The Olympian

An American Triumph

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Pub Date Oct 25 2010 | Archive Date Sep 01 2012

Description

I dare greatly, and I shall live my life as no ordinary man bound by a game of chance. -John Baxter Taylor Jr. Running is his sacred ritual. As his legs gracefully carry him around the track at the University of Pennsylvania, he feels the wind in his face and freedom at his back. It is 1905, and John Baxter Taylor Jr. is three years away from representing the United States at the Olympic Games in England, where he will become the first African American Gold Medalist in Olympic Game history. Taylor has done everything in his power to live an uncommon life and defy those who dare to stand in his way. As he transforms himself from a skinny boy who licks at the heels of his fellow high school competitors while ignoring racial slurs to becoming one of the best quarter-milers in the world, he beats not only his competitors on the track but also shines academically, eventually earning a degree in veterinary medicine. In this compelling historical novel, the story of one man's extraordinary life led by his unyielding determination to achieve his dream despite seemingly insurmountable obstacles will inspire you to remember that glory does not die, but is instead passed on to the next person willing to carry the torch in their heart.

I dare greatly, and I shall live my life as no ordinary man bound by a game of chance. -John Baxter Taylor Jr. Running is his sacred ritual. As his legs gracefully carry him around the track at the...


Advance Praise

By Lisa Bonner (Los Angeles, CA United States) - See all my reviews This review is from: The Olympian: An American Triumph (Hardcover) Craig captures the reader from the first paragraph and keeps your attention until the last sentence. He truly captures the will to succeed, the determination necessary for John Taylor Baxter Jr. to succeed and become a Gold Medalist. You truly feel as if you are there with the John in his day-to day struggles as Craig eloquently recounts John's path to overcome racism and eliminate other obstacles in order to become the first Black Gold Medalist in Olympic history. This is a must read for anyone interested in the power of the human spirit! You will not be able to put it down.

By Claudine Halliday - See all my reviews This review is from: The Olympian: An American Triumph (Hardcover) The Olympian is truly an inspiring story about the heroism of this amazing American athlete, John Baxter Taylor, Jr. He was a strong and passionate man who had a determination and drive to accomplish and live his dreams regardless of any struggles that he might have faced. It was a captivating book that opened my eyes to his story-one that needed to be told.

By powder1212 - See all my reviews This review is from: The Olympian: An American Triumph (Hardcover) To successfully compete at the highest level against the greatest of odds may seem like an impossible challenge, but as this story is told, you can see exactly who John Baxter Taylor Jr. was and therefore understand how he was able to accomplish such groundbreaking success. Thanks Craig for shining a light on this untold story.

By Barbara Johnson - See all my reviews This review is from: The Olympian: An American Triumph (Hardcover) This book is an excellent lesson in African American history. Prior to reading "The Olympian: An American Triumph" by Craig Williams, I was not at all familiar with John Baxter Taylor, Jr. The book is well written and researched thus providing the reader an enjoyable opportunity to learn about and experience the insurmountable determination of yet another little known African American hero. This is not a book only to be read by those who have an interest in historical figures but for anyone wanting to understand how one can not only overcome adversity but "triumph" in the face of the roadblocks it presents.

By K.A. Graves "mtoakfarm" (New Rochelle, New York United States) - See all my reviews This review is from: The Olympian: An American Triumph (Hardcover) The Olympian: An American Triumph is a great read from start to finish! Craig Williams in his debut has scored a home run with this incredible story. The untold story of this hero comes to life through the Williams' thoughtful and insightful narration. Don't miss this one and be sure to share with family and friends!

By Lisa Bonner (Los Angeles, CA United States) - See all my reviews This review is from: The Olympian: An American Triumph (Hardcover) Craig captures the reader from the first paragraph and keeps...


Available Editions

EDITION Hardcover
ISBN 9781450261050
PRICE 20.48
PAGES 260