
Reach for this book when your child is facing a setback or feels like their natural talents aren't enough to reach their big goals. It is a powerful tool for those moments when a child wants to give up on a sport or hobby because they are not the best on the team yet. Written by Michael Jordan's mother, the story focuses on Michael as a young boy with Olympic dreams who must learn that greatness is built through discipline, practice, and the support of family. This biographical story emphasizes that even the greatest athletes started with a dream and a lot of hard work. It is perfectly pitched for children ages 4 to 8, providing a relatable entry point into themes of perseverance and long-term goal setting. Parents will appreciate how the book shifts the focus from Michael's fame to his childhood work ethic, making his success feel achievable through dedication and grit.
Your experience helps other parents find the right book.
Sign in to write a reviewThe book is secular and realistic. It deals with the frustration of failure and the feeling of inadequacy in a direct, hopeful manner. There are no major traumas, just the universal struggle of a child learning to handle competitive pressure.
An active 6 or 7-year-old who loves sports but gets easily discouraged when they lose a game or struggle to master a new skill like dribbling or shooting.
The book can be read cold. Parents might want to highlight the afterword which provides more historical context on Michael Jordan's actual career to bridge the childhood story with the legend. A parent might see their child throw a ball in frustration or say, I'm just not good at this, after a tough practice.
Younger children (4-5) will focus on the bright illustrations and the excitement of the basketball games. Older children (7-8) will better grasp the concept of the pursuit of excellence and the timeline required to reach a goal.
What makes this unique is the perspective of Deloris Jordan. It feels less like a celebrity biography and more like a mother's testament to the power of a child's will and the importance of parental encouragement.
The story follows a young Michael Jordan who dreams of winning an Olympic gold medal. Despite being smaller than other players and facing early disappointments on the court, Michael receives guidance from his mother and coach. The narrative focuses on his daily commitment to practice, his mental toughness, and his eventual rise to become a member of the 1984 U.S. Olympic basketball team.
This overview was generated by AI based on the book's content and reviews, and may not capture every nuance.