Profiles in Sports Courage

Description

A dozen of the twentieth-century's greatest and most courageous athletes show how they overcame difficult obstacles to make a lasting impact not only in their sport but also on society. Veteran author and journalist Ken Rappoport showcases some lesser-known athletes such as Junko Tabei, the first woman to climb Everest, as well as famous athletes like Jackie Robinson, the first Black American to play in Major League Baseball, and race car pioneer Janet Guthrie, the first woman to qualify for the Indy 500. Each dramatic, action-packed profile shows how these talented athletes overcame such serious challenges as racism, sexism, and severe illness. Young readers will find in each of these inspiring men and women the bravery, perseverance, and dedication that made them outstanding athletes during their own times and strong role models for today.

Ken Rappoport is the author of dozens of sports books for young readers and adults. He was a writer for The Associated Press for thirty years, covering every major professional and college sport. He died in 2020.

"Inspiring. . . this title may encourage readers to dscover their own athletic potential, courage, and self-confidence."-Booklist "A well-known and respected sports writer, Rappoport describes with vivid descriptions and dialogue how each athlete faced and overcame overwhelming challenges to leave a positive legacy on the lives of others. . . Anyone interested in sports will enjoy reading about the challenges and accomplishments of these individuals."-School Library Journal