Martina and Chrissie - Book Review for Learning about Women in History

Disclosure: Candlewick Press gave me a copy of this book free of charge to review. All opinions in my review are my own and I did not receive any other compensation. As in all my reviews I am providing links for your ease, but receive no compensation.

I like to focus on women from different walks of life each March. So far this month we have shared books on a female scientist at NASA, the first female pilot and First Ladies with a special look at Eleanor Roosevelt. Today we are taking a look at sports. In the past we have looked at women that are figure skaters and professional baseball players in the past. Today we are taking a look at two very famous tennis players. The book is Martina & Chrissie: The Greatest Rivalry in the History of Sports by Phil Bildner and illustrated by Brett Helquist. 

 Now even as someone who does not follow tennis or play, I have heard of Martina Navratilova and Chris Evert. I am guessing you have as well. This book shares the history of these women and their friendship and rivalry. Each has had an amazing career in tennis and they have played against each other eighty times. They are competition to each other as well as friends. Their competition helped each of them improve her game. This book takes a look at the amazing relationship of these women. The overall message shares the friendly competition and the inspiration each gave the other.

I love this last page of the story. Who was better? It always depends on what you consider as better. Each woman has been number one in tennis. Each woman has had her moment with the crowds. I think they are both winners especially since they also share a good friendship with one another.

 The illustrations in this book are fun and remind me a bit of caricatures. However you can see the motion in the action shots. Overall this book brings some current history to our young ones. Do you follow tennis? Who do you think was better? I hope you will check out this book and share it with your kids.