I am Simone Biles (Ordinary People Change the World)
Ordinary People Change the World Series
What’s inside...
Part of Brad Meltzer’s Ordinary People Change the World series, this picture-book biography follows gymnast Simone Biles from her early years in Ohio through her record-breaking Olympic career. Young readers discover how Simone navigated foster care, was adopted by her grandparents in Texas, found gymnastics on an unexpected daycare field trip, and used perseverance, family support, and self-belief to become the most decorated gymnast in history. The book highlights her advocacy for mental-health awareness and her example of speaking up for others, offering an inspiring roadmap for overcoming obstacles and chasing dreams.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
5-9
Length
40 pages
Text complexity
Character compass
Simone Biles
Adria Biles
Ron Biles
Nellie Biles
Discussion points
How did Simone’s family help her succeed?
What lesson did Simone learn from falling off the beam?
Why was it brave for Simone to step back in Tokyo?
What goal would you like to practice every day?
Tip: Role play these questions
Act out a balance-beam pose while talking about balance in life.
Create a sticker chart to track practice of a personal goal.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Hard work beats talent when talent doesn’t work hard.
Explanation: Simone trains daily and turns falls into feedback.
Real-World Application: Practice reading, sports, or music consistently to improve.
Example Lesson: Family can be built by love, not biology.
Explanation: Her grandparents adopt and encourage her.
Real-World Application: Appreciate all supportive people in your life.
Example Lesson: Speaking up for mental health is courageous.
Explanation: Simone prioritizes safety over medals in Tokyo.
Real-World Application: Tell a trusted adult when feeling overwhelmed.
Example Lesson: Celebrate uniqueness.
Explanation: Simone’s small stature becomes an advantage in gymnastics.
Real-World Application: Recognize personal strengths that make you special.