Ibtihaj Muhammad

Reach for this book when your child is grappling with the feeling of being an outsider or needs a tangible example of how personal identity can coexist with high-level achievement. This biography follows the journey of Ibtihaj Muhammad, the first American athlete to compete in the Olympics while wearing a hijab. It explores how she navigated the world of fencing, a sport where she initially felt out of place, and transformed her difference into a source of strength. Ideal for ages 8 to 12, this narrative focuses heavily on self-confidence and resilience. Parents will appreciate the way it frames the hijab not just as a religious garment, but as a symbol of integrity and courage. It provides a clear, age-appropriate window into the challenges of being a pioneer and the importance of staying true to one's heritage even under the global spotlight of the Olympic Games.