Staff Pick
I’ve been in awe of Kathrine Switzer ever since I first saw the now iconic photos of a race official attempting to physically remove her from the course. Her run challenged the belief that women were too frail for sports, leaving a path for others to follow in her footsteps. This is a beautiful and inspirational biography honoring an amazing woman. Recommended By Elizabeth H., Powells.com
Synopses & Reviews
Kathrine Switzer changed the world of running. This narrative biography follows Kathrine from running laps as a girl in her backyard to becoming the first woman to run the Boston Marathon with official race numbers in 1967. Her inspirational true story is for anyone willing to challenge the rules.
The compelling collage art adds to the kinetic action of the story. With tension and heart, this biography has the influential power to get readers into running. An excellent choice for sports fans, New Englanders, young dreamers, and competitive girls and boys alike.
Review
"Chaffee’s effective telling of Switzer’s iconic story emphasizes persistence, ambition, and discipline... Rooney’s bright, straightforward illustrations, mixed media renders dramatic moments small (cutting sneakers to accommodate training-swollen toes) and large (the rage-twisted face of the race official), amplifying the empowering message." Publishers Weekly (Starred Review)
Review
"[Her Fearless Run] is a perfect complement to Pimental’s Girl Running: Bobbi Gibb and the Boston Marathon... Rooney’s mixed-media collage composition and vivid color choice convey both the pure joy of running throughout the seasons and the steely determination in Switzer’s piercing blue eyes." Bulletin of Center for Children's Books
Review
"Students will enjoy reading about this remarkable woman who was determined to prove that girls are just as capable as boys. An empowering story that belongs in all picture book biography sections." School Library Journal
About the Author
Kim Chaffee, a life-long New Englander and debut author, is a former second-grade teacher now focusing on writing and being a mom. She holds a BA in history and a master's in education. In addition to blogging about picture books for parents, teachers, and writers, she runs as well as organizes a local annual race. She lives with her family in New Hampshire.
Ellen Rooney grew up watching the Boston Marathon and now spends her time as an illustrator and designer. She has her BFA from the University of Victoria. A painter, printmaker, collage artist, and debut picture book illustrator, she now resides in British Columbia, Canada, with her husband.