A parent might reach for this book when their child is facing a setback and needs a real-life example of resilience and courage. This biography tells the incredible true story of Bethany Hamilton, a talented young surfer who lost her arm in a shark attack. Instead of giving up, she found the strength, through her faith and family, to not only recover but to return to competitive surfing. The book beautifully illustrates themes of perseverance, bravery in the face of fear, and finding a new sense of self-confidence after a life-altering event. As an accessible chapter book, it's perfect for readers aged 7 to 10, offering a powerful and inspiring message that challenges are not dead ends but opportunities for growth.
The book deals directly with a traumatic injury and resulting physical disability. The shark attack is described factually, but not graphically, in a way that is appropriate for the target age range. The approach to her recovery is deeply rooted in her Christian faith, which is presented as a primary and explicit source of her resilience. The resolution is extremely hopeful and positions Bethany as a triumphant, inspirational hero.
Ideal Reader
This is for a 7 to 10-year-old child who is an athlete, has experienced a physical injury, or is feeling deeply discouraged by a challenge. It's particularly powerful for a child who believes a physical limitation or a setback means they have to give up on their passion.
Parent Prep
A parent should preview the chapter describing the shark attack to gauge its appropriateness for their child's sensitivity level. It is also important for parents to be prepared to discuss the central role of Christian faith in the story, whether to align with it or to frame it as what motivated this particular person. The book can be read without much external context, but these conversations will enrich the experience. A parent might seek this book after their child says, "I can't do this anymore," after an injury, a diagnosis, or a failure in a beloved activity. The trigger is the child's feeling of hopelessness or the belief that their circumstances define their limits.
Age Experience
A younger reader (7-8) will likely focus on the dramatic external events: a girl who loves surfing gets hurt by a shark but is brave and surfs again. An older reader (9-10) will be better able to appreciate the internal journey: the immense mental fortitude required, the importance of a support system, and the role of faith in shaping one's response to tragedy.
What Makes It Special
Unlike many biographies for this age, this book's power lies in the raw, physical drama of the central event. While other books focus on overcoming systemic barriers, this one focuses on overcoming a sudden, life-altering physical trauma. The explicit and central role of Christian faith as a motivator is also a significant differentiator from more secular inspirational stories.
Read plot summary
This biography, part of the "She Persisted" series, follows the life of surfer Bethany Hamilton. It covers her childhood in a surfing family in Hawaii, her early success as a young athlete, and the traumatic shark attack at age 13 that resulted in the loss of her left arm. The narrative focuses on her immediate recovery, her family's support, and her deep Christian faith as sources of strength. The core of the book details her remarkable and swift return to surfing, her adaptation to surfing with one arm, and her eventual success as a professional surfer and inspirational figure.
This overview was generated by AI based on the book's content and reviews, and may not capture every nuance.
Discussion Prompts
1
When Bethany was in the hospital, she had to decide if she would try to surf again. What do you think gave her the courage to make that choice?
2
Bethany's family and friends were very important to her recovery. What are some specific things they did to help her stay positive and get back on her board?
3
The book says Bethany's faith helped her. What do you think that means? How can believing in something bigger than yourself help when things are hard?
4
Bethany had to learn a new way to do almost everything, including surfing. Can you think of a time you had to learn a new way to do something? How did you feel?
5
After the attack, Bethany became famous and an inspiration to many people. Do you think this changed her reasons for surfing? Why or why not?
