Joe Louis, My Champion

Written by William Miller · Illustrated by Rodney Pate

A boy's dream to box mirrors his hero's fight for glory.

4.2 Goodreads · 11 ratings

32 pages· 1,943 words· Est. 22 min read· 730L

$11.95Save 5%

In stock. Also at Amazon or Bookshop.

Bookroo's summary

In 1937, young Sammy dreams of boxing greatness, inspired by his hero, Joe Louis. As the world anticipates Louis's historic fight, Sammy learns that true victory lies beyond the ring. Can he embody the perseverance and hope that Louis represents for African Americans? Discover the journey of a boy finding his own path to becoming a champion.

From the publisher

During the mid-1930s, an African American boy who yearns to be a boxer learns the value of determination, perseverance, and his own natural abilities from the example of his hero, world champion prizefighter Joe Louis.It’s the spring of 1937, and anticipation for the heavyweight title fight between Joe Louis and James Braddock is at a fever pitch. Sammy can hardly contain his excitement. He knows his hero, Joe Louis, will soon be the boxing champion of the world. Although he isn’t big and strong, Sammy wants to be a boxer, just like Joe Louis, whose fame and success are a source of great pride and hope for African Americans. Only after Sammy realizes the significance of Louis’s victories in the ring does he understand the true meaning of being a champion. Joe Louis, My Champion is a heartfelt tribute to the first African American to be regarded as a hero by all Americans. Louis’s enduring legacy of determination and perseverance is sure to inspire readers to find and fulfill their dreams.

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