
A parent might reach for this book when their child expresses curiosity about athletes with disabilities or to introduce themes of resilience and inclusion. This nonfiction book explains the history and spirit of both the Special Olympics, for athletes with intellectual disabilities, and the Paralympics, for athletes with physical disabilities. It uses photographs and straightforward text to showcase a variety of adaptive sports and celebrate the dedication and joy of the competitors. It’s an excellent choice for opening conversations about diversity, perseverance, and seeing challenges as opportunities for incredible achievement.
The book's central theme is disability. The approach is direct, secular, and positive, framing disability not as a limitation but as a characteristic of athletes who have adapted sports to showcase their incredible abilities. The overall tone is hopeful and empowering, focusing on achievement and community.
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Sign in to write a reviewThis book is ideal for a 7 to 10 year old who has seen the Paralympics on TV and has questions. It is also perfect for a child who wants to understand the experiences of a classmate with a physical or intellectual disability, or for any young sports fan to broaden their understanding of athleticism.
Given its 1991 publication date, parents should preview the book. The photography and some terminology might feel dated. This can be a valuable teaching moment to discuss how language around disability has evolved. For example, a parent can explain why we now often prefer person first language (e.g., "an athlete with a disability") over labels that may have been used in the past. A parent might seek this book after their child asks a question like, "Why is that person in a wheelchair?" or makes an observation about someone being different. It is also a great resource if a child is feeling discouraged by their own perceived limitations in sports or other activities.
A younger reader (age 7-8) will likely focus on the dynamic photographs and the novelty of the different sports. They will take away a message of inclusion and ability. An older reader (age 9-10) can better appreciate the historical context, the distinction between the Special Olympics and Paralympics, and the themes of social change and perseverance.
What makes this book unique is its vintage. As a 1991 publication, it serves as a historical document of how these games were viewed and presented decades ago. It also notably covers both the Special Olympics and the Paralympics in one introductory volume, whereas many modern books focus on one or the other. Its simplicity and directness make it a very accessible entry point to the topic.
This nonfiction book provides a foundational overview of the Special Olympics and the Paralympics for young readers. It covers the origins of both movements, crediting figures like Eunice Kennedy Shriver and Sir Ludwig Guttmann. The book uses accessible text and documentary style photographs from the era to explain various adaptive sports, such as wheelchair basketball, track and field events, and swimming. The focus is on the athletes' determination, sportsmanship, and the celebratory spirit of the games.
This overview was generated by AI based on the book's content and reviews, and may not capture every nuance.