Ashlie (she/her) is an educator, librarian, and writer. She is committed to diversifying the reading lives of her students and supporting fat acceptance as it intersects with other women’s issues. She's also perpetually striving to learn more about how she can use her many privileges to support marginalized groups. Interests include learning how to roller skate with her local roller derby team, buying more books than she'll ever read, hiking with her husband and sons, and making lists to avoid real work. You can find her on Instagram (@ashlieelizabeth), Twitter (@mygirlsimple) or at her website, www.ashlieswicker.com.
Picture book biographies about athletes do more than share records and trophies — they tell the stories of people who dared to break barriers and redefine what strength looks like. For children, these books shine a light on athletes who have often been overlooked: disabled athletes who shatter barriers, women who refuse to accept “no” as they strive toward their goals, and athletes whose bodies defy narrow standards of who is eligible to compete. By celebrating these trailblazers, young readers learn that courage, resilience, and self-belief matter far more than fitting a mold — and that greatness comes in every shape, size, and background.
Below, I’ve gathered some titles that dive into the lives of favorite athletes and introduce some new stars who you’ll want to add to the repertoire. Going beyond the typical ideas of what a champion looks like, these stories reinforce that athletes come in all kinds of bodies and traditions. Some are in series that you’ll want to explore, and others are stand-alone books that belong on your shelf. Read on to find some sports stories that will make even the most inside-kid reader (me!) want to get out there and play.
The Golden Girls of Rio by Nikkolas Smith
Meet Simone Manuel, an Olympic medalist in swimming; Michelle Carter, a shot put gold medalist; Katie Ledecky, a world record holder in swimming; and Simone Biles, the most decorated American gymnast. Smith brings us to the 2016 Summer Olympics in Rio de Janeiro and gives a brief intro to the athletes mentioned above, along with other fellow competitors. Striking illustrations are uplifting and exciting for all readers, but especially for little girls dreaming of their future athletic accomplishments!
All Access Readers read on for more fantastic picture book sports stories!
Ashlie (she/her) is an educator, librarian, and writer. She is committed to diversifying the reading lives of her students and supporting fat acceptance as it intersects with other women’s issues. She’s also perpetually striving to learn more about how she can use her many privileges to support marginalized groups. Interests include learning how to roller skate with her local roller derby team, buying more books than she’ll ever read, hiking with her husband and sons, and making lists to avoid real work. You can find her on Instagram (@ashlieelizabeth), Twitter (@mygirlsimple) or at her website, www.ashlieswicker.com.
Little People, Big Dreams: Leo Messi by Maria Isabel Sanchez Vegara by Florencia Gavilán
This biography series is a fan favorite in my elementary school library. Accessible storylines and charming illustrations draw readers again and again, and Messi himself makes this book irresistible. Whether you call it football or soccer, this star’s story is a great read. Inspire a young player or an enthusiastic fan with details about Messi as a child, putting in the hours of practice to lead to his celebrated career and stardom.
Fastest woman on Earth: The story of Tatyana McFadden by Francesca Cavallo and Luis San Vicente
When discussing athletes, we often err on the side of ableism. It might not be purposeful, but it doesn’t change the harm. How frequently are we introducing our children to books about disabled athletes, fat athletes, or athletes overcoming mental illnesses and cognitive disabilities? There is time to course correct! Meet the fastest woman on Earth, Tatyana McFadden, a paralympian with 17 medals who never allowed her start in an orphanage or her spina bifida slow her down. Keep an eye on this series for more biographies about paralympians!
Daughter of the Light-Footed People: The Story of Indigenous Marathon Champion Lorena Ramírez by Belen Medina and Natalia Rojas Castro
Lorena Ramirez doesn’t need fancy gear, high-tech support, or the newest shoes to be an absolute champion ultramarathon runner. Following in the tradition of her people, the Indigenous Rarámuri athlete from Mexico runs in rubber sandals and skirts. This story is told using energetic words and gorgeous illustrations, engaging the readers with a rhythm that matches a 60-mile marathon through the desert. Add to the image we have of a runner by reminding young readers that people were doing this long before running bibs, tracking apps, and power gel by introducing them to the Daughter of the Light-Footed People.
Hopefully, you’ve found some picture book biographies about athletes to inspire the children (and adults!) in your life. Looking for more great biographies for kids? Check out these picture book biographies about Black changemakers and these children’s biographies for budding historians. Happy reading!
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