by Mara Rockliff

Illustrated by Elizabeth Baddeley

4 stars

A fantastic and inspiring biography picture book about the career of Billie Jean King. The book focuses mainly on King’s tennis career with a little more about her personal life included in the backmatter.

Throughout the story, King is faced with sexist remarks, questions, and treatment. A great opportunity to talk about unfair treatment (girls having to wear shirts and dresses, women being paid less, biased questions) and standing up against discrimination.

While the text is simple, its story is well-told and engaging. The narration wonderfully captures the excitement of King winning the “Battle of the Sexes”, and its inspirational impact.

Great illustrations with realistic representations of an athlete’s body. Nice themes of working hard, fighting against injustice, and doing whatever it takes to reach your dream.

There is an Author’s Note at the end, which details other aspects of King’s life, including her work with the Women’s Sports Foundation, being one of the first openly gay female athletes, and receiving the Presidential Medal of Freedom.

A great biography for young readers with simple text, engaging illustrations, and an impactful story.

Goodreads