April 1, 2024
Gr 4-6-Each book in this series begins with an excerpt from a game or race from an athlete's perspective, before moving on to an overview of each sport, its equipment and history, and ends with thumbnail sketches of noteworthy athletes. Straightforward prose is complemented by photos and diagrams, especially helpful in detailing equipment such as monoskis or delineating a sitting volleyball court. Paralympic competitions have grown to include athletes from around the world, including China's para swimmer Tao Zheng, who has won 10 medals after just two Olympics. Along with a glossary and resource list, each book includes three questions that focus on empathy, including: "Why is it important to offer opportunities for disabled people to compete in sports?" VERDICT These readable accounts offer concise introductions to these sports, and the inspiring athletes who compete in them.
Copyright 2024 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.
April 1, 2024
Grades 3-6 Olson expertly covers the basics of para cycling in this installment in the Paralympic Sports series (8 titles), covering para cycling competitions, including classification, entry and evaluation, road and track races, and the types of bikes used. Through the examples of a few Paralympic athletes, he demonstrates how athletes train and compete, emphasizing that anyone, with or without impairment, can be an athlete. Quality color images depict athletes with a variety of disabilities in the midst of racing or training and different types of para cycling bikes used in the sport. Back matter includes a glossary, fun facts, and a brief list of recommended titles for further exploration of the topic. While aimed at an elementary-age audience, this title may also fit the needs of older reluctant readers.
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