Member Reviews

I absolutely loved this book! This is Derrick Barnes' first attempt at a graphic novel and he really hit it out of the park. Barnes said in an interview that he modeled it after Lewis' March series, and it is very reminiscent of that. Dawud Anyabwile's illustrations add to the power of Barnes' words. This book is the very person recounting by Tommie Smith of the 1968 Olympics when he and John Carlos raised their fists in the Black Power symbol when they stood on the podium for their medals. We learn about Tommie Smith's early life and what led him to make such a powerful statement on the world's stage. This book would be a welcomed edition for either a middle or high school collection.

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This is a must-purchase for our non-fiction graphic novel section. Understanding Tommie Smith's childhood and college experiences are essential to understanding how Tommie Smith had the courage to raise his fist as the national anthem played when he won a Gold Medal in Track and Field at the 1968 Olympics. Thank You #NetGalley

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Strong comic biography of Tommie Smith, with particular attention paid to his role as an Olympian, his protest in Mexico City, and the absolute abuse he suffered as a result of standing up for this rights. Very well done and an important story that needs to be shared.

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This was really great. I recognized the cover art from the famous picture taken at the Olympics, but didn't know anything about the larger story. It should be a primary purchase for public libraries.

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Thank you for the privilege of being able to read the ARC.

This is an important story, written and illustrated in a way that is sure to engage the most reluctant readers. This is a fascinating memoir of an extraordinary sportsman, who grew up to win an Olympic gold and break world records despite facing prejudice, only to be shunned and shamed for making a stand for his rights and beliefs. It will be an excellent way in to conversations around race and prejudice, as well as a timely and relevent tale that shows both how far we've come in some regards, but how far we've still got to go in others ...

Contains racial slurs, so as a teacher recommending, that needs to be considered. Obviously it is from the perspective that shows how bigoted and wrong it is, but important to know as a teaching point/CW. I have a group of Yr8 boys I will definitely be recommending this to when it becomes widely available.

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