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Book Bundles: Women in Sports
These picture book biographies showcase talented athletes whose dreams of winning were undeterred by sexism and, in the case of the Williams sisters, racism. For more related books, click any of the subject tags below. Book Bundles are short weekly lists of recommended new books for a variety of age levels. Browse more Book Bundles in our Booklists Archive.
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K-3
Who Did It First? series.
Illustrated by
Ebony Glenn.
"They were two of the strongest and most successful athletes in the world, but they were also Black." This picture book biography follows the Williams sisters' careers, from childhood training to the tournament circuit to world championships. The admiring text and digital illustrations both emphasize the sisters' close relationship, even as rivals on the tennis court. Together, the Williams sisters faced challenges, including a family tragedy and overt racism, head on. A suggested reading list, timeline, and list of sources are appended.
Reviewer: Kitty Flynn
(3)
K-3
Illustrated by
Erika Medina.
After seeing a skateboard for the first time, young Patti McGee makes her own board (with wheels from her roller skates) and starts "ZIP! SWISH! ZOOM!"-ing around town. Eventually, she earns a spot on an all-boys team and wins the first national championship (in the girls' division, which the text doesn't specify). The upbeat text emphasizes McGee's devotion and dedication: "It wasn't easy. Her arms ached and her knuckles bled." The illustrations in sun-bleached colors emphasize the athleticism and artistry of the sport. An endnote brings readers up to speed on McGee's current activities; an author's note sets the story's time (early 1960s) and place (San Diego) and adds details about McGee's early career. A list of sources is appended.
Reviewer: Kitty Flynn
(3)
K-3
Little People, Big Dreams series.
Illustrated by
Paulina Morgan.
Soccer phenom Rapinoe was always most at home on the field and in the game. This series entry follows Rapinoe as she and her twin sister play the sport growing up and win college scholarships. From there, Rapinoe--now with her distinctive purple hair--begins her ascent, collecting World Cup and Olympic wins. Vegara mentions Rapinoe's coming-out announcement before the London Olympics and her wish to "be an example for other gay athletes." The stylized cartoon illustrations should help draw readers to the story. Back matter includes four photos, a simple timeline, additional information, and two recommended books.
Reviewer: Kitty Flynn
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