Sarah Hughes

May 1, 2002
Geared toward slightly older readers, Going for the Gold: Sarah Hughes, America's Sweetheart by R.S. Ashby spotlights the 16-year-old champ in a chapter book format. Similarly, Going for the Gold: Apolo Anton Ohno, Skating on the Edge by Thomas Lang chronicles the 19-year-old speed skater's rise from troubled teen to Olympic icon. Both include full-color photograph insets.

September 1, 2002
Reviewed with Thomas Lang's "Apolo Anton Ohno."

Gr. 4-6. Books in the Going for the Gold series looks at American superstars of the 2002 Winter Olympics. These short, readable biographies give fresh insight into the hard work and discipline needed to make it to the top. In both titles, straightforward, breezy text shows that the athletes live ordinary lives--friends, school, social pressures--like any other teen. But also highlighted are the extraordinary internal drives that keep the athletes moving toward the gold as well as the dedication, hard work, and "hours" of practice that they put in. Also emphasized are the unique relationships these winners have with their family and coaches who are integral parts of their success. Included in each book is a color insert that follows the athlete's career, including shots of the medal ceremonies in Salt Lake City. There's also a useful list of previous medal winners in the athlete's sport, dating back to the 1992 Olympic Games. (Reprinted with permission of Booklist, copyright 2002, American Library Association.)