Brooke SimpkinsMar 12, 2026 • 3 min read
Olympic and Paralympic Themed Books for the Classroom
Looking to bring the Olympic and Paralympic spirit into your classroom? These inspiring books introduce students to real athletes, powerful stories of perseverance, and the Champion Mindset that helps people overcome challenges and achieve greatness.
The Olympic and Paralympic Games are more than just competitions... they’re stories of resilience, determination, and the power of the human spirit. From athletes overcoming incredible challenges to historical moments, these books help students realize the Champion Mindset while building excitement for the Games themselves.Here are a few Olympic and Paralympic-themed books perfect for classroom reading, discussion, and inspiration.
Tenacious: Fifteen Adventures Alongside Disabled AthletesBy Patty Cisneros PrevoSynopsis:
This vibrant nonfiction picture book introduces readers to fifteen athletes with disabilities who compete in adaptive sports. From adaptive surfing to wheelchair motocross, the book highlights both the challenges and joys these athletes experience in their journeys toward excellence.Why it’s great for the classroom:
Students gain insight into adaptive sports while learning about resilience, identity, and the power of believing in their abilities.Splash!By Claire CashmoreSynopsis:
Written by Paralympic swimmer Claire Cashmore, this uplifting story celebrates the joy of movement and swimming. Through playful storytelling, young readers are encouraged to explore what their bodies can do and build confidence through sport.Why it’s great for the classroom:
A great introduction for younger students to ideas of confidence, participation, and self-belief.From My Head to My ToesBy Ali RaismanSynopsis:
Two-time Olympic gymnast Aly Raisman shares an empowering message about body confidence and strength. Through rhythmic storytelling, she reminds readers that every part of their body helps them do amazing things.Why it’s great for the classroom:
Encourages positive self-image and appreciation for what our bodies allow us to accomplish.The Girl Who Figured It OutBy Minda DentlerSynopsis:
Written by Paralympian and endurance athlete Minda Dentler, this story follows a young girl who learns to overcome obstacles and pursue her dreams despite challenges. Inspired by the author’s own life experiences, the book celebrates perseverance and problem-solving.Why it’s great for the classroom:
Students learn that setbacks are opportunities to learn, adapt, and keep moving forward.
This vibrant nonfiction picture book introduces readers to fifteen athletes with disabilities who compete in adaptive sports. From adaptive surfing to wheelchair motocross, the book highlights both the challenges and joys these athletes experience in their journeys toward excellence.Why it’s great for the classroom:
Students gain insight into adaptive sports while learning about resilience, identity, and the power of believing in their abilities.Splash!By Claire CashmoreSynopsis:
Written by Paralympic swimmer Claire Cashmore, this uplifting story celebrates the joy of movement and swimming. Through playful storytelling, young readers are encouraged to explore what their bodies can do and build confidence through sport.Why it’s great for the classroom:
A great introduction for younger students to ideas of confidence, participation, and self-belief.From My Head to My ToesBy Ali RaismanSynopsis:
Two-time Olympic gymnast Aly Raisman shares an empowering message about body confidence and strength. Through rhythmic storytelling, she reminds readers that every part of their body helps them do amazing things.Why it’s great for the classroom:
Encourages positive self-image and appreciation for what our bodies allow us to accomplish.The Girl Who Figured It OutBy Minda DentlerSynopsis:
Written by Paralympian and endurance athlete Minda Dentler, this story follows a young girl who learns to overcome obstacles and pursue her dreams despite challenges. Inspired by the author’s own life experiences, the book celebrates perseverance and problem-solving.Why it’s great for the classroom:
Students learn that setbacks are opportunities to learn, adapt, and keep moving forward.
Fearless HeartBy Frank MurphySynopsis:
A vibrant picture book biography of Surya Bonaly, the figure skating champion who backflipped her way into history.Why it’s great for the classroom:
Helps students understand that bravery and heart matter just as much as winning.The Way Champs PlayBy Naomi OsakaSynopsis:
Written by tennis champion Naomi Osaka, this book explores how champions approach both victory and defeat. It encourages kids to stay positive, support their teammates, and keep learning no matter the outcome.Why it’s great for the classroom:
Reinforces sportsmanship, teamwork, and growth mindset.Meet Clara HughesBy Elizabeth MacLeodSynopsis:
This biography introduces readers to Clara Hughes, one of Canada’s most decorated Olympians who competed in both cycling and speed skating. Her story highlights perseverance, mental health advocacy, and dedication to excellence.Why it’s great for the classroom:
Shows students how athletes can use their platforms to inspire change beyond sport.Wei Skates OnBy Nathan ChenSynopsis:
Based on the life of Olympic figure skater Nathan Chen, this story follows a young skater who learns that perseverance and passion are key to improving and achieving big dreams.Why it’s great for the classroom:
Encourages persistence, practice, and learning through challenges.Stand OutBy Greg StewartSynopsis:
Paralympic shot put champion Greg Stewart shares a story about embracing what makes you unique. The book highlights confidence, resilience, and the importance of standing out by being yourself.Why it’s great for the classroom:
Promotes self-acceptance and confidence among students.
A vibrant picture book biography of Surya Bonaly, the figure skating champion who backflipped her way into history.Why it’s great for the classroom:
Helps students understand that bravery and heart matter just as much as winning.The Way Champs PlayBy Naomi OsakaSynopsis:
Written by tennis champion Naomi Osaka, this book explores how champions approach both victory and defeat. It encourages kids to stay positive, support their teammates, and keep learning no matter the outcome.Why it’s great for the classroom:
Reinforces sportsmanship, teamwork, and growth mindset.Meet Clara HughesBy Elizabeth MacLeodSynopsis:
This biography introduces readers to Clara Hughes, one of Canada’s most decorated Olympians who competed in both cycling and speed skating. Her story highlights perseverance, mental health advocacy, and dedication to excellence.Why it’s great for the classroom:
Shows students how athletes can use their platforms to inspire change beyond sport.Wei Skates OnBy Nathan ChenSynopsis:
Based on the life of Olympic figure skater Nathan Chen, this story follows a young skater who learns that perseverance and passion are key to improving and achieving big dreams.Why it’s great for the classroom:
Encourages persistence, practice, and learning through challenges.Stand OutBy Greg StewartSynopsis:
Paralympic shot put champion Greg Stewart shares a story about embracing what makes you unique. The book highlights confidence, resilience, and the importance of standing out by being yourself.Why it’s great for the classroom:
Promotes self-acceptance and confidence among students.
Nadia: The Girl Who Couldn’t Sit StillBy Karlin GraySynopsis:
This beautifully illustrated biography tells the story of Nadia Comăneci, the gymnast who captured the world’s attention when she scored the first perfect 10 in Olympic history. Her story highlights the dedication and determination behind extraordinary achievement.Why it’s great for the classroom:
Demonstrates how passion, discipline, and hard work lead to success.A Sporting ChanceBy Lori AlexanderSynopsis:
Telling the inspiring human story behind the creation of the Paralympics, this biography combines archival photos and full-color illustrations to honor the life of Ludwig Guttmann, whose work profoundly changed so many lives. Why it’s great for the classroom:
Encourages discussions about equity, perseverance, and advocacy.The Golden Girls of RioBy Nikkolas SmithSynopsis:
This story focuses on the paths to glory for these women athletes, how they got their start and rose to meteoric heights in the Rio games. The other swimming and gymnastic teammates are included in the story as well.Why it’s great for the classroom:
A strong example of how teamwork and perseverance can lead to historic achievements.Wilma Unlimited: How Wilma Rudolph Became the World’s Fastest WomanBy Kathleen KrullSynopsis:
Wilma Rudolph overcame childhood illness and physical challenges to become one of the greatest sprinters in Olympic history. After doctors once told her she might never walk again, she went on to win three gold medals at the 1960 Olympic Games.Why it’s great for the classroom:
A powerful reminder that determination and belief can turn obstacles into opportunities.
This beautifully illustrated biography tells the story of Nadia Comăneci, the gymnast who captured the world’s attention when she scored the first perfect 10 in Olympic history. Her story highlights the dedication and determination behind extraordinary achievement.Why it’s great for the classroom:
Demonstrates how passion, discipline, and hard work lead to success.A Sporting ChanceBy Lori AlexanderSynopsis:
Telling the inspiring human story behind the creation of the Paralympics, this biography combines archival photos and full-color illustrations to honor the life of Ludwig Guttmann, whose work profoundly changed so many lives. Why it’s great for the classroom:
Encourages discussions about equity, perseverance, and advocacy.The Golden Girls of RioBy Nikkolas SmithSynopsis:
This story focuses on the paths to glory for these women athletes, how they got their start and rose to meteoric heights in the Rio games. The other swimming and gymnastic teammates are included in the story as well.Why it’s great for the classroom:
A strong example of how teamwork and perseverance can lead to historic achievements.Wilma Unlimited: How Wilma Rudolph Became the World’s Fastest WomanBy Kathleen KrullSynopsis:
Wilma Rudolph overcame childhood illness and physical challenges to become one of the greatest sprinters in Olympic history. After doctors once told her she might never walk again, she went on to win three gold medals at the 1960 Olympic Games.Why it’s great for the classroom:
A powerful reminder that determination and belief can turn obstacles into opportunities.
Bringing the Champion Mindset to LifeStories of Olympians and Paralympians remind students that greatness isn’t just about winning, it’s about perseverance, courage, and believing in what’s possible.By sharing these stories in the classroom, educators can help students see that the Champion Mindset lives in everyday actions: trying again, supporting teammates, and celebrating what makes each person unique.Because every student has the potential to be a champion.
