows kids that leadership is about making everyone around you better." Coach DeAndre "Dre" Walters, Head Coach, Lansing Youth Hoops; Former Small College Point Guard I've told young point guards for years to study Magic Johnson. Now I can finally hand them a book that explains why . Discover Magic Johnson doesn't just tell kids that Magic was great—it shows them how he made everyone on the floor better. Carter walks readers through specific moments: Magic choosing the extra pass instead of the easy shot, learning every teammate's favorite spot, calling out defensive coverages, and using his smile to settle nervous teammates in big games. . ★★★★★ "A rare kids' sports biography that meaningfully addresses HIV, stigma, and compassion." Dr. Lydia Ramos, M.D., Pediatric Infectious Disease Specialist & Community Health Educator Magic Johnson's HIV diagnosis changed the way the world talked about the virus. Writing about that moment for children is delicate work, and Ace Carter does it exceptionally well. In Discover Magic Johnson , the HIV chapter is clear, accurate, and hopeful . Kids learn basic facts—that HIV is a virus you cannot see, that treatment exists, and that people with HIV can live long, full lives—without graphic detail or fear‑mongering. ★★★★★ "A wonderful catalyst for classroom conversations about race, opportunity, and giving back." Dr. Aaron Mitchell, Ed.D., Middle School Social Studies Teacher & Equity Curriculum Specialist My students know Magic Johnson as a name on an arena or a meme. Discover Magic Johnson brings him to life as a kid from a working‑class Michigan family who balanced chores, school, part‑time jobs, and endless pickup games. Carter anchors Magic's story in the realities of race and opportunity —how limited resources, segregation, and stereotypes shaped his path—and then shows how he used his success to invest in Black neighborhoods, businesses, and education. ★★★★★ "Perfect for kids who love both sports and stories of entrepreneurship." Danielle Cho, MBA, Youth Financial Literacy Educator & Founder, Money Smarts for Middle Graders One of my favorite aspects of Discover Mag