
Reach for this book when your child is facing a setback or feels limited by their circumstances. It is a powerful choice for families navigating adoption or foster care, as well as for young athletes who need to understand that talent is only half the battle. This biography follows Simone Biles from her early years in foster care to her rise as the greatest gymnast of all time, emphasizing the importance of a strong support system and the courage to keep trying. Written for early elementary schoolers, it balances the reality of her difficult start with the joy of her eventual success. Parents will appreciate how it frames resilience not just as individual grit, but as something nurtured by a loving family. It is an inspiring tool for building self-confidence and a growth mindset.
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Sign in to write a reviewBrief, age-appropriate mention of biological mother's struggles with drugs/alcohol.
The book addresses Simone's biological mother's struggle with substance abuse and the transition into foster care. The approach is direct but gentle, framed for a young audience. It remains secular and concludes with a highly hopeful, triumphant resolution. It also briefly mentions her ADHD diagnosis in a matter-of-fact, destigmatizing way.
An 8-year-old who loves sports but gets easily discouraged by mistakes, or a child in a kinship care or adoptive family looking for a hero who shares their background.
Parents should be prepared to discuss what foster care is in simple terms. The book can be read cold, but having a conversation about Simone's 'found family' adds depth to the reading experience. A child expressing that they aren't 'good enough' to try something new, or a child asking sensitive questions about why some kids don't live with their birth parents.
Six-year-olds will be captivated by the gymnastics feats and the bright illustrations. Eight- and nine-year-olds will better grasp the nuance of her perseverance and the significance of her breaking racial and athletic barriers.
Unlike many sports biographies that focus purely on stats, this book centers on the emotional transition from foster care to adoption, making her success feel deeply personal and grounded in family love.
The book chronicles the life of Simone Biles, beginning with her early childhood in foster care and her subsequent adoption by her grandparents. It follows her discovery of gymnastics during a school field trip, her intensive training years, her struggle with ADHD, and her eventual dominance in the world of competitive sports. The narrative focuses on her record-breaking moves and her path to the Olympics.
This overview was generated by AI based on the book's content and reviews, and may not capture every nuance.