I realize “Athlete Authors” isn’t an actual genre, but it’s quickly becoming one of my favorite groups of books for children. LeBron James is more than a basketball player. And Malcolm Mitchell is more than a football player. Each have a story to share. Each are real-life, kid-approved examples of what perseverance and effort can do for us when we’re faced with challenges. And, now, each are also authors.
My Very Favorite Book in the Whole Wide World
This is a brand new book by NFL player Malcolm Mitchell. (©2021) I love everything about this book … the story and the illustrations work together perfectly to tell the story of Henley, a boy whose journey toward becoming a reader will be familiar and reassuring to many young children. My favorite part of this book is Malcolm’s letter to the reader: Welcome to the true story of my life as a reader. This letter is personal, honest, and relatable. In it he writes, “Nothing felt lonelier than being the kid in class who couldn’t read well. Deep down inside, I knew I was as smart as everyone else.”
I Promise
LeBron James, three-time NBA champion, wrote this book to motivate kids (actually everyone) to strive for greatness in everything they do. Written in rhyme, it’s loaded with promises that lead to growth and success when kept. Like Malcolm, LeBron also included a personal letter to the reader, sharing how being intentional by setting goals, working hard, and holding yourself accountable are important steps on the journey toward achieving those goals. The letter ends with a phrase that could easily become a personal or class mantra: Remember, nothing is given. Everything is earned. #StriveForGreatness
Happy teaching!
