Playing to Win: How Althea Gibson Broke Barriers and Changed Tennis Forever

Playing To Win: The Story of Althea Gibson is a children's picturebook biography of Althea Gibson, an African-American female tennis player from Harlem. Growing up in the 1930s, Althea discovered she had natural talent at tennis - but in that era, tennis was primarily a sport played at wealthy clubs that excluded African-Americans. But Althea refused to give up, and dedicated herself to becoming a record-setting, world-famous sportswoman. "In 1955 the U.S. government asked Althea to become a goodwill ambassador as part of a traveling tennis team. The team of two men and two women journeyed around the world playing tennis. It was the best thing that could have happened for Althea's career. It allowed her to play lots of tennis while touring Southeast Asia." An inspirational tale of a positive role model.

Having seen Althea Gibson play at Forest Hills in the '50's, Ms. Deans' book brings her back to life, albeit in a child-like fashion, it would also appeal to anyone who remembers what a remarkable life Ms. Gibson lived (overcoming many white stereotyped obstacles) and how remarkable she was with a racquet in hand. The illustrations by Mr. Brown are exquisite, as well. Can't wait for the next Karen Deans' book depicting any subject she chooses.

This is a book for ALL Ages. I am a 'Tennis' Loving 'Grannie!, and found that this book was so entertaining, you can just visualize everything and hear the balls as they hit the racket! I like the vernacular for which this book was written in, because it depicted a certain 'era' in her life. This books makes you laugh, as well as bring tears in ones eyes. All in all I think at least every "Grannie" should have it so that they can read it too their grand children. ~Enjoy!