Proud (Young Readers Edition): Living My American Dream

Description

At the 2016 Rio Olympics, Ibtihaj Muhammad smashed barriers as the first American to compete wearing hijab, and made history as the first Muslim-American woman to medal. She now shares her unforgettable tale of perseverance and faith. Raised in a working-class community in New Jersey with five siblings, Ibtihaj sought out sports as a means to fund college -- and fencing was one of the only sports in which she could participate fully clothed. She was fast, hardworking, and devoted to her faith. But in a sport most popular with privileged young white people, Ibtihaj often felt out of place. Rivals and teammates (as well as coaches and officials) pointed out her differences, insisting she would never succeed. Yet Ibtihaj powered on, rising above bigotry and other struggles on the path to her dream. Her inspiring journey from a young outsider to a national hero is a relatable, memorable, and uniquely American tale of hard work, determination, and self-reliance. This edition, publishing simultaneously with Ibtihaj's adult memoir with Hachette Books, will feature exclusive stories and photos for young readers.

Ibtihaj Muhammad is best known for being the first Muslim American woman to wear hijab while competing for the United States in the Olympics and the first female Muslim-American athlete to medal in the Olympics, winning bronze with Team USA's Team Sabre. She grew up in Maplewood, New Jersey, the daughter of a retired police officer and an elementary school special education teacher. She lives in New York City.

Praise for Proud (Young Readers Edition): A New York Public Library Best Book of 2018 Engaging...Muhammad's ability to face down multiple challenges will doubtless be inspiring to young readers.--The Washington Post * eye-opening...[Ibtihaj] Muhammad's story is an inspiring one that will encourage readers to question what it means to be American.--Booklist, starred review * Fencer and Olympic medalist Muhammad pens an eminently readable account of her childhood through her win at the 2016 Rio Olympics in this must-have memoir.--School Library Journal, starred review * Readers who are already fans of [Ibtihaj] Muhammad will love her even more, and all readers will gain much inspiration from this heartfelt memoir of a true American hero. Like Muhammad herself, this book is a timely gift to us all.--Kirkus Reviews, starred review compulsively readable and highly relatable. --VOYA