Families who loved Rising Above: How 11 Athletes Overcame Challenges in Their Youth to Become Stars by Gregory Zuckerman often look for books with a similar feel. These 20 recommendations were selected for their similarity in style, theme, and reading level.
Reach for this book when your child expresses frustration with their own limitations, whether those are physical, neurological, or simply feeling like they do not have the 'natural' talent to succeed. This collection of 11 short biographies highlights world-class athletes like Stephen Curry and Tim Howard who faced significant childhood hurdles, including poverty, Tourette Syndrome, and physical disabilities. It is a powerful tool for reframing obstacles as opportunities for growth. Through these real-life accounts, children learn that even superstars once felt like outsiders. The book emphasizes grit and the 'growth mindset' over innate ability, making it perfect for middle schoolers navigating self-doubt. It offers a secular, realistic, and highly motivating perspective on how to persevere when the world tells you 'no.'
