Wings of an Eagle: The Gold Medal Dreams of Billy Mills

K-Gr 3–As he steps up to the starting line of the 10,000 meter race of the 1964 Olympic Games, Billy Mills reflects on the hardships and challenges that he overcame to arrive at this moment. Growing up on the Pine Ridge Reservation, the lands of the Oglala Lakota Nation in South Dakota, Mills is surrounded by the love of his family and community. Throughout his childhood, Mills encounters racist bullies, health challenges, discrimination from institutions, as well as the loss of his mother and father. Before Mills’s father passes, he encouraged Mills to pursue his dreams. Back at the Tokyo Games, Mills keeps pace with the leaders before slipping a few spots—only to think of his father’s words, which propel him to be the first American to win a gold medal in the 10,000 meter race. Returning to the reservation for a celebration after his victory, he is given a Lakota name and makes plans to share his thanks and blessings with his community through a Traditional Giveaway ceremony. The text beautifully blends the runner’s experiences and memories with the excitement and significance of running and winning the race, perfectly complemented by Nelson’s liquid acrylic illustrations that also feature strategic use of wing and eagle imagery. Extensive back matter includes illustrator’s notes, accounts from Mills and additional facts about his life, and a list of achievements, dates, and sources.