School Library Journal

This is an excellent source for inspiration, with good examples of people following their dreams. The five athletes included came from various backgrounds and time periods: Gertrude Ederle, swimming star of the 1920s; Louise Stokes and Tidye Pickett, track stars of the 1930s; Julie Krone, successful jockey in the 1980s; and Danica Patrick, winning Indy car racer in the 2000s. Each woman had her own battles to win and obstacles to conquer along the way. Important mentors and influences are cited. Through descriptive detail, Stout has a way of making readers feel as though they are actually in the water or on the muddy racetrack, etc. He makes each tale exciting and suspenseful—even for children who may know the outcome. An extensive “Sources and Further Reading” section includes a reference to YouTube videos of the races of Krone and Patrick. While all subjects other than Stokes and Pickett have had several individual biographies written about them, this book is a unique collection about five inspiring female athletes—and it is a sure winner. A black-and-white photo of each woman in included.—Kate Kohlbeck, Randall School, Waukesha, WI