Serena Williams: A Champion on and off the Court (Rookie Biographies)
Rookie Biographies Series
on Goodreads (9)
What’s inside...
Meet Serena Williams! This Rookie Read-About Biography introduces young readers to Serena Williams, one of many influential figures featured in the series. It covers her journey from playing tennis at age five to becoming one of the greatest female tennis players. The book also highlights her ventures off the court, including her success as an entrepreneur and her dedication to philanthropy.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
4-7
Length
32 pages
Text complexity
Character compass
Serena Williams
Venus Williams
Richard Williams
Discussion points
What qualities do you think make Serena Williams a champion not only in tennis but also in life?
How does Serena Williams show determination and hard work in her journey?
What can we learn from Serena’s attitude towards winning and losing?
How does Serena Williams inspire others, and who inspires you in similar ways?
What are some challenges Serena faced, and how did she overcome them?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to think deeply about the challenges and triumphs of Serena Williams by relating them to their own experiences. Praise their insights and encourage them to think about how they can apply Serena’s lessons in their own life. Use the book as a springboard to discuss broader themes of perseverance, dedication, and humility. Highlight Serena’s role in advocating for equality and justice, discussing the importance of these values.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Perseverance
Explanation: The book details Serena Williams' journey from a young girl practicing tennis in Compton to becoming a world champion, highlighting her dedication and hard work.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by consistently working hard and not giving up on their own goals, whether in sports, academics, or other activities.
Example Lesson: Equality and Respect
Explanation: It discusses Serena's advocacy for gender and racial equality in sports, demonstrating her commitment to fairness and respect for all.
Real-World Application: This teaches children to treat everyone with respect and to stand up for equality, both in school and in their community.
Example Lesson: Handling Adversity
Explanation: Serena's career has had its ups and downs, but she shows resilience by overcoming injuries and defeats.
Real-World Application: Children learn from Serena's example to face challenges without discouragement, understanding that setbacks can be steps towards greater success.
Example Lesson: Importance of Family Support
Explanation: The book highlights the role Serena's family, especially her sister Venus and her parents, played in her life and career, showcasing the importance of a supportive family.
Real-World Application: Kids can appreciate and nurture their family relationships, understanding that family is a crucial support system in achieving personal success.