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My favorite class in college was my Shakespeare class. I'm that odd duck who didn't struggle too much in understanding Ye Olde English in junior high, much to my classmates' hatred. My favorite Shakespeare play is King Lear, followed closely by The Merchant of Venice.And like most intelligent people, Jane Austen is who I aspire to be. I love how she wrote about the relationships between people in her society. I loved her books even more when I found out that the people she was criticizing in her books were her biggest fans.So, in honor of the Greats, here are some of my favorite retellings or inspired. And in case you're like me and only like certain stories from Austen or Shakespeare, I'll list them all out so you can cherry-pick.&nbsp;<h3><a data-mce-href="https://www.amazon.com/Secret-Sonnets-Samantha-Hastings-ebook/dp/B0B8F2YLSM/ref=sr_1_1?crid=AXVLORY0TTOV&amp;dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.DR7O_DAYiidMZhPU8aLKK5hlx1WI39cD1Fcy0t3kQOdNM1vNia-Gx-bo8b4XJrYG6WuD_7Mt4H9WRGwpdzPbNU8bz4-HhfPbVouKk5UuPV2JaFA8LUHmGhGjpqRHdy9t0D8SSs3kxsG6dtf-cK0SQo6-zayt6bdh6vQKPhxoI-rF7z5ITAEOlBR8thBruNmYpE8qIS0p7Pr-vVar5nRBuaRI5AhbqG9QuWPNz6d2tRs.biLNfViAbmml6CoXOfjnZIxcKSTDr-HE2WYEkYZ4u6A&amp;dib_tag=se&amp;keywords=secrets+of+the+sonnets&amp;qid=1721412599&amp;sprefix=secre%2Caps%2C2104&amp;sr=8-1" href="https://www.amazon.com/Secret-Sonnets-Samantha-Hastings-ebook/dp/B0B8F2YLSM/ref=sr_1_1?crid=AXVLORY0TTOV&amp;dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.DR7O_DAYiidMZhPU8aLKK5hlx1WI39cD1Fcy0t3kQOdNM1vNia-Gx-bo8b4XJrYG6WuD_7Mt4H9WRGwpdzPbNU8bz4-HhfPbVouKk5UuPV2JaFA8LUHmGhGjpqRHdy9t0D8SSs3kxsG6dtf-cK0SQo6-zayt6bdh6vQKPhxoI-rF7z5ITAEOlBR8thBruNmYpE8qIS0p7Pr-vVar5nRBuaRI5AhbqG9QuWPNz6d2tRs.biLNfViAbmml6CoXOfjnZIxcKSTDr-HE2WYEkYZ4u6A&amp;dib_tag=se&amp;keywords=secrets+of+the+sonnets&amp;qid=1721412599&amp;sprefix=secre%2Caps%2C2104&amp;sr=8-1" target="_blank" rel="noopener">1. Secret of the Sonnets by Samantha Hastings</a></h3>Unless you are a die-hard Shakespeare fan, you might not know about the great <a data-mce-href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shakespeare_authorship_question" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shakespeare_authorship_question" target="_blank" rel="noopener">authorship question</a>. Many believe Shakespeare may not be the real author of his plays, though the majority of believers are from outside the academic world. The most popular theory is that Sir Francis Bacon was the true author, but there's a short list of others.Samantha Hastings presents her authorship theory in Secret of the Sonnets, a regency romance with a delightful mystery backing the entire plot. While we might never know who truly wrote Shakespeare's plays, Secret of the Sonnets will no doubt pull you into these harmless conspiracy theories too.<h3><a data-mce-href="https://www.amazon.com/My-Wild-Heart-Regency-Shakespeare/dp/B08B37VRS7/ref=sr_1_1?crid=3B3IAWULMX6P&amp;dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.k7tbXhEuk5_vXJFvu9UDfIjiIa5Y7h2NLcaNRaEykW7GjHj071QN20LucGBJIEps.PGwiN-lsD656c-zyjNI7ACyt1bV7x2CWasol1oXhYyk&amp;dib_tag=se&amp;keywords=my+wild+heart+martha+keyes&amp;qid=1721412489&amp;sprefix=my+wild+heart+martha+ke%2Caps%2C245&amp;sr=8-1" href="https://www.amazon.com/My-Wild-Heart-Regency-Shakespeare/dp/B08B37VRS7/ref=sr_1_1?crid=3B3IAWULMX6P&amp;dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.k7tbXhEuk5_vXJFvu9UDfIjiIa5Y7h2NLcaNRaEykW7GjHj071QN20LucGBJIEps.PGwiN-lsD656c-zyjNI7ACyt1bV7x2CWasol1oXhYyk&amp;dib_tag=se&amp;keywords=my+wild+heart+martha+keyes&amp;qid=1721412489&amp;sprefix=my+wild+heart+martha+ke%2Caps%2C245&amp;sr=8-1" target="_blank" rel="noopener">2. My Wild Heart by Martha Keyes</a></h3>Much Ado About Nothing gets an update to a regency romance in My Wild Heart; the language is still old compared to now, but at least it's easier to understand than Shakespearean English.Edith and Elias are sworn enemies until they overhear that the other might be in love with them. While each does not initially believe this rumor, it has made their interactions far from graceful. And their friends didn't count on the love Edith and Elias have for practical jokes, but will the payback help or hurt all involved?Martha Keyes started on Kindle Unlimited, but I've started seeing her books in public libraries. I hope you love her as much as I do!<h3><a data-mce-href="https://www.amazon.com/Little-Ado-About-Love-Second-Chance-ebook/dp/B08FJH2BCB/ref=sr_1_1?dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.Efz-yhUThywP4ugsQLoM_PBkXDSuXrQiw9N8ebCjk7fMNnCp8JPq8OvSZojzquWlEL5WbIiR6BZjMtHb_0ADmGbTmOCnL6olzTD-8Edyle6FHfa3oF7AiQB7KSz6o4q8VwpfC3iLvIJ8fmWvtlTpqfuX1lD-2slH2eU43C-b5ySsrKBB25MlUNZho7PJmOGzamSPPBYV_ScPPl1vQKcrECvKuHT5dK6c8mgzZZO4x6vCCk2i1ui_bK4HIMfIl_g3HLVHGVUejCyGzw0-o3FYHPpTe9btypWNtrjj7HT_-gE.STrihcxnDVv1FLyB2V-OxCOU1zBNvqCnBYpmxJPDRyU&amp;dib_tag=se&amp;keywords=a+little+ado+about+love&amp;qid=1721412337&amp;sr=8-1" href="https://www.amazon.com/Little-Ado-About-Love-Second-Chance-ebook/dp/B08FJH2BCB/ref=sr_1_1?dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.Efz-yhUThywP4ugsQLoM_PBkXDSuXrQiw9N8ebCjk7fMNnCp8JPq8OvSZojzquWlEL5WbIiR6BZjMtHb_0ADmGbTmOCnL6olzTD-8Edyle6FHfa3oF7AiQB7KSz6o4q8VwpfC3iLvIJ8fmWvtlTpqfuX1lD-2slH2eU43C-b5ySsrKBB25MlUNZho7PJmOGzamSPPBYV_ScPPl1vQKcrECvKuHT5dK6c8mgzZZO4x6vCCk2i1ui_bK4HIMfIl_g3HLVHGVUejCyGzw0-o3FYHPpTe9btypWNtrjj7HT_-gE.STrihcxnDVv1FLyB2V-OxCOU1zBNvqCnBYpmxJPDRyU&amp;dib_tag=se&amp;keywords=a+little+ado+about+love&amp;qid=1721412337&amp;sr=8-1" target="_blank" rel="noopener">3. A Little Ado About Love by Emily Childs</a></h3>If you struggle to love the antics of Much Ado About Nothing, you might give this book a try.Main characters Elle and Axel used to love each other, but toxic relationships and fickle hearts got in the way. Set in a modern-day small town, A Little Ado About Love gives you the basis of Shakespeare's play but the attitudes of more mature love interests in a second-chance romance.While not a perfect translation, I think you'll love this enough to want to watch the movie at least :-)<h3><a data-mce-href="https://www.amazon.com/Letters-Juliet-Celebrating-Shakespeares-Greatest/dp/1584799129/ref=sr_1_1?crid=FIVDUMPWWX03&amp;dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.B0jGoe9s25aL5QTJz06nzckaderpOQU4ZHE4ngjOASnbhRVbAFb8kCxP9NX2styFsKFVZOCDbsWHGod1jKEpt47lhgGeKKqfmSbDll4bb3AG0ZOJkJJJDQ5iVdtVpx3e-jCKJDMXhSNHq36Oq9D5z9uJUrm480CAtnjIeQMWT8yjq7MSPVMBEI3k_h7MF5FudUksxa3itEZ6mEQrlwmemZJp0i8x4k5De7RTFZ_ELLk.87P_UT1JiKcquXBUSOpVSPUsqHSlmGbeOnRpK3g-ZKk&amp;dib_tag=se&amp;keywords=letters+to+juliet+book&amp;qid=1721412253&amp;sprefix=letters+to+juliet+book%2Caps%2C772&amp;sr=8-1" href="https://www.amazon.com/Letters-Juliet-Celebrating-Shakespeares-Greatest/dp/1584799129/ref=sr_1_1?crid=FIVDUMPWWX03&amp;dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.B0jGoe9s25aL5QTJz06nzckaderpOQU4ZHE4ngjOASnbhRVbAFb8kCxP9NX2styFsKFVZOCDbsWHGod1jKEpt47lhgGeKKqfmSbDll4bb3AG0ZOJkJJJDQ5iVdtVpx3e-jCKJDMXhSNHq36Oq9D5z9uJUrm480CAtnjIeQMWT8yjq7MSPVMBEI3k_h7MF5FudUksxa3itEZ6mEQrlwmemZJp0i8x4k5De7RTFZ_ELLk.87P_UT1JiKcquXBUSOpVSPUsqHSlmGbeOnRpK3g-ZKk&amp;dib_tag=se&amp;keywords=letters+to+juliet+book&amp;qid=1721412253&amp;sprefix=letters+to+juliet+book%2Caps%2C772&amp;sr=8-1" target="_blank" rel="noopener">4. Letters to Juliet by Lise and Ceil Friedman</a></h3>I know, I know, this is technically a non-fiction book, but I promise you it's worth it, especially if you loved the movie by the same name.The cute wall found in the movie Verona is nothing compared to the real Juliet Club sanctioned by the city. But the volunteers do answer back every single letter Juliet receives.&nbsp;Even the truckloads.Letters to Juliet features over 50 letters received by the Juliet Club. And after you buy the book, you might as well buy your plane ticket. We've got to go and see this place.<h3><a data-mce-href="https://www.amazon.com/Matchmakers-Match-Brittany-Larsen-ebook/dp/B07DXHMR8Y/ref=sr_1_15?crid=3VDXGIFYVJ5PN&amp;dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.WvsgS_qIFnUGvtzsLv7p5qVv22CQ3SxOGhUVdSkXMvuhEsbxnTiVYgHFzBrLO9voFVhBsaTYrBvsESggr09yVOJ-UZ9R_1QyLoynCrMmnczMFikrHNVSrUX-E_fV6QrmtHAZa6y5_F1_aWNmIQOoT7phIRKgMRPUql7J4vJi5VtQLUXIWDnwZhIlZB6AHXiPTd6Gi7AdUTrZ-X3qovaxs5nxeoKcnBSCeYIvYVDCdxA.H8j7XsCK0FnLOtKNFoVpRnAOY7TGsZ3X725odXB3-Hs&amp;dib_tag=se&amp;keywords=brittany+larsen+books&amp;qid=1721412105&amp;sprefix=brittany+larsen%2Caps%2C814&amp;sr=8-15" href="https://www.amazon.com/Matchmakers-Match-Brittany-Larsen-ebook/dp/B07DXHMR8Y/ref=sr_1_15?crid=3VDXGIFYVJ5PN&amp;dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.WvsgS_qIFnUGvtzsLv7p5qVv22CQ3SxOGhUVdSkXMvuhEsbxnTiVYgHFzBrLO9voFVhBsaTYrBvsESggr09yVOJ-UZ9R_1QyLoynCrMmnczMFikrHNVSrUX-E_fV6QrmtHAZa6y5_F1_aWNmIQOoT7phIRKgMRPUql7J4vJi5VtQLUXIWDnwZhIlZB6AHXiPTd6Gi7AdUTrZ-X3qovaxs5nxeoKcnBSCeYIvYVDCdxA.H8j7XsCK0FnLOtKNFoVpRnAOY7TGsZ3X725odXB3-Hs&amp;dib_tag=se&amp;keywords=brittany+larsen+books&amp;qid=1721412105&amp;sprefix=brittany+larsen%2Caps%2C814&amp;sr=8-15" target="_blank" rel="noopener">5. Matchmaker's Match by Brittany Larsen</a></h3>Much as I love Shakespeare, he'll never be able to dethrone the true queen.&nbsp;Jane Austen's Emma has been retold numerous times, and her story continues to fascinate me. Emma isn't exactly a loveable character... mainly because she reminds me too much of myself. Don't get me wrong, I'd love to be the perfect book heroine, but I'm too imperfect and annoying to play that role. Luckily, so is Emma, which is why the book gives me hope for my future!Matchmaker's Match is a beautiful contemporary retelling of Jane Austen's classic. It's a perfect beach read for the summer, but also a perfect anytime read like its inspiration.<h3><a data-mce-href="https://www.amazon.com/Prides-Prejudice-Misty-Dawn-Pulsipher-ebook/dp/B00CYQDTVK/ref=sr_1_1?crid=2WQY08PW9ZYON&amp;dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.gMWkwrYPTLMVycDPdyVgKQ.pGZmS2fg49AiYFYl9XcOa1EoFHo1XgPtMzUDnRzkC44&amp;dib_tag=se&amp;keywords=pride%27s+prejudice+book+misty+dawn&amp;qid=1721411896&amp;sprefix=pride%27s+prejudice+book+misty+dawn%2Caps%2C444&amp;sr=8-1" href="https://www.amazon.com/Prides-Prejudice-Misty-Dawn-Pulsipher-ebook/dp/B00CYQDTVK/ref=sr_1_1?crid=2WQY08PW9ZYON&amp;dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.gMWkwrYPTLMVycDPdyVgKQ.pGZmS2fg49AiYFYl9XcOa1EoFHo1XgPtMzUDnRzkC44&amp;dib_tag=se&amp;keywords=pride%27s+prejudice+book+misty+dawn&amp;qid=1721411896&amp;sprefix=pride%27s+prejudice+book+misty+dawn%2Caps%2C444&amp;sr=8-1" target="_blank" rel="noopener">6. Pride's Prejudice by Misty Dawn Pulsipher</a></h3>Reading with my editor's eye, this book has some issues; the spelling and grammar leave something to be desired. But the fact that I'm recommending it means that the chemistry between the characters is incredible. And no editor could condemn an author with that gift.Pride's Prejudice begins on a Wyoming college campus where Beth Pride is attending a charity auction. Unfortunately, William Darcy is forced there too by his house-flipping friend, and Will is already in a rotten mood. Fireworks ensue and we're off!And you probably won't put it down until you've finished.I love Misty Pulsipher's Pride because she gives us more of a look into Darcy's life, especially his sister's. Georgianna's story is such a catalyst for Darcy, and I think Misty incorporated her into the plot seamlessly.&nbsp;The steam in this book is high, but it remains closed-door and respectable enough to give to your mother. You'll love it so much you'll have to watch all the Pride and Prejudice movies.What a bummer, huh?<h3><a data-mce-href="https://www.amazon.com/Dear-Mr-Darcy-Retelling-Prejudice-ebook/dp/B0072NWK24/ref=sr_1_1?dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.oKmIOryM745eZxG1VKX7rXaAdtCV31nryfbV9gsR6d_zNcaWI5u0rnFxu2PG5sdA3Cs6KWveHYegXueyTUX7S-1oQzAyqFPEm5HDHv0jEMDI4q3FxaKCPbPQ0nI8-nMOY4PuvSOl6SZi9fpt0hLu-dYDJFflDqat5vrWF3832vNJJrlJXL4ZPx8C79SWuTwlB-fEiuueTpTqlRTm5gtPDBtsiQATcqFQNUg9He9peVo.1ZvDdCaZB4a22dBydki84d9qNFS-F1PPIo0YYf136M8&amp;dib_tag=se&amp;keywords=dear+mr+darcy&amp;qid=1721411772&amp;sr=8-1" href="https://www.amazon.com/Dear-Mr-Darcy-Retelling-Prejudice-ebook/dp/B0072NWK24/ref=sr_1_1?dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.oKmIOryM745eZxG1VKX7rXaAdtCV31nryfbV9gsR6d_zNcaWI5u0rnFxu2PG5sdA3Cs6KWveHYegXueyTUX7S-1oQzAyqFPEm5HDHv0jEMDI4q3FxaKCPbPQ0nI8-nMOY4PuvSOl6SZi9fpt0hLu-dYDJFflDqat5vrWF3832vNJJrlJXL4ZPx8C79SWuTwlB-fEiuueTpTqlRTm5gtPDBtsiQATcqFQNUg9He9peVo.1ZvDdCaZB4a22dBydki84d9qNFS-F1PPIo0YYf136M8&amp;dib_tag=se&amp;keywords=dear+mr+darcy&amp;qid=1721411772&amp;sr=8-1" target="_blank" rel="noopener">7. Dear Mr. Darcy by Amanda Grange</a></h3>The day my library's copy of Dear Mr. Darcy fell apart, I held a small funeral by the recycling bin. Please observe a moment of silence with me and then extend it into a reading session.Dear Mr. Darcy abandons the normal narrative and instead presents the entire story in letters. The genius of this move means we get to know what was happening to Mr. Darcy years before he meets Elizabeth, which also means we learn more about the dastardly Mr. Wickham.But even better, we get to see the ridiculous turmoil that Elizabeth sets off in Mr. Darcy and the love he feels for her in return.<h3><a data-mce-href="https://www.amazon.com/Prom-Prejudice-Elizabeth-Eulberg-ebook/dp/B004HD4UHA/ref=sr_1_1?crid=5YPGP18KFT1X&amp;dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.D0VmxuhFFeFWz5QJdrNrX7IPzMHzityA5U05EfuIX9bhowoLGZmx-6o8jUmo9XqCxZ5F1vglyyAL3PTUEeJJLdw650JMe7JThqvQ5gu_rRf8WPpK0xHBNDhzOJ9y_hIsbIWUGgJdauuRswg-iLZcqtRjzPSOyMb75CmtzqVmK_xvROGr5DbzNEGikd6t9OkhVZiY-vGUszyyhEMuHgFGn4m4MIQeNGTdO7-uyvO7ksw.5-uJIy89oJ27nBfbDinU_Eb8k9Q9JVOGA5S-J5IH2Eo&amp;dib_tag=se&amp;keywords=prom+and+prejudice&amp;qid=1721411657&amp;sprefix=prom+and+prej%2Caps%2C1191&amp;sr=8-1" href="https://www.amazon.com/Prom-Prejudice-Elizabeth-Eulberg-ebook/dp/B004HD4UHA/ref=sr_1_1?crid=5YPGP18KFT1X&amp;dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.D0VmxuhFFeFWz5QJdrNrX7IPzMHzityA5U05EfuIX9bhowoLGZmx-6o8jUmo9XqCxZ5F1vglyyAL3PTUEeJJLdw650JMe7JThqvQ5gu_rRf8WPpK0xHBNDhzOJ9y_hIsbIWUGgJdauuRswg-iLZcqtRjzPSOyMb75CmtzqVmK_xvROGr5DbzNEGikd6t9OkhVZiY-vGUszyyhEMuHgFGn4m4MIQeNGTdO7-uyvO7ksw.5-uJIy89oJ27nBfbDinU_Eb8k9Q9JVOGA5S-J5IH2Eo&amp;dib_tag=se&amp;keywords=prom+and+prejudice&amp;qid=1721411657&amp;sprefix=prom+and+prej%2Caps%2C1191&amp;sr=8-1" target="_blank" rel="noopener">8. Prom and Prejudice by Elizabeth Eulberg</a></h3>I'm gonna say it. Young Adult books are often better than adult.Sue me. You'll get, like, two bucks.Prom and Prejudice is set in a private high school, just before prom season begins. It was an ingenious move on Elizabeth Eulbergs part; how else do you replicate the regency snobbery in a contemporary world? Will Darcy, while still stand-offish, is not as hard to like as his counterpart. He's a little more human and forgivable. And the way he loves Lizzie? Your teenage daughter will be swooning, and hopefully she'll go after a boy like him.Fingers crossed for you.<h3><a data-mce-href="https://www.amazon.com/Not-Charlotte-Lucas-Kasey-Stockton-ebook/dp/B0BGJT9XHS/ref=sr_1_1?crid=3EREXD4O1NU3T&amp;dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.8aEfmSgKWMsnr9nxwWQueESovhpI_wUAOyat9PikiAE.AFbc_xuHRza8LVySDk_BMmpu1_wOgZHT35onuVRok84&amp;dib_tag=se&amp;keywords=i%27m+not+charlotte+lucas&amp;qid=1721411529&amp;sprefix=i%27m+not+charlo%2Caps%2C197&amp;sr=8-1" href="https://www.amazon.com/Not-Charlotte-Lucas-Kasey-Stockton-ebook/dp/B0BGJT9XHS/ref=sr_1_1?crid=3EREXD4O1NU3T&amp;dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.8aEfmSgKWMsnr9nxwWQueESovhpI_wUAOyat9PikiAE.AFbc_xuHRza8LVySDk_BMmpu1_wOgZHT35onuVRok84&amp;dib_tag=se&amp;keywords=i%27m+not+charlotte+lucas&amp;qid=1721411529&amp;sprefix=i%27m+not+charlo%2Caps%2C197&amp;sr=8-1" target="_blank" rel="noopener">9. I'm Not Charlotte Lucas by Kasey Stockton</a></h3>Elizabeth Bennett will always be my favorite, but there's a special place in my heart reserved for Charlotte Lucas. Who of us hasn't felt like we're backed into a corner and need to settle to get any traction in life?Now, hopefully, none of us are forced to choose the Mr. Collins of the world, but Kasey Stockton spins a beautiful tale of what happens when you think Mr. Collins is all you deserve.But when you get a shot at a Mr. Darcy chance, are you brave enough to take it?<h3><a data-mce-href="https://www.amazon.com/Sense-Sensibility-Nancy-Butler-ebook/dp/B00DP1E2K0/ref=sr_1_1?crid=1U1NGZK8DOWYZ&amp;dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.twTRzkMIhsnZIVFr-kMy1g.JHXzs3Bn3mhvy4jyHVAEkfjO0DfxJQ4PPgDRbHPwcqE&amp;dib_tag=se&amp;keywords=Sense+and+Sensibility+marvel&amp;qid=1721409982&amp;s=digital-text&amp;sprefix=sense+and+sensibility+marvel%2Cdigital-text%2C187&amp;sr=1-1" href="https://www.amazon.com/Sense-Sensibility-Nancy-Butler-ebook/dp/B00DP1E2K0/ref=sr_1_1?crid=1U1NGZK8DOWYZ&amp;dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.twTRzkMIhsnZIVFr-kMy1g.JHXzs3Bn3mhvy4jyHVAEkfjO0DfxJQ4PPgDRbHPwcqE&amp;dib_tag=se&amp;keywords=Sense+and+Sensibility+marvel&amp;qid=1721409982&amp;s=digital-text&amp;sprefix=sense+and+sensibility+marvel%2Cdigital-text%2C187&amp;sr=1-1" target="_blank" rel="noopener">10. Marvel Illustrated Sense and Sensibility by Nancy Butler</a></h3>The first time I read a comic book, it was for a college class. I never thought I'd like them, but now I stop and glance through them whenever I shelve them at the library.Jane Austen's writing is crazy good, but also crazy hard to understand. Marvel's comic version of Sense and Sensibility blends the context of pictures with Austen's words in a most diverting way.You might even get the men in your life interested in Austen this way. Grab your cup of tea. And Happy Reading!*All links are simply links, I don't get any money if you click them. I just want to make finding great stories as easy as possible for you!* Read Also:<a data-mce-href="https://madeitbymaren.com/blog/6-picture-books-about-practically-perfect-women" href="https://madeitbymaren.com/blog/6-picture-books-about-practically-perfect-women">6 Picture Books About Practically Perfect Women</a><a data-mce-href="https://madeitbymaren.com/blog/6-middle-grade-books-about-the-olympics" href="https://madeitbymaren.com/blog/6-middle-grade-books-about-the-olympics">6 Middle-Grade Books About the Olympics</a><a data-mce-href="https://madeitbymaren.com/blog/just-edited--dimensions-by-sadie-sanchez" href="https://madeitbymaren.com/blog/just-edited--dimensions-by-sadie-sanchez">Just Edited: DIMENSIONS by Sadie Sanchez</a> Want to work with me? Schedule a <a data-mce-href="https://madeitbymaren.com/book-editing-and-proofreading-services" href="https://madeitbymaren.com/book-editing-and-proofreading-services">free editing consultation</a> with Maren! You're bound to leave with a novel idea...Like what you're reading? Follow me on <a data-mce-href="http://www.goodreads.com/marensommer" href="http://www.goodreads.com/marensommer" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Goodreads</a>!

10 Novels Inspired by the Greats

Eiffel Tower under blue sky during daytime

Much as I love my picture books, I don't mind sinking my teeth into the "bigger" story. But the "bigger" stories take longer to read. Thankfully, there's an inbetween; middle-grade books still have plenty of pictures for children, but the text is closer to a chapter book. It's a great option for children in 4th and 5th grade.And adults in a time crunch.So while we're waiting for me to finish those, here are 6 Middle-Grade books about Olympic Athletes.<h3><a data-mce-href="https://www.amazon.com/Wildest-Race-Ever-Olympic-Marathon/dp/1481406396/ref=sr_1_1?crid=11QJYS3A0MNHD&amp;dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.hC7NGAniQ35rBiJQPav-RVHkT77Gsdc3rYTJlsBZYwY.8Tw5dtq5rogqEuNlA6ij7GzNQnozRi4i-QKDHAW73mA&amp;dib_tag=se&amp;keywords=the+wildest+race+ever&amp;qid=1721268109&amp;s=books&amp;sprefix=the+wildest+race+ev%2Cstripbooks%2C466&amp;sr=1-1" href="https://www.amazon.com/Wildest-Race-Ever-Olympic-Marathon/dp/1481406396/ref=sr_1_1?crid=11QJYS3A0MNHD&amp;dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.hC7NGAniQ35rBiJQPav-RVHkT77Gsdc3rYTJlsBZYwY.8Tw5dtq5rogqEuNlA6ij7GzNQnozRi4i-QKDHAW73mA&amp;dib_tag=se&amp;keywords=the+wildest+race+ever&amp;qid=1721268109&amp;s=books&amp;sprefix=the+wildest+race+ev%2Cstripbooks%2C466&amp;sr=1-1" target="_blank" rel="noopener">1. The Wildest Race Ever by Meghan McCarthy</a></h3>The 1904 Olympics, held in Saint Louis, Missouri looks nothing like an Olympics in 2024.First, it was combined with a World Fair. I’m not sure how chaotic that city was with two huge events happening in tandem. On the upside, people ate their first hotdog at the World’s Fair.But the marathon. What a mess. Heavy rain days before had washed out the route, so the new route was unexpectedly harder. And it was 90 degrees. And training was… less helpful than it is today.The Wildest Race Ever will blow your mind with some of the craziest stories about some of the athletes. One was chased off by a dog, another kept stopping to practice his English. Trainers refused their runner water, and one gave his runner a concoction with rat poison!Who won this wild, wild race? You’ll have to read about it to believe it.<h3><a data-mce-href="https://www.amazon.com/Thorpes-Bright-Path-Joseph-Bruchac/dp/1600603408/ref=sr_1_1?dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.pe4V08i1aVRyi5xrUwYjn-_kuDPSrrD8VPkFs-fnQF3l8RW0pV_m8u2FLvTzRsT8.iK7H3U3UrP864O43mNgfEQz66S6CC1QQc-T1KShD29o&amp;dib_tag=se&amp;hvadid=580635074601&amp;hvdev=c&amp;hvlocphy=9029714&amp;hvnetw=g&amp;hvqmt=e&amp;hvrand=11830499341138557827&amp;hvtargid=kwd-920457362&amp;hydadcr=22564_13493296&amp;keywords=jim+thorpe%27s+bright+path&amp;qid=1721267960&amp;s=books&amp;sr=1-1" href="https://www.amazon.com/Thorpes-Bright-Path-Joseph-Bruchac/dp/1600603408/ref=sr_1_1?dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.pe4V08i1aVRyi5xrUwYjn-_kuDPSrrD8VPkFs-fnQF3l8RW0pV_m8u2FLvTzRsT8.iK7H3U3UrP864O43mNgfEQz66S6CC1QQc-T1KShD29o&amp;dib_tag=se&amp;hvadid=580635074601&amp;hvdev=c&amp;hvlocphy=9029714&amp;hvnetw=g&amp;hvqmt=e&amp;hvrand=11830499341138557827&amp;hvtargid=kwd-920457362&amp;hydadcr=22564_13493296&amp;keywords=jim+thorpe%27s+bright+path&amp;qid=1721267960&amp;s=books&amp;sr=1-1" target="_blank" rel="noopener">2. Jim Thorpe’s Bright Path by Joseph Bruchac</a></h3>James and Charles Thorpe were born in 1887 on the Sac and Fox Indian Reservation--&nbsp; what would later become Oklahoma. These twins brought light to their father’s heart, so their mother gave James another name, “Wa-tho-huck”, or “Bright Path”.Unfortunately, James and Charles grew up during the time the American government forced Native Americans into boarding schools. There they were trained to “fit in” with white society, which meant they essentially needed to forget everything about what made them Indians. Jim lost too much while attending these boarding schools, but the one thing he gained was his exposure to football. On his way to a game, he broke a school high jump record in his overalls and boots. He casually walked away as the mockers withered silently inside. Talk about a mic drop.Jim Thorpe’s Bright Path showcases all that Jim Thorpe had to pass through before he became the 1912 Olympic Pentathlon and Decathlon winner. But as you’ll find out, even that wasn’t so simple. I’m telling you; you’ve got to read all about Jim Thorpe, the world’s most famous athlete and best known American Indian.<h3><a data-mce-href="https://www.amazon.com/Sporting-Chance-Guttmann-Created-Paralympic/dp/1328580792/ref=sr_1_1?crid=3BZ1ELC7ITZTV&amp;dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.yRy0taupT0k83HDL2Osbqq1k7RkZgNEpO4wGYl4l03lHB4SL-k2E2Fuw9vMrXtLgbo_QQAvMj9DhDLswklOsUYOriaS4RL_kbhZojFPSFd6bYGxdVulzqT86hs1PpB8i1U5kXjNgWv1flcHK7gpW-ibKrmeo-_kqP3cgthsA8YQeIsNGtMWLRkiyXZCMtczjDDPKToJNLSFj0J9YCrPmNrFrYOzgg4MMCS8gEBUOjbw.4zFy16pFc-IeOWbKbosstgH8YammkRoFz1Qwfx5eLU0&amp;dib_tag=se&amp;keywords=a+sporting+chance&amp;qid=1721268280&amp;s=books&amp;sprefix=a+sporting+chance%2Cstripbooks%2C569&amp;sr=1-1" href="https://www.amazon.com/Sporting-Chance-Guttmann-Created-Paralympic/dp/1328580792/ref=sr_1_1?crid=3BZ1ELC7ITZTV&amp;dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.yRy0taupT0k83HDL2Osbqq1k7RkZgNEpO4wGYl4l03lHB4SL-k2E2Fuw9vMrXtLgbo_QQAvMj9DhDLswklOsUYOriaS4RL_kbhZojFPSFd6bYGxdVulzqT86hs1PpB8i1U5kXjNgWv1flcHK7gpW-ibKrmeo-_kqP3cgthsA8YQeIsNGtMWLRkiyXZCMtczjDDPKToJNLSFj0J9YCrPmNrFrYOzgg4MMCS8gEBUOjbw.4zFy16pFc-IeOWbKbosstgH8YammkRoFz1Qwfx5eLU0&amp;dib_tag=se&amp;keywords=a+sporting+chance&amp;qid=1721268280&amp;s=books&amp;sprefix=a+sporting+chance%2Cstripbooks%2C569&amp;sr=1-1" target="_blank" rel="noopener">3. A Sporting Chance by Lori Alexander&nbsp;</a></h3>I've never watched the second part of the Olympics before, but I will this year.The Paralympics, which usually starts a week or two after the first games, officially debuted in 1960 in Rome. However, it began decades before that, in a hospital of all places!Ludwig Guttmann, a Jewish doctor from Germany, had planned on being a pediatrician; WWI changed that plan years before he'd passed his medical exams. One day on his rounds, Ludwig met a teenager around his age being prepped for a full-body cast. This boy had broken his back in the mines and lost all feeling in his legs. When Ludwig inquired what was next for the boy, he was astounded to learn that it was nothing. "Dead in six weeks at the latest." No one knew how to handle paralysis, so they were wheeled to the "incurable" wing of the hospital and left to die.By the time Ludwig was a doctor, there were too many pediatricians in his area, so he took a position in the neurology department-- brains, nerves, and spines to be specific. Ludwig took the chance and soon he started experimenting together with his patients. Years later, now in London, Ludwig saw a few of his paralyzed patients attempting to play polo in their bulky wheelchairs. And just like that, the Stoke Mandeville Games began.A Sporting Chance showcases an inspired man who changed the world. And July is Disabilty Pride month, so this book is a great way to commemmorate the Americans with Disabilites Act (ADA). For Ludwig, the Paralympics was more than just a competition-- it was a way to live.<h3><a data-mce-href="https://www.amazon.com/Tenacious-Adventures-Alongside-Disabled-Athletes/dp/1643790986/ref=sr_1_1?crid=J4X0QXJSNUNQ&amp;dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9._rxTutVCR3QlEzwZHyHv1B64ASYP2-DrxUF4BL0loYrkzAqHKfsCC8-vNaDOV432H1AtpzZHHMVMLaw-Eb0ZCG-9qzgGEHSH5RqOwNMMSpWuGHwtZul9DJB1oMfDpsKWwXSLUP-FwBu0_ql7_RJUYITU2bK2OhgXsu2C_8lJywXXmDVGhhnF7HxfrysSpaiQmGTSn9BJT4_lKQEPDSYC_5w57XkiTpVXePn9mEQzw4c.8ytDkBMNeuFaEC_wNpgTBBhCR2O0jKLRvgQA34J38c8&amp;dib_tag=se&amp;keywords=tenacious&amp;qid=1721268523&amp;s=books&amp;sprefix=tenac%2Cstripbooks%2C388&amp;sr=1-1" href="https://www.amazon.com/Tenacious-Adventures-Alongside-Disabled-Athletes/dp/1643790986/ref=sr_1_1?crid=J4X0QXJSNUNQ&amp;dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9._rxTutVCR3QlEzwZHyHv1B64ASYP2-DrxUF4BL0loYrkzAqHKfsCC8-vNaDOV432H1AtpzZHHMVMLaw-Eb0ZCG-9qzgGEHSH5RqOwNMMSpWuGHwtZul9DJB1oMfDpsKWwXSLUP-FwBu0_ql7_RJUYITU2bK2OhgXsu2C_8lJywXXmDVGhhnF7HxfrysSpaiQmGTSn9BJT4_lKQEPDSYC_5w57XkiTpVXePn9mEQzw4c.8ytDkBMNeuFaEC_wNpgTBBhCR2O0jKLRvgQA34J38c8&amp;dib_tag=se&amp;keywords=tenacious&amp;qid=1721268523&amp;s=books&amp;sprefix=tenac%2Cstripbooks%2C388&amp;sr=1-1" target="_blank" rel="noopener">4. Tenacious by Patty Cisneros Prevo</a></h3>After you've read about how the Paralympics started-- and to continue celebrating Disability Pride month!--&nbsp; you'll want to read Tenacious, a book all about 15 athletes with disabilities. Blind skiers and seated surfers are just the beginning of a world that will blow your mind.&nbsp;One of my favorite parts of this book is that after the athlete's story the author also included the responses to two questions. Hearing each athlete's "daily challenge" and "daily joy" endears you to them, but it also helps you practice a little bit of empathy; how do people with disabilities do the activities I hardly give a thought to? What things am I taking for granted?Many of these athletes participated in the Paralympics, but a few participate in sports that haven't qualified as an official Olympic sport. But who knows? New categories get added all the time. Gain a little grit as you read about these tenacious athletes!<h3>5. The Olympics from Athens to Athens by LIFE</h3>If any of you were disappointed that this wasn't another picture book recommendation list, I've got good news-- LIFE made an adult version!Now, it may be 20 years old, but don't let that stop you. Knowing past Olympians makes the current ones that much cooler. For example, current generations know all about the swimming records Michael Phelps broke, but they've probably never heard about the man who set them. (It's Mark Spitz, just in case you forgot.)From Athens to Athens has incredible pictures from the first Olympics in 1896 Athens and historic photos from all around the world. It's a great way to get a crash course on all things Olympics, and it might just send you down your most interesting rabbit hole yet.<h3><a data-mce-href="https://www.amazon.com/Women-Sports-Fearless-Athletes-Science/dp/1607749785/ref=sr_1_1?crid=1LYSG80ZJHE15&amp;dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.ChPW5ru34OZD7sl5cgZdYRB_1J3avZVA7oQHgo60YCnmBF7i3RWXRh3LYMMVcdFsQbnLCt5QqkeYIMNUmiR38pk-bbtgsfRQ0XQiPngbB6h5EEUyVTVZWamfCAOU-GxlnnUdNs3MryrwI2ZEWElsxwx94tAnpngj0XIsQGaqzxqVV3OMrclhB89W1gIMzjJhParoSrA3Z2iNmGFnCyFLwNOO_wW8Hzyd5wSOuNgjg6Y.aPUEm7r4fNR6HG1OqD-bfOH4nHetphIE8dOvDnX8vsg&amp;dib_tag=se&amp;keywords=woman+in+sports&amp;qid=1721268862&amp;s=books&amp;sprefix=woman+in+spor%2Cstripbooks%2C222&amp;sr=1-1" href="https://www.amazon.com/Women-Sports-Fearless-Athletes-Science/dp/1607749785/ref=sr_1_1?crid=1LYSG80ZJHE15&amp;dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.ChPW5ru34OZD7sl5cgZdYRB_1J3avZVA7oQHgo60YCnmBF7i3RWXRh3LYMMVcdFsQbnLCt5QqkeYIMNUmiR38pk-bbtgsfRQ0XQiPngbB6h5EEUyVTVZWamfCAOU-GxlnnUdNs3MryrwI2ZEWElsxwx94tAnpngj0XIsQGaqzxqVV3OMrclhB89W1gIMzjJhParoSrA3Z2iNmGFnCyFLwNOO_wW8Hzyd5wSOuNgjg6Y.aPUEm7r4fNR6HG1OqD-bfOH4nHetphIE8dOvDnX8vsg&amp;dib_tag=se&amp;keywords=woman+in+sports&amp;qid=1721268862&amp;s=books&amp;sprefix=woman+in+spor%2Cstripbooks%2C222&amp;sr=1-1" target="_blank" rel="noopener">6. Women in Sports by Rachel Ignotofsky</a></h3>If you liked my previous post, <a href="https://madeitbymaren.com/blog/6-picture-books-about-practically-perfect-women" target="_blank" rel="noopener" data-mce-href="https://madeitbymaren.com/blog/6-picture-books-about-practically-perfect-women">6 Picture Books About Practically Perfect Women</a>, you will love this book.Women in Sports gives you a snapshot of 50 of the most incredible women and their athletic careers. Starting in 1881, this book not only showcases individuals but also educates on the disparities that exist between men and women in sports, like pay gaps and media coverage.&nbsp;Most of these women competed in the Olympics, but there were a few who dominated their sport in a different ring. And you'll see some familiar names, but there will be more information than a picture book can contain. Rachel Ignotofsky also did her own illustrations. I think you'll enjoy them just as much as the dialogue.&nbsp; Happy Reading!*All links are simply links, I don't get any money if you click them. I just want to make finding great stories as easy as possible for you!* Similar Reads:<a data-mce-href="https://madeitbymaren.com/blog/6-picture-books-about-practically-perfect-women" href="https://madeitbymaren.com/blog/6-picture-books-about-practically-perfect-women">6 Picture Books About Practically Perfect Women</a><a data-mce-href="https://madeitbymaren.com/blog/5-picture-books-on-the-best-female-olympians" href="https://madeitbymaren.com/blog/5-picture-books-on-the-best-female-olympians">5 Picture Books on the Best Female Olympians</a><a data-mce-href="https://madeitbymaren.com/blog/picture-perfect---5-picture-books-that-capture-history" href="https://madeitbymaren.com/blog/picture-perfect---5-picture-books-that-capture-history">Picture Perfect: 5 Picture Books that Capture History</a> Want to work with me? Schedule a <a data-mce-href="https://madeitbymaren.com/book-editing-and-proofreading-services" href="https://madeitbymaren.com/book-editing-and-proofreading-services">free editing consultation</a> with Maren! You're bound to leave with a novel idea...Like what I'm reading? Follow me on <a data-mce-href="http://www.goodreads.com/marensommer" href="http://www.goodreads.com/marensommer" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Goodreads</a>!

6 Middle-Grade Books About The Olympics

If you've read my bio, you may already know the story.But I'm gonna retell it anyway.When I went to college, I was 100% certain I was going to be an elementary school teacher. I'd taken CE classes in high school, I'd interned in three different grades, I LOVED those kids, and it was the only thing I was good at.(Famous last words. Do not repeat my mistakes.)I was 90% complete with my teaching degree when I started crying after my ESL class. I couldn't stop. My mom walked in on me and was crazy confused that I couldn't figure out what was going on.Twelve hours of talk therapy later, I realized I liked the kids. Not teaching.Well, crap.Fast forward, my communications/English degree professors kept commenting on how fun I was as a writer. But if I didn't want to do that exclusively, why not also be an editor?I fell in love.It's been a few years now. I've edited many different books and series, but I still get giddy when one of my authors sends me a picture of their freshly-published book. I usually edit fantasy or contemporary fiction, but this book was my first time editing a self-help journal.I am thrilled to announce that Sadie Sanchez, founder of the non-profit Perspectus, has recently published her first book <a data-mce-href="https://sadietsanchez.com/products/dimensions-100-days-of-questions-to-help-you-understand-your-perspective" href="https://sadietsanchez.com/products/dimensions-100-days-of-questions-to-help-you-understand-your-perspective" target="_blank" rel="noopener">DIMENSIONS: 100 Questions to Understand Your Perspective</a>.RELEASE THE CONFETTI!!!I first learned about Sadie through her TEDxSUU talk, <a data-mce-href="youtube.com/watch?v=Ysh32IbnI04" href="youtube.com/watch?v=Ysh32IbnI04" target="_blank" rel="noopener">The Measurement of Perspective,</a> and only squealed a tiny bit when she reached out to me about editing her book. The book started as a 100-day challenge on Instagram. Each day Sadie talked about one aspect of "perspective"-- how and why we see things a certain way-- and issued a little challenge to help viewers understand the origins of their perspectives better. She told me she was inspired by the 150 people she interviewed after the events of 2020 when so many people were divided and she was struggling to understand why.&nbsp;DIMENSIONS has the original 100 questions that explore what factors make up our perspectives. There is also an optional journal you can buy to record any insights or questions that arise as you ponder. I often got lost in my thoughts as I was editing each question; they're so sneakily simple that it can't be helped. And that's amazing!Buy your copy of <a data-mce-href="https://sadietsanchez.com/products/dimensions-100-days-of-questions-to-help-you-understand-your-perspective" href="https://sadietsanchez.com/products/dimensions-100-days-of-questions-to-help-you-understand-your-perspective" target="_blank" rel="noopener">DIMENSIONS</a> today, and if you enjoyed it, reach out to Sadie and let her know! And look for her next book, we've already been discussing a few ideas... *All links are simply links, I don't get any money if you click them. I just want to make finding great stories as easy as possible for you!*Need more book recommendations? Check out <a data-mce-href="https://1drv.ms/x/c/1c8acfddae60bd89/EYm9YK7dz4oggBxwAAAAAAABcTN6e8V9kFbmvI7Fk6zbpw?e=YezjcR" href="https://1drv.ms/x/c/1c8acfddae60bd89/EYm9YK7dz4oggBxwAAAAAAABcTN6e8V9kFbmvI7Fk6zbpw?e=YezjcR" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Maren's List</a>!Want to work with me? Schedule a <a data-mce-href="https://madeitbymaren.com/book-editing-and-proofreading-services" href="https://madeitbymaren.com/book-editing-and-proofreading-services">free editing consultation </a>with Maren! You're bound to leave with a novel idea...

Just Edited: DIMENSIONS by Sadie Sanchez

man and woman smiling while laying on lawn field

When is National Women's Month?Who cares. I declare today is National Women's Month because women are fabulous! They dream big, they live large, and when they forget about the opinions of others... girl, watch out, the future is about to change!So, in honor of women everywhere, here are 6 of my favorite women in beautiful picture books.<h3>1. <a data-mce-href="https://www.amazon.com/Only-Best-Exceptional-Life-Fashion-ebook/dp/B0B1QXQPSC/ref=sr_1_1?crid=2GFMY5VTLCZJX&amp;dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.xjpLXcwKfkc_HZSqCvlqEvvBFOqbEMJ7220H3LDRYphSyFL7JgLFUeWzwa__Z1ZyVRCFplSjM5ZFWBJkKoM3TaNyqErSUmypDheLR55sMz1cB3hDr76KoS-wCWwHR28FPxnmHZoMAPsAY1NPyf-jXQOQLwjkphwHe-CGFPcJre7KndjDv38E5Tukx9Gu39dKshYFea5kNiD5XH4S8r1TRiTJ7CyoYStVoNhvOCAR1U4.eEZUDoPOwjPRKfkl46nlPG7N7h0WfYkAscJHC4Wu1HE&amp;dib_tag=se&amp;keywords=only+the+best+book&amp;qid=1719613017&amp;sprefix=only+the+best+bo%2Caps%2C195&amp;sr=8-1" href="https://www.amazon.com/Only-Best-Exceptional-Life-Fashion-ebook/dp/B0B1QXQPSC/ref=sr_1_1?crid=2GFMY5VTLCZJX&amp;dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.xjpLXcwKfkc_HZSqCvlqEvvBFOqbEMJ7220H3LDRYphSyFL7JgLFUeWzwa__Z1ZyVRCFplSjM5ZFWBJkKoM3TaNyqErSUmypDheLR55sMz1cB3hDr76KoS-wCWwHR28FPxnmHZoMAPsAY1NPyf-jXQOQLwjkphwHe-CGFPcJre7KndjDv38E5Tukx9Gu39dKshYFea5kNiD5XH4S8r1TRiTJ7CyoYStVoNhvOCAR1U4.eEZUDoPOwjPRKfkl46nlPG7N7h0WfYkAscJHC4Wu1HE&amp;dib_tag=se&amp;keywords=only+the+best+book&amp;qid=1719613017&amp;sprefix=only+the+best+bo%2Caps%2C195&amp;sr=8-1" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Only the Best by Kate Messner and Margaret E. Powell</a> </h3>I'd never heard of Ann Lowe before this picture book, but once I read it, I realized I'd been a fan of her work for years. She was the designer for all of Jackie O's wedding dresses! When she was a little girl, Ann would take the scrap fabric from her grandmother’s dress shop and turn it into flowers. Soon she was learning how to make dresses, and one day she had the opportunity to move to Florida and design dresses exclusively for a family. Ann's story sounds a lot like Tiana's mother in Disney's The Princess and the Frog, so now I'm curious if the writers were inspired by the best dress designer in America. Despite all the racial segregation in her life, Ann lived her life like she sewed-- Only the Best for her clients and herself. Who couldn't love a woman like that?<h3><a data-mce-href="https://www.amazon.com/Just-Being-Audrey-Margaret-Cardillo/dp/006185283X/ref=sr_1_1?crid=23OQCD81PFSM3&amp;dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.0l7AbChXXCytRbbLhWUEwaW-_nK-xytIOJa-aUKcIaMOy9AhbRD1o0rmRcUW4fEWAHyfdNK7bwbyOUMMv_N_QSE78ZyYUGJPWLs_mcTOCFy2xRrYSC2PKoUtJljJYH1tvWYoUlaz32n6sRVIYuvQExLAqk22pUapqqzL9NHG3DT8DaQZayvmtD7GTucyGT071o8Pa6oa3_78FTXUM10VKpiRZXAZ5c_8GQOhB7gU3oU.VekO7NXQZV_t-nfmNx4zJ1NRbr0vir-PKIcV_MaEkDw&amp;dib_tag=se&amp;keywords=just+being+audrey&amp;qid=1719613086&amp;sprefix=just+being+audrey%2Caps%2C826&amp;sr=8-1" href="https://www.amazon.com/Just-Being-Audrey-Margaret-Cardillo/dp/006185283X/ref=sr_1_1?crid=23OQCD81PFSM3&amp;dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.0l7AbChXXCytRbbLhWUEwaW-_nK-xytIOJa-aUKcIaMOy9AhbRD1o0rmRcUW4fEWAHyfdNK7bwbyOUMMv_N_QSE78ZyYUGJPWLs_mcTOCFy2xRrYSC2PKoUtJljJYH1tvWYoUlaz32n6sRVIYuvQExLAqk22pUapqqzL9NHG3DT8DaQZayvmtD7GTucyGT071o8Pa6oa3_78FTXUM10VKpiRZXAZ5c_8GQOhB7gU3oU.VekO7NXQZV_t-nfmNx4zJ1NRbr0vir-PKIcV_MaEkDw&amp;dib_tag=se&amp;keywords=just+being+audrey&amp;qid=1719613086&amp;sprefix=just+being+audrey%2Caps%2C826&amp;sr=8-1" target="_blank" rel="noopener">2. Just Being Audrey by Margaret Cardillo</a></h3> Audrey Hepburn is probably the classiest woman to ever live, at least in my opinion. Of all her films, my favorite is How to Steal a Million, hands down. Funny and witty, with just a touch of suspense and a handsome co-star, Peter O’Toole. Ah, Audrey, they don’t make them like you anymore. Audrey was considered ugly growing up. But her mother always reminded her that the most beautiful people in the world are kind. And according to the film and stage crews she worked with, Audrey was drenched in beauty. Sometimes she made them spaghetti after filming! Just Being Audrey shows you how Audrey made her trial-filled life a beautiful life and reminds us all how to “just be me”.<h3>3. <a data-mce-href="https://www.amazon.com/Girl-Who-Thought-Pictures-Scientists/dp/1943147612/ref=sr_1_1?crid=PWE5ITTZ321C&amp;dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.W0wyAX61YQUqsDudrU4p_Ltmn2x7R2I28khWxYyJICiNqUXDeKKq_zqvE0G2uDrByMSTVxvv2MD_WjMGVHY6JmbUs3WDNfMKpClgmLztDS_jfDhcpoDkuZDdNQkoziQMXq3vzJgwRxkqyjujtHmw3JeCz4rPIwJ1crqAbWUtgrW1Z3vrUf-joDLQqEXkNbg__7aAcgy6IeckdyJM075fe3hR6bT-3mw0-PvyC3JM7fY.gh4ToskXp_WomOVUMf4MVXUOfLwfGppwxo_FBRcR-LY&amp;dib_tag=se&amp;keywords=the+girl+who+thought+in+pictures&amp;qid=1719613147&amp;sprefix=the+girl+who+thought%2Caps%2C817&amp;sr=8-1" href="https://www.amazon.com/Girl-Who-Thought-Pictures-Scientists/dp/1943147612/ref=sr_1_1?crid=PWE5ITTZ321C&amp;dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.W0wyAX61YQUqsDudrU4p_Ltmn2x7R2I28khWxYyJICiNqUXDeKKq_zqvE0G2uDrByMSTVxvv2MD_WjMGVHY6JmbUs3WDNfMKpClgmLztDS_jfDhcpoDkuZDdNQkoziQMXq3vzJgwRxkqyjujtHmw3JeCz4rPIwJ1crqAbWUtgrW1Z3vrUf-joDLQqEXkNbg__7aAcgy6IeckdyJM075fe3hR6bT-3mw0-PvyC3JM7fY.gh4ToskXp_WomOVUMf4MVXUOfLwfGppwxo_FBRcR-LY&amp;dib_tag=se&amp;keywords=the+girl+who+thought+in+pictures&amp;qid=1719613147&amp;sprefix=the+girl+who+thought%2Caps%2C817&amp;sr=8-1" target="_blank" rel="noopener">The Girl Who Thought in Pictures</a></h3> She didn’t speak till she was four. She got kicked out of school. She hated hugs. And she was tutored by a former NASA scientist.&nbsp; And she thinks cows are the coolest. Temple Grandin is “different, not less”. She’s got autism, and you’ll have a hard time reading about anyone cooler. Born in 1947, Temple’s world didn’t understand autism very well, but animals didn’t care. After she spent some time on her aunt’s farm in Arizona, Temple started to create amazing things. One was her hug machine, modeled after the machines that kept cows calm during vaccinations.&nbsp; Temple’s story can be found in a movie, the Time magazine, and when she speaks extensively around the world about animals and autism.<h3>4. <a data-mce-href="https://www.amazon.com/dp/1492642045?k=shark%20lady%20book&amp;ref_=nb_sb_ss_w_scx-ent-pd-bk-d_l_k0_1_14&amp;crid=26I904A6NVSL6&amp;sprefix=shark%20lady%20boo" href="https://www.amazon.com/dp/1492642045?k=shark%20lady%20book&amp;ref_=nb_sb_ss_w_scx-ent-pd-bk-d_l_k0_1_14&amp;crid=26I904A6NVSL6&amp;sprefix=shark%20lady%20boo" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Shark Lady by Jess Keating</a></h3> Just about 10 years ago, the Shark Lady passed away at age 92. I’d never even heard of her until this picture book, but she was a fearless woman. Born in 1922, Eugenie Clark went against convention, both as an educated woman (she earned her Doctorate in 1950) and as a shark advocate. People believed sharks were evil and actively hunted them, but Eugenie found them beautiful. She even grabbed onto one while diving and hitched a ride away from her boat! You’ll learn all about sharks in this book and about the adventures Eugenie Clark took through her career. One of my favorite stories? She was only bitten by a shark once—at a stoplight. Yeah. You gotta read about that one.<h3>5. <a data-mce-href="https://www.amazon.com/Counting-Katherine-Johnson-Saved-Apollo/dp/1250137527/ref=sr_1_1?crid=36NPZLO0LY9BN&amp;dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.Fw-YzcBC7V98QcyKdIIkn2unzSs8_H7fMn9NBdped0e83P-UX9flSTnFTLDs0RNPQdEBMpvCuDLb_1ezZdzAmTRWYiDIrrbKXcvn0GG5EFLspsN9CrMVhbO8cZBsAXRJyRWfYZR5YAy4akWQsjLg_hEugUFrnKL4rdzY3ZG4jRuRPDJ4pzcoCuWxDOHZs_tfXKsnH1GPd6Bhx37ufY4IG7QK6nVPTeEtebuN4N6QDYQ.3CHtw21IvzpSw0Ynauf4SD6WJRoQ08QwT8kpMbEiuZ0&amp;dib_tag=se&amp;keywords=counting+on+katherine&amp;qid=1719613235&amp;s=books&amp;sprefix=counting+on+%2Cstripbooks%2C1162&amp;sr=1-1" href="https://www.amazon.com/Counting-Katherine-Johnson-Saved-Apollo/dp/1250137527/ref=sr_1_1?crid=36NPZLO0LY9BN&amp;dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.Fw-YzcBC7V98QcyKdIIkn2unzSs8_H7fMn9NBdped0e83P-UX9flSTnFTLDs0RNPQdEBMpvCuDLb_1ezZdzAmTRWYiDIrrbKXcvn0GG5EFLspsN9CrMVhbO8cZBsAXRJyRWfYZR5YAy4akWQsjLg_hEugUFrnKL4rdzY3ZG4jRuRPDJ4pzcoCuWxDOHZs_tfXKsnH1GPd6Bhx37ufY4IG7QK6nVPTeEtebuN4N6QDYQ.3CHtw21IvzpSw0Ynauf4SD6WJRoQ08QwT8kpMbEiuZ0&amp;dib_tag=se&amp;keywords=counting+on+katherine&amp;qid=1719613235&amp;s=books&amp;sprefix=counting+on+%2Cstripbooks%2C1162&amp;sr=1-1" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Counting on Katherine by Helaine Becker</a></h3>When Hidden Figures came out, it quickly became my favorite movie. I want to be just like those women, assertive in the right things and aggressive against the wrong things. The movie centered around Friendship 7’s launch; you remember the scene where astronaut John Glenn refused to believe the men’s calculations until Katherine Johnson did the math (far more precisely than the men!) But Katherine kept going. The movie had a 10-second blurb before the credits about each of the women’s future accomplishments, but it never mentioned Katherine’s role in the Apollo 13 mission. And, might I add, the Apollo 13 movie didn’t either, which I am more than a little bitter about. Katherine was the one who calculated the flight path home for the three terrified astronauts. In any case, as the book says, “She was no longer the kid who dreamed of what lay beyond the stars. She was now a star herself.”&nbsp;<h3>6. <a data-mce-href="https://www.amazon.com/dp/0374313903?k=dear%20librarian%20book&amp;ref_=nb_sb_ss_w_scx-ent-pd-bk-d_l_k0_1_14&amp;crid=2GSIDDHIU9SJ0&amp;sprefix=dear%20librarian" href="https://www.amazon.com/dp/0374313903?k=dear%20librarian%20book&amp;ref_=nb_sb_ss_w_scx-ent-pd-bk-d_l_k0_1_14&amp;crid=2GSIDDHIU9SJ0&amp;sprefix=dear%20librarian" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Dear Librarian by Lydia M. Sigwarth</a></h3> When I tell people I work in a library, the question that follows is, “Libraries still exist? What’s the use?” People have no idea how important libraries are, but all the reasons are too long for this post. But one of the greatest resources libraries offer is a place for the homeless to go during the day. Dear Librarian is about the author’s time when her family was homeless. While extended family was generous and let them stay in their homes, Lydia often felt she wasn’t allowed to touch or be in the houses. And with six siblings and two parents, it was hard to find space! But one day her mother took her to the library, and she met her new best friend. Prepare to shed a tear or two. And if you want to make your favorite librarian feel special, gift them this book. <figure id="figure-1nsovd6r4lxz9mek6"><figcaption class="body-normal text-gray-500 mt-2"> </figcaption></figure>*All links are simply links, I don't get any money if you click them. I just want to make finding great stories as easy as possible for you!*Related Posts<a data-mce-href="https://madeitbymaren.com/blog/picture-perfect---5-picture-books-that-capture-history" href="https://madeitbymaren.com/blog/picture-perfect---5-picture-books-that-capture-history">Picture Perfect: 5 Picture Books that Capture History</a><a data-mce-href="https://madeitbymaren.com/blog/picture-perfect--5-more-picture-books-that-capture-history" href="https://madeitbymaren.com/blog/picture-perfect--5-more-picture-books-that-capture-history">Picture Perfect: 5 More Picture Books that Capture History</a><a data-mce-href="https://madeitbymaren.com/blog/maren-s-favorite-biographies--1" href="https://madeitbymaren.com/blog/maren-s-favorite-biographies--1">Maren's Favorite Biographies #1</a> Want to work with me? Schedule a <a data-mce-href="https://madeitbymaren.com/book-editing-and-proofreading-services" href="https://madeitbymaren.com/book-editing-and-proofreading-services">free editing consultation</a> with Maren! You're bound to leave with a novel idea...Like what you're reading? Follow me on <a data-mce-href="http://www.goodreads.com/marensommer" href="http://www.goodreads.com/marensommer" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Goodreads</a>!

6 Picture Books About Practically Perfect Women

Eiffel Tower after a rainy day in the romantic city of Paris

How much do I love the Olympics? Let me count the reasons...Well, at least five of them, in the form of picture books. I've tried to explain my love for the Olympics before, but usually, it just comes out in a jumble of sounds, a few tears, and me dissolving into a puddle of mushy muscles and happy sighs.The Olympics is a spiritual experience for me, and I have not one athletic bone in my body.Nevertheless, in honor of the Paris 2024 Olympics that start in 24 days (squeal!) here are five picture books on some of the most amazing female Olympians in history. <h3>1. <a data-mce-href="https://www.amazon.com/Mermaid-No-Tail-Jessica-Long/dp/164963093X/ref=sr_1_1?crid=31I7L95DLGA4Q&amp;dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.KaoZ6Q0uZaMA-U16pRB1I78qTbaotCz9iR08yXtW5tBOTJIcJ-P3uicGFOVnIPeZIG3m5ddVGcRoZcIq4rDXImFm-r_8SSEWzFNO7jPm2pbDpIHob6i3JDuUeZt_8b0rbyHdym8avWFQ5PV-6kfdpQ5A-y2OuI1ZhREJlMmsmr_ZGUFXY99vKlI_zf-BAJy9v-HW9mACwBq7z6WCnAQ3o6mGhuWytLC5FS4H3LzpD74.fr0WSBk0Ygv9eGMPDyel498tVrBnVnTitXhzmjhlBu0&amp;dib_tag=se&amp;keywords=the+mermaid+with+no+tail&amp;qid=1719961605&amp;sprefix=the+mermaid+with+no+tai%2Caps%2C225&amp;sr=8-1" href="https://www.amazon.com/Mermaid-No-Tail-Jessica-Long/dp/164963093X/ref=sr_1_1?crid=31I7L95DLGA4Q&amp;dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.KaoZ6Q0uZaMA-U16pRB1I78qTbaotCz9iR08yXtW5tBOTJIcJ-P3uicGFOVnIPeZIG3m5ddVGcRoZcIq4rDXImFm-r_8SSEWzFNO7jPm2pbDpIHob6i3JDuUeZt_8b0rbyHdym8avWFQ5PV-6kfdpQ5A-y2OuI1ZhREJlMmsmr_ZGUFXY99vKlI_zf-BAJy9v-HW9mACwBq7z6WCnAQ3o6mGhuWytLC5FS4H3LzpD74.fr0WSBk0Ygv9eGMPDyel498tVrBnVnTitXhzmjhlBu0&amp;dib_tag=se&amp;keywords=the+mermaid+with+no+tail&amp;qid=1719961605&amp;sprefix=the+mermaid+with+no+tai%2Caps%2C225&amp;sr=8-1" target="_blank" rel="noopener">The Mermaid with No Tail</a> by Jessica Long </h3>What could be better than a mermaid? An OLYMPIC mermaid?! Oh my gosh, deep breaths Maren, deep breaths!This isn’t a biographical picture book like the others. I mean, Jessica Long is a human from Siberia, not a mermaid from the ocean. But Jessica did base The Mermaid with No Tail on her adoption and Olympic training experience. Tatiana is a mermaid with no tail fins, adopted by Mom and Dad sea turtles who tell her it’s her differences that are her greatest gifts. Tatiana loves watching the Mermaid Games, and with the help of her shark coach Phelpsy, she knows she’ll compete in them one day too.Jessica was born without most of the bones in her legs and feet, so they were amputated below the knee so she could be fitted for prosthetic legs. She was adopted by her parents from a Russian orphanage and learned to swim in her grandpa’s swimming pool where, of course, she pretended to be a mermaid. Jessica trained with Michael Phelps in Baltimore and has won 29 medals at the Paralympic Games.If you love mermaids, you’ll love Jessica Long!<h3>2. <a data-mce-href="https://www.amazon.com/dp/1623541689?k=long%20armed%20ludy&amp;ref_=nb_sb_ss_w_scx-ent-pd-bk-d_l_k0_1_12&amp;crid=PVU1P1SN1BP4&amp;sprefix=long%20armed%20l" href="https://www.amazon.com/dp/1623541689?k=long%20armed%20ludy&amp;ref_=nb_sb_ss_w_scx-ent-pd-bk-d_l_k0_1_12&amp;crid=PVU1P1SN1BP4&amp;sprefix=long%20armed%20l" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Long-Armed Ludy by Jean L. S. Patrick</a></h3> The 1900 Paris Olympics was the first to allow women to compete, but they were extremely limited in which events they could participate in. Unless you were a sailor, a golfer, a tennis player, or a croquet player, you were out of luck.It’s like the men didn’t have eyes. Women participated in all the other sports, they just had to do it their own way.Paris. She just keeps poppin’ up in my picture book research.Alice Milliat of France finally got fed up with the discrimination and started her own international track meet. And that’s where Lucile “Ludy” Godbold became the first champion of the Women’s Olympics in Paris, France.Ludy was gangly. Six feet tall and strong arms that hung close to the ground, a college coach encouraged her to take the shot pot “for a ride”.And what a ride Ludy took.<h3>3. <a data-mce-href="https://www.amazon.com/Story-Simone-Biles-Biography-Readers/dp/1647397758/ref=sr_1_1?crid=34V8RIZIDFS36&amp;dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.5DnXGkbTAKDcIeBLJd2Rtpp60lKc4d0W9E_HUwWmLMhOYsPYAuPCrAwXcSX-jpJBbFbeIT2k45jLgWVua3_VrzU_ISm3-1D1sxk740HCocZrGYr-syEBVOHHgL02J2eQcBG2LOTpdVpj3eLWL5CEu2-1qlulYIGjJ-Gh7s8i34R0g0C9Ce6FgkkGs9Kh2GPclpDtMdW7BqOOmHYUxCsoSEqghW9f2SCs_fXV-5uDKwU.1hdQNsTYuHlmgWAs1EZ362wMWr_MPR5DH7F1Y3L7_x8&amp;dib_tag=se&amp;keywords=the+story+of+simone+biles&amp;qid=1719961872&amp;s=books&amp;sprefix=the+story+of+simone+bi%2Cstripbooks%2C584&amp;sr=1-1" href="https://www.amazon.com/Story-Simone-Biles-Biography-Readers/dp/1647397758/ref=sr_1_1?crid=34V8RIZIDFS36&amp;dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.5DnXGkbTAKDcIeBLJd2Rtpp60lKc4d0W9E_HUwWmLMhOYsPYAuPCrAwXcSX-jpJBbFbeIT2k45jLgWVua3_VrzU_ISm3-1D1sxk740HCocZrGYr-syEBVOHHgL02J2eQcBG2LOTpdVpj3eLWL5CEu2-1qlulYIGjJ-Gh7s8i34R0g0C9Ce6FgkkGs9Kh2GPclpDtMdW7BqOOmHYUxCsoSEqghW9f2SCs_fXV-5uDKwU.1hdQNsTYuHlmgWAs1EZ362wMWr_MPR5DH7F1Y3L7_x8&amp;dib_tag=se&amp;keywords=the+story+of+simone+biles&amp;qid=1719961872&amp;s=books&amp;sprefix=the+story+of+simone+bi%2Cstripbooks%2C584&amp;sr=1-1" target="_blank" rel="noopener">The Story of Simone Biles by Rachelle Burk</a></h3> My first daughter shall be named Simone. Or maybe that would reveal just how obsessed I am with Simone Biles? Ever since 2016, I haven’t been able to get enough of her. I mean, did you see her floor routine? I haven’t seen joy like that since Gene Kelly danced.&nbsp;The Story of Simone Biles is like a junior version of her biography. A lot of the same stories and facts are in the adult version, so it’s a great place to start if you only have a few minutes. This is also just a little more advanced than a picture book. But when an athlete is jumping 12 ft in her floor programs, there is just no way to condense her awesomeness into 12 pages.The best part about Simone’s story is that it’s really just life. So lifey. What paths should she choose? What things will she have to give up? How do you get along with family members?&nbsp;I can’t wait for an updated biography after the 2024 Olympics!!!<h3>4. <a data-mce-href="https://www.amazon.com/Unbeatable-Betty-Robinson-Olympic-Medalist/dp/0062896075/ref=sr_1_1?crid=30MUJSH3J5XWB&amp;dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.Ns5F0KgKN5-GT-N7nm4waU1ZqVFCQQcPC7PIMwomOhKqPx_jGWZgADexk78yVl4R.-rIOFz16eAH5QJmjgUttx932ptLQCWRR_FMID9ZM1bE&amp;dib_tag=se&amp;keywords=unbeatable+betty&amp;qid=1719961993&amp;s=books&amp;sprefix=unbeatable+betty%2Cstripbooks%2C611&amp;sr=1-1" href="https://www.amazon.com/Unbeatable-Betty-Robinson-Olympic-Medalist/dp/0062896075/ref=sr_1_1?crid=30MUJSH3J5XWB&amp;dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.Ns5F0KgKN5-GT-N7nm4waU1ZqVFCQQcPC7PIMwomOhKqPx_jGWZgADexk78yVl4R.-rIOFz16eAH5QJmjgUttx932ptLQCWRR_FMID9ZM1bE&amp;dib_tag=se&amp;keywords=unbeatable+betty&amp;qid=1719961993&amp;s=books&amp;sprefix=unbeatable+betty%2Cstripbooks%2C611&amp;sr=1-1" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Unbeatable Betty by Allison Crotzer Kimmel</a> </h3>The 1936 Olympics was explosive, and not because it was the last one before WWII. The 1936 Olympics has been on everyone’s minds lately with the release of The Boys in the Boat. And before that it was known for the gold medal won by Jesse Owens, effectively rubbing it in Hitler’s face that the Arian race was not superior.But have you heard of Unbeatable Betty?The first woman to compete in the modern Olympic games was at the 1900 Paris Olympic Games (how appropriate for this year 😊). But only 22 competed. That’s 2.2% of the athletes. So while it was “allowed” for women to compete, it wasn’t exactly encouraged. Quite honestly, Betty wasn’t even focused on running until the boy’s track coach at her high school saw her running to catch a train.But just when you think Betty is on her way, she nearly dies in a plane crash.&nbsp;Betty Robinson was the first woman in the world to win Olympic gold, and she’s still the youngest 100-meter champion in Olympic history. Do you think this Paris Olympics will mirror hers?<h3>5. <a data-mce-href="https://www.amazon.com/Wilma-Unlimited-Rudolph-Became-Fastest/dp/0152020985/ref=sr_1_1?crid=2SP7NASA24UPD&amp;dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.oiyJWGzsC6ztOXmWeVqD-J_VHNCSgh80mah4SVqRQHAsMtP4gQUem17Eksr2xcJKYimqzWOo122JsPaRkLiX5zfqTgBBKXNHfcJH5pL6GXtLsXayX3INPk40UONOogBh2SILli-bNJdJCrA7znXyzyoCLgE_629ALuvsS7ZvsBsrG9U04mAikESGvjCHliJjMuf71hHy5tjDK2zR8gN2LqYZiIe9yIHlRTAG3Ko-wUg.Wsi4ytTSionDFM__AsWe6PaPngENkMDtVTr-2-Aa8fY&amp;dib_tag=se&amp;keywords=wilma+unlimited&amp;qid=1719962103&amp;s=books&amp;sprefix=wilma+unlimited%2Cstripbooks%2C177&amp;sr=1-1" href="https://www.amazon.com/Wilma-Unlimited-Rudolph-Became-Fastest/dp/0152020985/ref=sr_1_1?crid=2SP7NASA24UPD&amp;dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.oiyJWGzsC6ztOXmWeVqD-J_VHNCSgh80mah4SVqRQHAsMtP4gQUem17Eksr2xcJKYimqzWOo122JsPaRkLiX5zfqTgBBKXNHfcJH5pL6GXtLsXayX3INPk40UONOogBh2SILli-bNJdJCrA7znXyzyoCLgE_629ALuvsS7ZvsBsrG9U04mAikESGvjCHliJjMuf71hHy5tjDK2zR8gN2LqYZiIe9yIHlRTAG3Ko-wUg.Wsi4ytTSionDFM__AsWe6PaPngENkMDtVTr-2-Aa8fY&amp;dib_tag=se&amp;keywords=wilma+unlimited&amp;qid=1719962103&amp;s=books&amp;sprefix=wilma+unlimited%2Cstripbooks%2C177&amp;sr=1-1" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Wilma Unlimited by Kathleen Krull</a></h3> Wilma Rudolph started this world in tough conditions. Not only was it 1940 in the United States, but she was a little too early. She was just over four pounds at birth, and most people didn’t think she’d live. But most people don’t have a family like Wilma’s. She may have cheated death, but death did its best to get revenge. Wilma seemed to catch everything, and always doubly bad. Finally, a simultaneous bout of scarlet fever and polio twisted her left leg in. No more walking for Wilma.Wilma knew the power of consistent practice far before she ever trained for an Olympics. She massaged her leg and followed the instructions the hospital showed her for her muscles, and one day she took off her heavy steel brace and walked down the aisles of church pews. After that, nothing was going to hold Wilma back.Wilma Rudolph won three gold medals in the 1960 Olympics, some by a clear margin and one by a whisker. And while she may have retired after the Olympics, she still lived her life at the speed of light. As the author writes, “the sickliest child in Clarksville… had become the fastest woman in the world.” The next Olympic trials are starting. Don't expect me to answer any messages for at least four hours! *All links are simply links, I don't get any money if you click them. I just want to make finding great stories as easy as possible for you!* Similar Reads:<a data-mce-href="https://madeitbymaren.com/blog/10-historical-fiction-books-that-are-not-set-in-wwii" href="https://madeitbymaren.com/blog/10-historical-fiction-books-that-are-not-set-in-wwii">10 Historical Fiction Books NOT Set in WWII</a><a data-mce-href="https://madeitbymaren.com/blog/picture-perfect---5-picture-books-that-capture-history" href="https://madeitbymaren.com/blog/picture-perfect---5-picture-books-that-capture-history">Picture Perfect: 5 Picture Books that Capture History</a><a data-mce-href="https://madeitbymaren.com/blog/6-middle-grade-books-about-the-olympics" href="https://madeitbymaren.com/blog/6-middle-grade-books-about-the-olympics">6 Middle-Grade Books About The Olympics</a> Want to work with me? Schedule a <a data-mce-href="https://madeitbymaren.com/book-editing-and-proofreading-services" href="https://madeitbymaren.com/book-editing-and-proofreading-services">free editing consultation</a> with Maren! You're bound to leave with a novel idea...Like what you're reading? Follow me on <a data-mce-href="http://www.goodreads.com/marensommer" href="http://www.goodreads.com/marensommer" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Goodreads</a>!

5 Picture Books on the Best Female Olympians

I now notice that most of the picture books I selected this time are about nature or something of the sort.I did manage to wander outside once this week. I must have encountered a tree. Clearly it was inspiring.So without further ado, here are 5 picture books about those who loved nature more than people!<h3>1. <a data-mce-href="https://www.amazon.com/Jane-Goodall-Little-People-DREAMS/dp/1786032317/ref=sr_1_16?crid=1YDTP4DCCMFK8&amp;dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.KgdNfYTNj7cJYeLmn4N5IWn1qJxX8TcXuVWq50s2rfGH2ZxoCT75tISzjeMoWCmG8K6jjbLBj2ejRBmG_vQA9ryeGFJpFqguBwVKjpGlXAMSsTSqicfBTtM2IUGUbHLXBOB7ZH8Q1osjN8BfrnyN1c6fON1ZdzbyEhtf9HDePwfjTy2JVU4SvNHbORK22RDD81HFpITIhn7L7R3FeoPtNbCUWLm8eSbeDkYrFczI3zGW3DF6D0YbN90qt0mv7_kepJJ-N83cRC_E0dF-vZZrYppaCgu53p_Hz-EufpQk2fM.YWD2CCGKw6gL3Lib20cUY-PihrqQ49t2mRhlF8czf6A&amp;dib_tag=se&amp;keywords=jane+goodall+books&amp;qid=1719590874&amp;sprefix=jane+goodall+book%2Caps%2C412&amp;sr=8-16" href="https://www.amazon.com/Jane-Goodall-Little-People-DREAMS/dp/1786032317/ref=sr_1_16?crid=1YDTP4DCCMFK8&amp;dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.KgdNfYTNj7cJYeLmn4N5IWn1qJxX8TcXuVWq50s2rfGH2ZxoCT75tISzjeMoWCmG8K6jjbLBj2ejRBmG_vQA9ryeGFJpFqguBwVKjpGlXAMSsTSqicfBTtM2IUGUbHLXBOB7ZH8Q1osjN8BfrnyN1c6fON1ZdzbyEhtf9HDePwfjTy2JVU4SvNHbORK22RDD81HFpITIhn7L7R3FeoPtNbCUWLm8eSbeDkYrFczI3zGW3DF6D0YbN90qt0mv7_kepJJ-N83cRC_E0dF-vZZrYppaCgu53p_Hz-EufpQk2fM.YWD2CCGKw6gL3Lib20cUY-PihrqQ49t2mRhlF8czf6A&amp;dib_tag=se&amp;keywords=jane+goodall+books&amp;qid=1719590874&amp;sprefix=jane+goodall+book%2Caps%2C412&amp;sr=8-16" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Jane Goodall by Maria Isabel Sanchez Vegara</a></h3>I think 99% of people know who Jane Goodall is by now, but the series Little People, Big Dreams always has the cutest illustrations that I want everybody to admire.And really, how many people can say that they’ve spent 40 years in the same career AND still love it?From her stuffed gorilla Jubilee to her wildlife activism, Jane Goodall is a lovely bedtime story.<h3>2. <a data-mce-href="https://www.amazon.com/Boy-Who-Grew-Forest-Payeng/dp/1534110240/ref=sr_1_1?crid=1VE8FFSVJOZ49&amp;dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.SXn1u3wjx9G193Mrlr9ELMiKjeAhAp6aeXV-PjqfbgCIiEmoOu_Q6c3atluvBL-CFItx6MM3LHZ_-c_0gVn06zWHqQ6N4C9-wVtIuz264pmPIs42MFVYgu3DzL2YH6QjOotS-FrKpCszgsDpSmXhIEXnIbHUy1PKGSRpLB95YMPTWojmtMcy_HtN-t37JOilYmHGEFrN3wLW3WQAojPohJRb_mGg_rG8NlIYrG2GVhk.6K7ARfWh5o_6ta9UE_dzyP0sA2PUuoVHgHRH16_VUyU&amp;dib_tag=se&amp;keywords=the+boy+who+grew+a+forest&amp;qid=1719591007&amp;sprefix=the+boy+who+grew+a+for%2Caps%2C318&amp;sr=8-1" href="https://www.amazon.com/Boy-Who-Grew-Forest-Payeng/dp/1534110240/ref=sr_1_1?crid=1VE8FFSVJOZ49&amp;dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.SXn1u3wjx9G193Mrlr9ELMiKjeAhAp6aeXV-PjqfbgCIiEmoOu_Q6c3atluvBL-CFItx6MM3LHZ_-c_0gVn06zWHqQ6N4C9-wVtIuz264pmPIs42MFVYgu3DzL2YH6QjOotS-FrKpCszgsDpSmXhIEXnIbHUy1PKGSRpLB95YMPTWojmtMcy_HtN-t37JOilYmHGEFrN3wLW3WQAojPohJRb_mGg_rG8NlIYrG2GVhk.6K7ARfWh5o_6ta9UE_dzyP0sA2PUuoVHgHRH16_VUyU&amp;dib_tag=se&amp;keywords=the+boy+who+grew+a+forest&amp;qid=1719591007&amp;sprefix=the+boy+who+grew+a+for%2Caps%2C318&amp;sr=8-1" target="_blank" rel="noopener">The Boy Who Grew a Forest by Sophia Gholz</a></h3>What can one person really do? Especially when they are a young teenager?Luckily for the world, Jadav Payeng didn’t stop to think about that, he just started planting. Jadav grew up near the Brahmapurtra River in northeastern India. Because of the frequent flooding, the sandbar islands he lived on were slowly disappearing under the water, taking the life-sustaining trees and wildlife with it.Most people would give into despair and curse their government for not doing something. Not Jadav. He asked for a few saplings. And then he planted them.Years later, local authorities discovered Jadav’s forest- all 1,300 acres of it.If one boy can plant so much, how much can you?<h3>3. <a data-mce-href="https://www.amazon.com/Saving-Countryside-Beatrix-Potter-Rabbit/dp/1499809603/ref=sr_1_1?crid=3LRM32NOD7SHM&amp;dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.v7ltGmj9q-jPKDkyj6ev7KwoIWbxC0DEmfB_QfjojzAGQigyp6KyIQlE7x1YnFkq7vuduBh3JpU1NLoQolnWiFxk-fEpPkISb0b13iXUPz9X8QJrnvHoPUI2GxqPXYda6FVqB5JmJLQNzu324jOBFnXkaMezjIBrJKTv3zg-Jb0wekFjlYRM1d3QViYmNnRkCx5WTmWwiUS-eqPLaCbSfK09-p3DSdRYrXmVY3jdywY.Av3lWR7cIIrpTcEHTkxxY9dfRPG1R9YH3KKXwGpL978&amp;dib_tag=se&amp;keywords=saving+the+countryside&amp;qid=1719591159&amp;sprefix=saving+the+countrysid%2Caps%2C345&amp;sr=8-1" href="https://www.amazon.com/Saving-Countryside-Beatrix-Potter-Rabbit/dp/1499809603/ref=sr_1_1?crid=3LRM32NOD7SHM&amp;dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.v7ltGmj9q-jPKDkyj6ev7KwoIWbxC0DEmfB_QfjojzAGQigyp6KyIQlE7x1YnFkq7vuduBh3JpU1NLoQolnWiFxk-fEpPkISb0b13iXUPz9X8QJrnvHoPUI2GxqPXYda6FVqB5JmJLQNzu324jOBFnXkaMezjIBrJKTv3zg-Jb0wekFjlYRM1d3QViYmNnRkCx5WTmWwiUS-eqPLaCbSfK09-p3DSdRYrXmVY3jdywY.Av3lWR7cIIrpTcEHTkxxY9dfRPG1R9YH3KKXwGpL978&amp;dib_tag=se&amp;keywords=saving+the+countryside&amp;qid=1719591159&amp;sprefix=saving+the+countrysid%2Caps%2C345&amp;sr=8-1" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Saving the Countryside: The Story of Beatrix Potter and Peter Rabbit by Linda Marshall</a></h3>The first thing to catch my eye was the beautiful cover, and the pictures get prettier as you read. Hopefully, the illustrations remind you of Beatrix Potter’s drawings.&nbsp;I think most people know about Benjamin Bunny, but most don’t know what Beatrix did with the money she made off of Benjamin Bunny.&nbsp;And if you are about to tell me, “But Maren, haven’t you watched the movie about Beatrix Potter? They tell you at the end.” I stopped watching the movie after her first fiancé died. It made me feel too much and it had to stop.But I digress.&nbsp;Beatrix Potter used her money to buy up farms, creating the beautiful Lake District that England’s National Trust oversees. It looks almost exactly as it did when Beatrix was alive and inspired by it. She also invested in many farmers and small businesses surrounding her farms, and you can read all about it in Saving the Countryside. As if we needed anything else to endear us to Beatrix Potter!<h3>4. <a data-mce-href="https://www.amazon.com/Planting-Stories-Librarian-Storyteller-Belpr%C3%A9/dp/0062748688/ref=sr_1_1?crid=3D6T8ITQFN5XA&amp;dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.Owo08t8sQjHzgv9MUzvqAsMxcLNZN_f3e04Y13voaQlZt41P40rfRFGNEmLTN5DGzQOFZSlp3GATHsBz26i9RootJJ4evHwxt2mm9sn_e4s46vWZ66-_1Y4v2AAnaJEc2UAIyZXKO_uhUfisFjl8JOUsfjUinck--QVd3lUgwE_Se2DkEhxlPBPoarmb1TK8inypPJzCepQRUR8OtQC-b2hvEcbRrKLkVt09VuLBK6s.YqzhESTOfmCPwmR_h6FvqpPhV80VKvzHoHprVFVc85Q&amp;dib_tag=se&amp;keywords=planting+stories&amp;qid=1719591273&amp;sprefix=planting+stori%2Caps%2C465&amp;sr=8-1" href="https://www.amazon.com/Planting-Stories-Librarian-Storyteller-Belpr%C3%A9/dp/0062748688/ref=sr_1_1?crid=3D6T8ITQFN5XA&amp;dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.Owo08t8sQjHzgv9MUzvqAsMxcLNZN_f3e04Y13voaQlZt41P40rfRFGNEmLTN5DGzQOFZSlp3GATHsBz26i9RootJJ4evHwxt2mm9sn_e4s46vWZ66-_1Y4v2AAnaJEc2UAIyZXKO_uhUfisFjl8JOUsfjUinck--QVd3lUgwE_Se2DkEhxlPBPoarmb1TK8inypPJzCepQRUR8OtQC-b2hvEcbRrKLkVt09VuLBK6s.YqzhESTOfmCPwmR_h6FvqpPhV80VKvzHoHprVFVc85Q&amp;dib_tag=se&amp;keywords=planting+stories&amp;qid=1719591273&amp;sprefix=planting+stori%2Caps%2C465&amp;sr=8-1" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Planting Stories by Anika Aldamuy Denise</a>&nbsp;</h3>Pura Belpre didn’t plan on staying in New York, but her sister was getting married there, and once she landed on the shores, she never left.Born in Puerto Rico in 1899, Pura was incredibly bright. She’d started training as a teacher, but her passion was stories. So when the New York Public Library needed a bilingual assistant (she spoke three languages), Pura took a chance.She not only designed her own puppets for story times but became the first author to publish mainstream Latinx storybooks in America. Four of her favorite stories are mentioned in this book. Now I have to see if my own library carries them.<h3>5. <a data-mce-href="https://www.amazon.com/Oliver-Second-Largest-Living-Thing-Earth/dp/1624145779/ref=sr_1_1?crid=36DVFEY534ZEW&amp;dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.C6ENquJ6iedsDQuulALdww.EO_0yeJqQlLG0yazd0HOXypP4AydSKdIrqmoBcR8xD8&amp;dib_tag=se&amp;keywords=oliver+the+second+largest+thing+on+earth&amp;qid=1719591390&amp;sprefix=oliver+the+second+largest+%2Caps%2C375&amp;sr=8-1" href="https://www.amazon.com/Oliver-Second-Largest-Living-Thing-Earth/dp/1624145779/ref=sr_1_1?crid=36DVFEY534ZEW&amp;dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.C6ENquJ6iedsDQuulALdww.EO_0yeJqQlLG0yazd0HOXypP4AydSKdIrqmoBcR8xD8&amp;dib_tag=se&amp;keywords=oliver+the+second+largest+thing+on+earth&amp;qid=1719591390&amp;sprefix=oliver+the+second+largest+%2Caps%2C375&amp;sr=8-1" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Oliver: The Second-Largest Living Thing on Earth by Josh Crute</a></h3>Last summer my family visited the redwoods for the first time. I loved it! Utah is extremely buggy in the summer, so it was surreal to walk through a forest for days and emerge without a single mosquito bite. I wish we’d had enough time to visit the Sequoia National Forest too, because Oliver was the book that inspired the whole trip.Read about Oliver, the second-largest tree in the forest. General Sherman is a fabulous character, but he’s also based on the real tree. Who knows? You might laugh at this book so much you'll plan a road trip out west… Voila! Five new picture books for you to read, with or without children.&nbsp;Maybe make it an immersive experience and read them outside? *All links are simply links, I don't get any money if you click them. I just want to make finding great stories as easy as possible for you!* Other Posts You May Like:<a data-mce-href="https://madeitbymaren.com/blog/picture-perfect---5-picture-books-that-capture-history" href="https://madeitbymaren.com/blog/picture-perfect---5-picture-books-that-capture-history">Picture Perfect: 5 Picture Books that Capture History</a><a data-mce-href="https://madeitbymaren.com/blog/6-picture-books-about-practically-perfect-women" href="https://madeitbymaren.com/blog/6-picture-books-about-practically-perfect-women">6 Picture Books About Practically Perfect Women</a><a data-mce-href="https://madeitbymaren.com/blog/5-picture-books-on-the-best-female-olympians" href="https://madeitbymaren.com/blog/5-picture-books-on-the-best-female-olympians">5 Picture Books on the Best Female Olympians</a> Want to work with me? Schedule a <a data-mce-href="https://madeitbymaren.com/book-editing-and-proofreading-services" href="https://madeitbymaren.com/book-editing-and-proofreading-services">free editing consultation</a> with Maren! You're bound to leave with a novel idea...Like what you're reading? Follow me on <a data-mce-href="http://www.goodreads.com/marensommer" href="http://www.goodreads.com/marensommer" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Goodreads</a>!

Book Blog

10 Novels Inspired by the Greats

6 Middle-Grade Books About The Olympics

Just Edited: DIMENSIONS by Sadie Sanchez

6 Picture Books About Practically Perfect Women

5 Picture Books on the Best Female Olympians

Picture Perfect: 5 More Picture Books that Capture History