Who Is the Man in the Air? Michael Jordan

Reach for this book when your child is facing their first major setback or feeling discouraged because they did not make a team or pass a test. This biography of Michael Jordan is the ultimate case study in grit. While the world knows him as a legend, this book focuses heavily on his early failures, specifically being cut from his high school varsity basketball team. It provides a relatable entry point for children to understand that talent is not just born, it is forged through practice and refusal to give up. It is an ideal pick for teaching the value of a growth mindset through a high interest lens. The narrative is clear and accessible for middle grade readers, balancing sports excitement with the emotional reality of hard work and competition. It helps children frame 'failure' as a necessary step toward success rather than an end point.