Just Like Jesse Owens
What’s inside...
This collection includes two picture book biographies. The first is about Jesse Owens, an Olympic track and field athlete who overcame racism and adversity to win four gold medals at the 1936 Berlin Olympics. The story is told from the perspective of a young boy who idolizes Jesse Owens and learns to face his own challenges with courage and determination. The second book is an oral history from civil rights icon Ambassador Andrew Young and his daughter Paula Young Shelton, about a pivotal day in Andrew's childhood in the 1930s South. This story, illustrated by Caldecott Honor winner Gordon C. James, explores race relations and the impact it had on Young's life.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
6-8
Length
40 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
How did Jesse Owens' determination help him overcome challenges? Can you think of a time you faced a challenge and how you dealt with it?
Why is it important to treat everyone fairly, regardless of their background or where they come from?
What qualities do you admire most about Jesse Owens? Which of those qualities do you see in yourself?
How do you think Jesse Owens felt when he was competing? Have you ever felt the same way during an important event or competition?
Tip: Role play these questions
Pause at key moments in the story to ask your child how they think Jesse Owens felt during his challenges and triumphs, helping them connect emotionally with the character.
Use real life examples of perseverance and resilience when discussing Jesse Owens' life, to help your child relate the story to their own experiences.
Encourage your child to talk about times they have had to stand up for what is right, drawing parallels to Jesse Owens’ stand against discrimination.
After reading, encourage your child to draw or write about a scene from the book that inspired them, fostering a deeper connection and understanding.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Perseverance through adversity
Explanation: The story demonstrates perseverance by highlighting how the protagonist overcomes significant obstacles, much like Jesse Owens did in his life.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to keep trying and working towards their goals, despite difficulties they might face in school or in their personal lives.
Example Lesson: Importance of hard work
Explanation: The narrative shows the protagonist achieving success through continuous effort and hard work, mirroring the dedication Jesse Owens had towards his athletic career.
Real-World Application: Kids can understand that success often comes from hard work and dedication, whether in academics, sports, or other activities.
Example Lesson: Equality and respect for all
Explanation: The book teaches the importance of treating everyone with respect and equality, reflecting Jesse Owens' legacy of breaking racial barriers.
Real-World Application: This lesson can help children to practice fairness and respect towards all their peers, regardless of background or differences.
Example Lesson: Setting and achieving goals
Explanation: Through the protagonist's journey, the book stresses the importance of setting clear goals and working towards them, inspired by Jesse Owens' goal-oriented approach in his track and field events.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to set personal goals, be they small daily objectives or bigger aspirations, and understand the steps needed to achieve them.
Example Lesson: Courage to stand up for oneself
Explanation: The protagonist shows courage in challenging situations, drawing a parallel to Jesse Owens' bravery in facing the socio-political challenges of his time.
Real-World Application: This teaches children to be brave and to stand up for themselves when facing injustice or bullying in school or other social settings.