This summer has been an interesting one for me. I have tried to focus on myself since self-care is my "word" for 2024. However, as life always does there have been twists and turns. In the beginning of July Hazel decided she did want to apply to an arts school where she would be boarding. It is a major life change and also means Steve and I have to figure out the financial side of it. As we went through this process, I noticed Hazel had two modes. She either wanted to be left alone to work or think or she wanted to watch television with me. She got into the boarding school and will be leaving home the end of August. I'm excited for the chance for her as well as the change as my family enters the next stage on our journey. One thing she did want to watch was the women's gymnastics in the Olympics. She loves all of the women on the United States team. The Olympics also was an uplifting experience this summer. Whether it was seeing Snoop Dogg at the various events with his supportive t-shirts and outfits or watching the athletes supporting one another. It was the change I know I needed in our world. There was a sense of togetherness, support and patriotism. I felt like it brought our torn country back together at least a bit. While I shared a round-up of books about and by former Olympics gold medalists a couple of weeks ago I wanted to share one about a current one. Simone Biles seemed like the perfect choice. So today I get to share with you All About Simone Biles by Color Craft. This book is recommended for ages 8 to 16. It is definitely written for the younger side of the range. You can also purchase at Amazon.
From the Publisher:
Inspiring stories, facts and trivia about a worldwide gymnastics icon: All the history, details and incredible feats you need to know as a superfan of Simone Biles.The ultimate superfan book - go ‘inside’ in the life of the greatest gymnasts of all time: Simone Biles.
From Olympic gold medals to Word Championship titles, All About Simone Biles is a must-read for young gymnastics fans. In this one-of-a-kind biography for kids 8 and up, readers will learn all about Simone’s iconic achievements in the world of gymnastics, as well as her inspiring positivity and joy for the sport... plus the hard-working attitude and perseverance that led her to greatness.
Perfect for that special gift, classroom reading, or as an addition to any young reader's book collection, "All About Simone Biles" is sure to entertain, educate, and inspire.
The first and ONLY Simone Biles book to feature: Biography of Simone's life, intriguing "Did you know" sections, unique illustrations, essential superfan trivia AND a timeline of her historic achievements on and off the mat.
Why kids 7+ love this book:
- Simone's Journey: From foster care to Olympic gold. Follow Simone from her early days in Columbus, Ohio, to becoming the greatest gymnast in the world. Learn how her determination, family support, and love for gymnastics turned her into a superstar.
- Beyond Gymnastics: Simone's impact off the mat. Discover Simone's dedication to charity work, mental health advocacy, and her joyful personality. Get to know the amazing woman behind the gold medals and world records.
- Life Lessons mixed with fun stories: More than just routines. What we can all learn from Simone: hard work, resilience, and staying positive. Perfect for young readers looking for motivation and inspiration in their own lives.
- Vivid Storytelling: Competitions, challenges, and personal triumphs. Packed with memorable anecdotes, exciting competition recaps, and personal insights, the reader will feel like they're right alongside Simone during her most pivotal moments.
- Get involved: Test your knowledge. Become a true Simone expert. With trivia challenges, fun facts, and a timeline of her career - even the most dedicated superfans will learn new insights about Simone Biles.
All About Simone Biles is an essential read for any young sports fan. Not just a biography - readers will learn, be inspired, test their knowledge, and be entertained for hours with a fun read, packed with Simone-inspired illustrations and pictures.
Snapshot of the book:
- The Gymnast Who Defied Gravity (Introduction)
- 6 Chapters covering Simone's life, from foster care to becoming the most decorated gymnast of all time
- Dozens of unique, fun facts and stories
- Beyond the Gym: Lessons from an icon (Conclusion)
- Simone Biles Trivia Challenge - 30 intriguing questions to test your knowledge (with answers at the end)
- Simone’s Climb: Rise of a Champion (Timeline of key moments)
From Me:
This book shares the early life of Simone Biles as well as her achievements as a gymnast as well as her life achievements. It is written so it will be easy for an 8-year-old to read and understand and enjoy. Throughout the book there are little asides explaining things or pointing out some important thing. There are also illustrations. I loved learning about some of her interests outside of the world of gymnastics. Let's face it, Simone Biles is a role model for our young girls, and it is amazing to see how well rounded she is as a person. The book shares her interest in cooking as well as her charity work. It talks about how she is a role model. She is always high fiving, smiling, and encouraging her fellow athletes both on her team and the competitors. We saw this at this year's Olympics. How she and Jordan Chiles bowed down on the podium to Brazil's Rebeca Andrade when she won the gold. It also talks about how she has been an advocate for mental health. It shares about her getting the twisties at Tokyo and taking a break to make sure her mental health was in check. Let's face it, Simone Biles is a rock star!! She is the type of woman we want young girls to learn from!
The book shares many of her accolades. It shares about the gymnastic moves named after her. It shares some of the awards she has been given and her visiting the White House. It talks about her being on Dancing with the Stars. There are so many fun things shared about Simone. One thing I thought was strange is it does not mention her husband or her being married. This book gives readers a glimpse at who Simone really is. It is perfect for the middle grades and lower middle school readers. At the end of the book is a 30-question trivia challenge as well as a timeline. There is also a link for a free coloring book. So, if you have a Simone Biles fan in your life, be sure to check out this book!! You will be able to hold on to the Simone from the Olympics a little longer!
