Kim Chaffee

I'll admit it. I will never utter Kathrine Switzer's simple words: "I like to run." But I do like this book!
It's an amazing story of perserverance, passion and breaking down barriers.

This fascinating, well-researched, non-fiction picture book tells the tale of the first woman to officially run the Boston Marathon. Kathrine was born a runner, but had to fight for every opportunity to do so at a time when running wasn't "fitting for women".

Along with colorful and emotive illustrations, I also enjoyed the fascinating back matter that includes details about Kathrine's efforts to support and encourage women runners as well as little-known facts about the Boston Marathon.

Run, or maybe just walk (like me), to your local bookstore to check out this book!

… (plus d'informations)

Re-read July 2021
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From childhood, Kathrine loved running, but sports were seen as a boy's activity. Nevertheless, she persisted, competing with men's track teams when she was allowed, practicing with them when she wasn't allowed to compete. She ran longer and longer distances and entered the Boston Marathon - the first woman to register and run. A race official physically tried to stop her a couple miles in, but she finished the race - and has run it, with other women, many times since.

Addresses gender inequality and the strides we've made in the past few decades.

Inspiring (literally: my 4.5yo ran up and down the hallway repeatedly). Heard about this book at the SLJ Day of Dialog at Cambridge Public Library in fall 2019. The poster ("Be Fearless") is now taped above the kiddo's bed.
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Re-read March 2023… (plus d'informations)