Lots of kids would read a book if they found one that would improve their sports game. So try a book on soccer, baseball, or whatever they play. I include a long chapter on sports books, both informational and fictional. Reading aloud can also entice children into books they might not pick up themselves. In my guide, I also list children's books that have been made into movies.
Some children enjoy seeing a movie and then reading the book, or vice versa.
There is a recently published book titled Children's Books from Around the World. It is by Carl Tomlinson, and it lists books available in the U.S. that were published in other countries. Your public library might have Tomlinson's book. It's a great resource. Ezra Jack Keats writes wonderful books such as The Snowy Day and Peter's Chair.