Frank Carlson Library

Following her performance in the 2012 London Olympics, U.S. gymnast Gabrielle Douglas made history as the first African-American to win the all-around competition, in addition to winning gold as a crucial member of the women's gymnastics teams. But if it wasn't for several key moments -- and people in Gabrielle's life, none of this would have ever been possible. In this autobiography, Gabrielle tells her story of faith, perseverance, and determination....

Uncertain they could care for a baby born without legs, Bricker's biological parents gave her up for adoption. In her loving adoptive home, there was just one simple rule: "Never say 'can't.'" This is the incredible story of God working out his plan for her life from before day one. From the challenges of growing up different to holding captive audiences numbering in the tens of thousands, readers will discover that Bricker's wit, wisdom, and no-holds-barred...

"Recipient of Sports Illustrated's Inspiration of the Year Award and one of Time's 100 Most Influential People (2018) "Who is going to tell these little girls that what was done to them matters? That they are seen and valued, that they are not alone and they are not unprotected?" Rachael Denhollander's voice was heard around the world when she spoke out to end the most shocking scandal in US gymnastics history. The first victim to publicly accuse...

"Gabby Douglas made history at the 2012 Olympic Games in London when she became the first ever African American gymnast to win gold in the all-around competition. But the road to winning Olympic gold was not an easy one. Being the best meant Gabby had to work hard and never give up - no matter what"--Page 2 of cover.

"A photo-illustrated biography for early readers on four-time, Olympic gold medalist Simone Biles. Describes her childhood, her early interest in gymnastics, and her success as an Olympic gymnast. Includes a fact sheet with highlighted accomplishments, glossary, books, and websites"--

Simone Biles has won a total of 19 Olympic and World Championship medals, making her the most decorated American gymnast. So how did this incredible athlete rise to the top? In this fascinating introduction, young readers will learn about Biles's life and her many amazing achievements. Each 24-page book in this series of introductory biographies features controlled text with age-appropriate vocabulary and simple sentence construction. The narrative...

"Gymnast Simone Biles was born with a unique set of talents that sent her soaring into the record books. Her extraordinary ability and tireless drive make her accomplishments all but impossible to surpass. Simone Biles may simply be the greatest gymnast of all time."-- Back cover.

"Well before Simone confronted the pressure of the Olympics, she faced real-life challenges as a kid while moving in and out of foster care. With the support and love of her family, she rode an unwavering drive to make history and grew into an incredible role model and activist--not to mention one of the greatest athletes of our time." -- inside front jacket flap. "The seventh book in a middle-grade nonfiction sports series that focuses on today's...