Game Changers: Stories of Hijabi Athletes from around the World

Gr 4-7–Introductions to various female Muslim athletes from around the world are presented in this volume that focuses on the significance of the hijab for them. Readers learn of 2016 Olympian Doaa Elghobashy, who was the first to wear the hijab in beach volleyball; weightlifter Latifah McBryde, who successfully convinced the NCAA to allow a modest uniform in competition; and Shirin Gerami, who was the first Iranian athlete to successfully complete a triathlon. Throughout the narrative, Smith successfully dispels the myth that Muslim women must be submissive and refrain from participating in sports. She also points out the challenges these women have faced; for instance, Afghani soccer player Hajar Abulfazl endured misogynistic comments from her uncles. However, there is a dearth of personal information and almost no dates (not even when the subjects were born), except for referencing specific events, such as the 2016 Olympics. Although the artwork depicting each athlete is useful, there are no photographs. Despite these minor flaws, the book will enlighten those interested in Islamic women’s opportunities and achievements in sports.