Rising Above: How 11 Athletes Overcame Challenges in Their Youth to Become Stars

Rising Above is an inspiring nonfiction chapter book that chronicles the journeys of 11 celebrated athletes who faced significant personal and physical challenges during their formative years. Through engaging narratives, it reveals how stars like Tim Howard (Tourette Syndrome), Stephen Curry (told he was too small), and Jim Abbott (born without a right hand) defied expectations and achieved extraordinary success in their respective sports. This book is perfect for children aged 8-11, offering powerful lessons in resilience, self-belief, and the importance of hard work, making it an excellent resource for discussions about overcoming adversity and pursuing dreams.

Team USA goalkeeper Tim Howard was diagnosed with Tourette Syndrome in 6th grade. He went on to become a national treasure after single-handedly keeping America competitive in the 2014 World Cup. Stephen Curry was told he was too small, too weak, and too slow to even receive a scholarship to play college basketball. He outworked everyone and went on to become MVP of the National Basketball Association. Jim Abbott was born without his right hand, yet he refused to be defined by what he lacked. He went on to pitch a no-hitter in the Major Leagues.