Book details
Me and Muhammad Ali
Description
A little boy's joyous encounter with his hero, boxing champion and poet Muhammad Ali, is everything he's dreamed of-and more!Like most of the kids he knows, Langston is a huge fan of boxing champ Muhammad Ali. After all, Ali is the greatest for so many reasons-his speed, his strength, his confidence-and his poetry. Langston loves that Ali can float like a butterfly and sting like a bee, and Ali's words give him confidence to spin his own poems. When Langston hears the champ is coming to the local high school, he's ecstatic-this will be a day that will go down in history for him. When the big day arrives, Langston gets a special haircut, and floats like a butterfly to meet his hero-so imagine his disappointment when a guard tries to stop him at the door, saying the event is just for students. Fortunately, Langston has learned a thing or two about fearlessness from the champ and is quick about not taking "no" for an answer. And just like that, a dream comes true for Langston that leaves him feeling wrapped in a warm glow and chanting I'm quick and I'm strong. I'm Black and I'm free. I'm brave and I'm bold, like Muhammad Ali!
Age
3-7
Text complexity
proficient
Length
32 pages
Book in series
#1
Why to read
- Gain Insight into a Legend: Reading 'Me and Muhammad Ali' could provide a unique perspective on the life and legacy of one of the most iconic figures in sports history, Muhammad Ali.
- Cultural Significance: Jabari Asim is known for his thoughtful analysis of African American culture. His take on Muhammad Ali's impact both inside and outside the boxing ring could offer readers a deeper understanding of Ali's role in cultural and political movements.
- Engaging Narrative: Asim's writing is often praised for its engaging and accessible prose. Readers might enjoy the way he weaves together personal anecdotes with historical context.
- Inspiration and Motivation: Muhammad Ali's story is one of resilience, conviction, and charisma. Readers looking for inspiration could find Ali's life story, as interpreted by Asim, to be a powerful motivator in their own lives.