Athletes Who Changed the Game

Gr 4 Up–This collection offers one-page overviews of famous and not-as-famous sports figures (Atoy Wilson, Abby Roque) “who broke barriers, took risks, and pushed back against injustice.” The fight continues for many, including gymnast Gabby Douglas, who became an anti-bullying spokesperson after winning Olympic gold, and transgender NCAA swimmer Lia Thomas. Athletes from a range of sports are included, along with game-changing managers, coaches, and referees. Each individual’s career and accomplishments are summarized in one page, plus a cartoon illustration. The focus is on U.S. athletes with a few exceptions, namely Canadian hockey players Willie O’Ree and Manon Rhéaume, and the first segregated South African rugby team. This well-crafted resource offers two time lines, a bibliography, sections on Title IX, the Paralympics, and the Haudenosaunee Lacrosse team—the first Native American team to play at an international competition. This is a good choice for browsers and readers who’ve enjoyed other entries in this series.