“His engaging presentation about his journey as an author and The Hoop Con inspired our students. He enriched their knowledge, taught resilience, and left a lasting impression with his encouragement.” – Stacy Anderson, Media Specialist, Belle Terre Elementary
Resources
Amar Shah (he/him) (www.amarshahwrites.com) is the author of the Play the Game basketball trilogy and the upcoming graphic memoir Wish I Was a Baller, published by Scholastic. A multiple Emmy-winning writer and producer, Amar has created stories that blend sports, culture, and storytelling for ESPN, Fox Sports, NFL Network, and the Orlando Magic. His writing has been featured in The Wall Street Journal, SLAM, The Washington Post, and The Orlando Sentinel.
Through his school visits, Amar shares his journey from sports-obsessed kid to author, journalist, and media creator—empowering students to chase their dreams, embrace resilience, and find their own voice. Whether he’s breaking down the writing process, sharing behind-the-scenes sports stories, or inspiring young hoopers, Amar brings an energetic and engaging presence to every visit.
He lives in Orlando, Florida, with his family, still holding onto the dream of suiting up for the NBA one day. (Hey, anything’s possible!)
TESTIMONIALS:
“Amar Shah delivered an inspiring message of persistence and determination that truly resonated with our third through fifth graders. Between his “Mamba Mentality” activity and his impressive “street cred” with legendary basketball players, the students were completely locked in and engaged. His visit that left our school community feeling motivated and empowered!”-Shannon Culp, Media Specialist, Timber Trace Elementary
“Amar’s presentations were engaging and impactful. He tailored each session to the students in the room, making sure to keep them interested. Although his books generally appeal to readers who love sports, he was able to ensure that even students who do not have any interest in athletics could gain important insights. He also was delightful with students of varying abilities–he took the time to truly have one-on-one conversations with students who wanted to chat. He even had students participating and public speaking who have avoided it in the past. I would highly recommend his presentation to anyone. The life lessons from sports and writing are applicable to all lives.” – Michael Reeves, Library Media Specialist, Polo Park Middle School
Amar spoke to my middle school students and during his visit he really connected with my students. It was more than just being a local author that grew up near our school. It was his life experiences that drew my students in. When he shared photos of basketball players my students faces and the quiet whispers showed the impact and the cool factor that he had met such players had with my students. When my students had to write about their mamba mentality moments it was a great exercise as well for my students, I also learned some things about my students that I did not know before. I recommend Amar to speak to your students as well. The connections he makes with students is really great and I am hoping to book him in the future for my upper elementary students as well. – Jessica Scurry, Media Specialist, Windy Ridge K-8
Books by Amar Shah
