An inspiring picture book biography of the first woman to win a gold medal in track and field. Young readers intrigued by the Summer 2020 Olympics in Tokyo will be inspired by this story. With Joanie Stone’s colorful illustrations and Allison Crotzer Kimmel’s inspirational text, this biography is a reminder of how it takes more than sheer talent to be a champion; an unbeatable spirit of determination and hard work is also needed. At only sixteen years old, Betty Robinson became the first female gold medalist in track and field in the 1928 Olympics and an overnight sensation. She was set for gold again and had her eyes on the 1932 Olympics. Her plans changed forever when a horrible plane crash left her in a wheelchair, with one leg shorter than the other. But Betty didn’t let that stop her. In less than five years, she relearned how to stand, to walk, and finally to run again and try to taste gold once more in the 1936 Olympics in Berlin. Perfect for Women’s History units, as well as for reports on lesser-known sports heroes, Unbeatable Betty includes an author’s note narrating Betty’s later life after her win, as well as a bibliography.

What Kind of Book is Unbeatable Betty

Topics

strong female characters perseverance sports and recreation the Olympics girls and women track and field

Genres

nonfiction biography (auto)biography

Reviews

Lauren Hancock

4.75

This is a great story of resilience and perseverance, well told and well illustrated. Betty Robinson's story is interesting and inspiring, and there's a lot of information here. It might be a bit long for preschoolers, but it's perfect for elementary school readers.

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The Creatives Behind the Book

Author

Allison Crotzer Kimmel

Allison Crotzer Kimmel worked as a teacher before earning a master’s of professional writing degree from the University of Southern California, and she discovered a love of children’s books and joined the SCBWI soon thereafter. Allison now serves as the SCBWI Kern County regional advisor. She lives in Bakersfield, California, with three cute dogs, two even-cuter children, and one handsome husband. Learn more about her at allisoncrotzerkimmel.com.

Illustrator

Joanie Stone

Joanie Stone was born and raised in Virginia, where she still lives today with her husband and young daughter. She is inspired by nature, all things vintage and the real-life characters she sees around her everyday. She hopes her illustrations will inspire kids to pick up a pencil and create their own worlds through stories and art.