OLYMPICS BOOKS FOR CHILDREN
THROUGH TIME: OLYMPICS by Richard Platt, illustrated by Manuela Cappon (Kingfisher £10.99 % £9.99)
THiS history of the olympic Games packs a surprising amount of information into a slim volume, and covers not just the sporting events but the geography and organisation of the Games, too.
The book doesn’t shy away from controversy, focusing on the 1968 Black Power protest in mexico and the 1972 israeli hostage tragedy in munich. An excellent balance of facts and illustration, this is the perfect way to get in training for the festival ahead.
Age 7+
FITTER, FASTER, FUNNIER OLYMPICS by Michael Cox , illustrated by Steve May
(A&C Black £4.99)
USAin BoLT be warned: runners at the ancient Greek olympics who false-started were soundly whipped by officials . . .
This entertaining little paperback is bursting with oddball facts and figures, as well as some genuine advice on how to become an olympic wrestler, pole vaulter or swimmer. (Although American Toby Stevenson might not want readers reminded that his mother made him wear a crash helmet to compete in the 2004 pole vault. But he won silver — safely . . .). Great fun.
Age 6+
I WANT TO WIN
by Tony Ross (Andersen Press £5.99)
THE LiTTLE Princess has a touch of olympic fever and — being a Princess — is used to winning everything at the palace. But at school she has to compete with classmates and finds that being a winner takes effort and sometimes means losing with good grace.
Ross wins gold as usual with his simple message, funny illustrations and the ever- popular Princess who learns her lessons — eventually.
Age 3+
RUNNING FOR GOLD
by Owen Slot
(Puffin £5.99)
AWARD-WinninG sportswriter Slot brings authentic detail and atmosphere to this inspirational story of Danny, who is mocked for his ambition to beat the fastest man in the world — Usain Bolt.
He sacrifices everything for his love of running, but has he got the mental strength to overcome a terrible set-back? The message here is clear — follow your dream but don’t think it’s easy.
Danny’s ultimate reward, which is not predictable, will bring a lump to the throat and make you want to lace up your spikes before it’s too late. Would-be cyclists can also enjoy Slot’s Cycling For Gold. Perfect for reluctant boy readers.
Age 9+