I think this was a great read. This teaches us about history and how Muhammad Ali became the champion. This would be a great book to use for a biography day or a project when wanting to learn about Muhammad and how he got where he did. I thought the content was great as well with the illustrations. The illustrations were breath taking. ( )

'' Fly like a butterfly sting like a bee.", are famous words of Muhammad Ali that might be the most recognizable quote form him. This book discusses the rise of Muhammad and how he used his platform of fame to stand up against racism and shatter stereotypes of African American boxers. Even when Muhammad drafted into fighting in a war he did not believe in, he still defied the norm, and stood his ground. For denying the army he was taken to court where they banned from boxing and all of his titles were taken away. After many years of fighting for the right to box in the ring, the day finally came when he won the lawsuit and was allowed back in the ring. Yet, of course the world turned their backs on him and believed he would not win the heavy weight champion of the world after so many years away. Again Muhammad proved everyone wrong and won his championship after having all the odds against him. Muhammad Ali was not just a boxer, he was a poet, advocate against racism, and role model for young African-American athletes around the world. ( )

Capturing the importance and significance of a figure of the stature of Muhammad Ali is never a easy task but Jonah Winter does a wonderful job of weaving the social context in which Ali grew up in, those who preceded him and the significance of his legacy he left behind. The illustrations are a lovely painted palette of dark browns and soft edges, capturing Ali’s handsomeness and his fierce competitiveness. I believe Winter does Ali justice and gives a new generation a glimpse into a incredible man.

Age Appropriateness (Primary, Intermediate, Middle School): Intermediate
Review/Critique: This book tells the story of boxer Muhammad Ali. The story tells a brief description of his life and his transformation from boxer to activist. I think this book gives just enough overview for students to understand the context and time of which Muhammad Ali lived. This book would be considered either historical fiction or a biography. The book is historically accurate and tells the story of a historical figure.
Comments on Use: I would use this book in my classroom when talking about either civil rights and discrimination, or during Black History Month. I think it is really important for students to get a diverse and in depth understanding of history and picture books are a great introduction to that.
Medium: Oil Paint ( )

I really liked this book. I actually read this book to a group of students and they liked it too. It has to do with not only the life of Muhammad Ali, but also the history of African American boxing. It started off with the first African American boxer and leads on to the life of Muhammad Ali. It talks about his boxing career and his leadership he had with the African American people. The book also talks about how he converts to Islam. This book is really great and can teach children about a champion and a great leader. ( )